states. >> nairobi to new york in 15 hours. it's the first direct flight bekenya and the united states and takes off sunday. it's an important milestone for kenya airways that was on the brirng on bank raems. >> an indication we're no longer in significant trouble. >> reporter: it's difficult for others outside this country to appreciate one flight to new york is a national event. >> as kenya airways and for nairobi to become a hub of africa. >> reporter: the 787 dreamliner that will serve this is route. one of the key pilots -- >> i worked my way up to a first officer and then a captain working up to the bigger aircraft as i went along. >> but now you're captain on the 78. >> yes, i am.