THE first non-stop flight from the UK to Rwanda will launch at Gatwick Airport on Friday.

It is being run by RwandAir which describes Rwanda as one of the fastest growing tourism destinations in Africa.

It will operate three times a week from Gatwick to the Rwandan capital Kigali,.

The flights, on a new Airbus A330-200, will offer travellers business, premium economy and economy cabins on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

The flight time is eight hours 40 minutes with return fares starting from £372.

British travellers are among the top five nationalities to visit Rwanda, which welcomed 1.3 million people last year.

They’re attracted by the incredible scenery, the opportunity for a unique experience visiting mountain gorillas and big game safari.

The recent arrival of black rhinos in the country means that Rwanda is now offering one of the best safari experiences in Africa.

Belise Kariza, chief tourism officer at the Rwanda Development Board, said: “Rwanda has seen a transformation in recent years and is now becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for premium travellers.

“With the new non-stop RwandAir flights to Kigali, and the opening of several premium lodges, Rwanda will be making a big impact as a must-visit country.” ?Guy Stephenson, Gatwick Airport chief commercial officer, said: “This new service makes the adventure of a lifetime in the heart of Africa a real possibility for more people than ever before, be they spotting gorillas in the wild, game animals on safari or visiting the beautiful tea plantations.

“Rwanda is the latest long haul destination Gatwick serves and we know proudly boast more than 50 long haul routes in total – a claim few other international airports can make.

“Only last week Gatwick became the world’s top low cost airport, a ranking helped by our growing low cost long haul services to North America and the Far East.”