When you regularly fly long-haul, you develop favourites. But this time, flying to Southern Africa, we chose something different: Kenya Airways. We decided to fly business class from London Heathrow through Nairobi, before finally arriving in Johannesburg.

So, Why Did We Choose Kenya Airways?

Because value matters. Routing matters. And four unnecessary extra flying hours via the Middle East matter. Kenya Airways offered a business class fare that was significantly more competitive (around half!), with a sensible connection in Nairobi rather than an eastbound detour before coming back down into Africa. 

The Heathrow Experience

Departing from Terminal 4 at Heathrow Airport, the experience began smoothly. Kenya Airways uses the Plaza Premium Lounge, which is not exclusive but perfectly comfortable. Comparable to a BA lounge, though it must be said Qatar’s Heathrow lounge remains in a different league entirely.

Check-in was efficient. Security was swift. And within minutes, we were browsing duty-free and answering emails with a glass of something cold in hand.

Onboard: Space Over Suites

The aircraft cabin isn’t cutting-edge. If you’re expecting sliding doors and private suites, this isn’t the product for you. But here’s where I may be controversial… I don’t always love the new “mini suite” trend.

Yes, Qatar’s Qsuite is impressive, but sometimes those enclosed spaces can feel compartmentalised and slightly claustrophobic. Kenya Airways’ 2-2-2 configuration felt open and airy. We always choose the middle pair of seats, perfect for couples, allowing both of us easy access without climbing over anyone.

The seats convert to fully flat beds and were genuinely comfortable. No gimmicks. Just solid, functional comfort.

The Unexpected Details: Dining & Service

What surprised me most was the presentation. Kenya Airways clearly loves its linens. Proper embroidered napkins. Real tablecloths. This created a real sense of occasion at 35,000 feet, and it felt refreshingly traditional.

Dinner was served at a set time, rather than dine-on-demand, which suited our 5:30pm departure perfectly. The starter of feta, hummus and salad was fresh and well-balanced, and our mains were genuinely excellent. I chose a ricotta-and-spinach-stuffed tortilla, and Brian opted for butter chicken. We were also graciously presented with dessert from a trolley featuring a plum tart, a cheese board, and fruit. We decided on the fruit. 

Breakfast before landing was simple but good. And the coffee? Surprisingly good…  something I rarely say about airline breakfasts.

Overall, the service throughout was warm, calm and quietly professional. Not overly theatrical, not intrusive, just genuinely hospitable.

The Sustainability Question

There is, however, one issue that cannot be ignored. The use of single-use plastic onboard was excessive.

Water is served in small plastic bottles, and I went through several over the flight, despite starting with my own reusable bottle. Add to that plastic lids, butter portions, and jam containers… it all felt a bit outdated.

In 2026, sustainability is no longer optional. It’s expected. This is an area where Kenya Airways must improve. It doesn’t undo the experience, but it certainly does matter.

Nairobi & Beyond

Our 2.5-hour connection at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was straightforward. The airport itself is older, though clean. The Pride Lounge was okay, particularly the made-to-order breakfast and excellent barista coffee. Showers and rest areas are available, though busy.

The onward flight to Johannesburg, operated on a smaller aircraft, was surprisingly comfortable for a regional sector. We slept most of the way, which is always the best endorsement.

The Verdict

Kenya Airways business class isn’t about flash. It’s about:

  • Smart routing.
  • Competitive pricing.
  • Good food.
  • Comfortable flat beds.

Would I choose it again? Yes! We’re actually flying with them again when we travel to Mauritius in May, since the routing is efficient and the price was good.

In my opinion, it’s an underrated option that deserves serious consideration for Africa-bound travellers.

You can read about my first two nights in South Africa after arriving in Johannesburg here.