Yes, you can fly direct to Nairobi from the UK via two primary carriers. Kenya Airways and British Airways both operate daily non-stop service from London Heathrow (LHR) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Kenya Airways typically uses the Boeing 787 Dreamliner for this route, while British Airways often utilizes the Boeing 777 or 787. The flight time is approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes heading south and slightly longer on the return journey due to headwinds. In 2026, Kenya Airways has also expanded its codeshare agreements, making it easier to book these direct flights from regional UK airports with a quick connection in London. While there are many "one-stop" options via hubs like Dubai (Emirates) or Doha (Qatar), the LHR-NBO direct route remains the gold standard for business travelers and safari-goers looking to maximize their time in Kenya without a lengthy layover in the Middle East.
Yes, you can fly direct from the UK to Nairobi.
There are non-stop flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).
The primary airline operating this route is: Kenya Airways – The national carrier offers daily flights. British Airways also operates daily non-stop services on this route.
Key details: Flight time: Approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes. Airports: Flights depart from London Heathrow (LHR). A few may also depart from London Gatwick (LGW) at certain times of the year, so it’s best to check when booking. Destination: All direct flights arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Nairobi’s main international airport.
Important Note: There are no direct flights from other UK airports like Manchester, Birmingham, or Glasgow. Travelers from those cities will need to connect through London or another European hub.
For the most current schedule and to book, you should check the airlines’ websites or a flight comparison site.