Mombasa Air Safari's first DHC-8-100, 5Y-MJC (msn 341), has begun commercial services, between Nairobi Wilson and the Masai Mara National Reserve as well as coastal services to Ukunda, Mombasa, and Malindi, according to ch-aviation research.

The Kenyan safari specialist had taken delivery of the aircraft in September last year after purchasing it outright from Avmax Aircraft Leasing, with plans for a second of the type in the near future.

ADS-B data shows that the 32.8-year-old aircraft relocated from Mombasa to Nairobi Wilson on December 19, from which it was first deployed on December 26 to Maasai Mara Serena, Maasai Mara Keekorok, and Ukunda/Diani Beach. It now also serves Amboseli, Maasai Mara Angama, Maasai Mara North, and Ol Kiombo.

The aim of the introduction of the Dash 8 is to enhance passenger comfort, as the airline has long relied on its fleet of eleven Cessna (single turboprop) 208 Grand Caravans for short, unpaved runways. At least one more of the type is planned to achieve the necessary economies of scale.