Kenya is a country with a growing demand for business aviation, as it offers a strategic location, a stable economy, and a diverse market. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Kenya’s domestic passenger traffic increased by 6.4% in 2019, reaching 5.1 million seats. The international passenger traffic also grew by 5.1%, reaching 5.2 million seats. Several well-known aviation hubs include:
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Flight Operations
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is the main hub of Kenya flight operations and the busiest airport in East Africa. It serves Nairobi, the capital and largest city of Kenya, as well as other destinations within and outside Africa. JKIA has scheduled flights to over 50 countries, and is connected by non-stop flights to 45 countries around the world.
JKIA has one terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. Terminal 1 for domestic and regional flights, and Terminal 2 for international flights. Terminal 2 has four concourses: A, B, C, and D. Terminal A handles mainly low-cost carriers, while Terminal B handles mainly full-service carriers. Terminal C handles mainly charter flights, while Terminal D handles mainly cargo flights. JKIA has two runways: Runway 06/24 is 4,200 meters long and 45 meters wide with 15 meters of paved shoulders. It is equipped with an ILS instrument landing system (ILS) for precision approaches. Runway 06/24 is used for take-offs and landings by most aircraft types.
Kisumu International Airport (KISU) Flight Operations
Kisumu International Airport (KISU) is the third-busiest airport in Kenya, the busiest airport in Kenya west of Nairobi, and the country’s fourth international airport. It serves Kisumu, the third-largest city in Kenya and the gateway to Lake Victoria region. KISU has one terminal that handles both domestic and international flights.
KISU has two runways: Runway 03/21 is 3,350 meters long and Runway 15/33 is 1,260 meters long. Both runways are bitumen paved. Runway 03/21 is used for take-offs and landings by most aircraft types. KISU offers various services to passengers such as porters/trolleys/buggies, port health, banking & currency exchange, VIP terminal, smoking areas, airport lounges, lost luggage facilities etc. KISU also provides fuel services to airlines operating at the airport.
Moi International Airport (MIA) Flight Operations
Moi International Airport (MIA) is an international airport in Mombasa, the second-largest city in Kenya. It serves Mombasa and surrounding communities as well as other destinations within East Africa. MIA has two terminals: Terminal A for domestic flights only; Terminal B for international flights only.
MIA has two runways: Runway 03/21 measures 3,350 meters long; Runway 15/33 measures 1,260 meters long. Both runways are bitumen paved. Runway 03/21 is used for take-offs and landings by most aircraft types. Runway 15/33 is used for take-offs by some aircraft types such as Boeing B737-800. MIA offers various services to passengers such as porters/trolleys/buggies etc. MIA also provides fuel services to airlines operating at the airport.
Ground Handling for Efficient Airport Operations at Kenya
Ensure timely ground handling arrangements, particularly when operating to smaller domestic airports or remote areas. Aim for handling requests 72 hours in advance for Airports of Entry (AOEs) and approximately one week for smaller domestic airports. Stay mindful of peak commercial activity periods at major airports, commonly from 0600-1100 local and 1500-2300 local. Although commercial activities hold priority, expect potential minor delays for GA operations during these peak hours.
Optimizing Ground Operations In Kenya’s Major Airport
Navigating Kenya’s aviation landscape requires meticulous planning. Major airports operate 24/7, but closures for maintenance are communicated through NOTAMs. Domestic airports have varied schedules, necessitating advance service requests. With no noise restrictions, Stage 2 aircraft operate freely. Managing fuel involves prior notice and staying updated via NOTAMs. Efficient airport-city transfers require traffic consideration. Runways are well-maintained, and transient GA hangar space needs prearrangement, especially at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (HKJK). Parking complexities are rare except at HKJK, where confirmations are crucial. Random ramp checks highlight the need for onboard compliance. Recent security events heightened scrutiny on GA aircraft, emphasizing strict adherence to local regulations during crew activities.
Fuel Availability In Kenya Airports
Major airports in Kenya boast multiple fuel suppliers, generally offering services during operational hours. However, delays might occur during peak commercial airline activity. At outlying locations, confirmations for fuel and credit availability should be arranged well in advance due to limited options. Coordinate with your fuel supplier to ensure fuel delivery and credit is confirmed. Providing 48-hour notice (minimum 24 hours) for fuel uplift helps avoid potential delays. Having a fuel release confirmation and sharing it with the handler is recommended.
When flying into Kenya, opting for a larger ground handling service provider equipped with agents at various domestic airports proves advantageous, especially for travel to outlying destinations. Such providers offer comprehensive services, arranging full credit for airport and 4th-party services with prior notice. Their support extends to coordinating ancillary services like local transport, in-flight catering, and additional security measures.
Uncover tailored, comprehensive flight support services designed for Kenya’s International Airports with Just Aviation. For optimized flight planning, cost-effective fuel services, short-notice permits, and reliable ground support, reach out to us at occ@justaviation.aero. Contact us now for seamless trip planning in Kenya, ensuring a hassle-free experience at Kenya’s International Airports. Trust Just Aviation for top-quality services at competitive prices.