Residents of Turkana have expressed frustration and resignation after Fly Skyward Express, the main airline serving Lodwar, announced an increase in air ticket prices effective April 1, 2026, across all its routes.
In a notice to customers, the airline attributed the fare hike to rising global fuel costs and its continued dependence on internationally sourced fuel.
The announcement has sparked a wave of reactions online, with many residents saying they will now opt for road transport, particularly Liban and Tosha coaches, as cheaper alternatives between Lodwar and Nairobi.
Among the reactions, Shafi Nur Yalaye said residents do not need “very expensive airline tickets” as long as Tosha and Liban coaches are available. Lucy Ebenyo described Liban as the most efficient and convenient option to Nairobi, while Sera Ekiru Muya noted that the road to Turkana is now in better condition, making road travel more appealing
“We have no need of very expensive airline tickets, as long as we have Tosha and Libaan coaches. 💯🫰” Shafi Nur Yalaye
“Tell them to try Liban very smart bus 🥰 na kama sio Liban bus then ni Liban bus tu” Ikoku Alo Mogilla.
“Which residents? Liban is the deal to Nairobi ,very efficient and convenient.” Lucy Ebenyo
“Our Road now is good, by road we will get to Turkana” Sera Ekiru Muya
Some residents also challenged local leaders to explore partnerships with other airlines. Jane Santy said the county should engage additional carriers such as Jambojet to encourage fair pricing, while Jane Rain echoed calls for broader opportunities in the aviation sector.
“Let the county ditch the Monopoly of one airline (skyward) and engage other airlines like jumbo jet and others for us to get a good price” Jane Santy
“The County should explore other opportunities of engaging other airlines….” Jane Rain.
The sentiment online was summed up by several commenters who declared, “Liban sasa tunakuja,” signalling a likely shift by many travellers from air to road transport in response to the new fares.
“That’s why we need that Railway like yesterday….” Nangiro bi Nancy
“Liban office will be relocated to the Airport, kama skyward itakuwa noma” Hon Achukz Douglas
“Liban ongeza ingine tena” Sally Sally.
“Liban sasa tunakuja,” Etop Akide
“Liban ikitoka asubuhi saa moja by saa nne itakuwa Nairobi kuliko kupotesa 11k yko kw ndege na bado kurudi” Ipaun Paul
“Tuko innocent 💪💪💪💪Tosha💥💥💥mambo yote…..” Wayui Harun
“Liban is there for us, ” John Nyaga
“Liban is another better option for the Travellers. Faster and comfortable.” Timothy Bosire
