Great airports don’t just happen — they are built on vision, collaboration, and careful planning. 🛫
Yesterday, the Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO) participated in a stakeholder briefing convened by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), in collaboration with Dar Al-Handasah, the lead consultant spearheading the development of the JKIA and Wilson Airport Masterplans.
The session brought together a diverse group of industry stakeholders to discuss the future of two of Kenya’s most critical aviation hubs — Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Airport. At the heart of the briefing was a comprehensive presentation of the scope of work and the preliminary direction the masterplans are taking.
As a key voice representing operators in the aviation industry, KAAO contributed to the dialogue by sharing insights on the current challenges faced by operators and the pressing need for a masterplan that not only addresses existing gaps but also prepares our infrastructure for future growth. Discussions covered a wide array of strategic areas including infrastructure modernization, capacity expansion, efficient airside and landside operations, safety enhancements, passenger experience, and long-term sustainability.
Stakeholders provided feedback on several priority areas, such as apron and runway configurations, the removal of derelict aircraft, airspace efficiency, cargo and general aviation capacity, and the integration of new technologies. The conversation underscored the need for masterplans that are realistic, adaptable, and inclusive of the operational dynamics experienced daily at both JKIA and Wilson.
KAAO emphasized the importance of engaging those who use these airports every day — from commercial operators and training organizations to ground handlers and maintenance providers. Their input is invaluable in ensuring that infrastructure investments are grounded in practical, on-the-ground realities.
We believe that a truly effective masterplan is not just a technical document — it is a strategic tool that must align with national development goals, foster regional connectivity, support economic growth, and improve service delivery across the board. It must also prioritize sustainability, ensuring that environmental and community impacts are considered alongside economic and operational goals.
As these masterplans take shape, KAAO reaffirms its commitment to being an active partner in the process. Our role is to ensure that the voices of our members are heard, and that the final outcomes reflect a shared vision for Kenya’s aviation future — one that is forward-looking, resilient, and built for growth.
We thank KAA and Dar Al-Handasah for organizing this important engagement and for opening up the planning process to collaborative dialogue. Together, we can reimagine our airports not just as gateways, but as enablers of opportunity, innovation, and world-class aviation services.
