Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is set to undergo a transformative facelift with the addition of a new terminal aimed at accommodating 20 million travelers annually. This expansion is a key component of JKIA’s Medium Term Investment Plan, spanning three years, which aims to bolster capacity, enhance service standards, and elevate competitiveness on the global stage.
Part of the ambitious plan includes the expansion of runways and aircraft parking facilities to optimize landing and take-off processes, ultimately reducing congestion and improving safety. By 2040, parking bays are expected to increase from nine to 21, with cargo throughput projected to soar to 741,000 tonnes.
Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar underscored the strategic importance of expanding airline destinations, emphasizing the broader economic benefits for tourism, business, and cultural exchange. The aviation sector is pivotal to Kenya’s economic development, with projected annual traffic growth of 4.0%, aiming to accommodate 42.1 million passengers by 2050.
JKIA, commanding 80% of network passengers and 90% of cargo business in Kenya, is equipped with capabilities to process 35 aircraft per hour. Its strategic location as Africa’s crossroads contributes significantly to its role as a gateway into the continent, welcoming over 8 million passengers annually.
In a move to enhance service offerings, plans are underway to launch a special terminal catering exclusively to VIPs, responding to demands from global corporations’ CEOs and high-end clientele. This initiative includes dedicated premium lounges within the terminal, aimed at elevating the travel experience for elite travelers visiting Kenya.
The recent approval of the National Aviation Policy by the Cabinet underscores Kenya’s commitment to maximizing the aviation sector’s contribution to national growth. The policy aims for global and regional alignment, ensuring regulatory consistency and meeting stakeholder expectations for sustainable aviation development.
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