Retailers to receive passenger boost at Nairobi

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The Kenyan government unveils the first phase of an infrastructure programme that will double the airport's capacity

Retailers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport could see significant revenue increases over the next two years as Kenya Airports Authority has revealed plans to reorganise the airport. The project is set to double the airport's passenger capacity.

Kenya Airports Authority has started the project which will revamp the main terminal building and move domestic operations to the old Embakasi airport building. Departing and arriving international passengers will also be separated.

The programme will enable the airport to almost double its passenger capacity from current volumes of 3.2m a year to 6m. An additional 13 aircraft parking lots will be created and the transfer of domestic flights to Embakasi airport would free terminal three to create additional lounges at Jomo Kenyatta. The strategy is being implemented to handle the significant passenger growth recorded over the past years.

Kenya's airport infrastructure is set for further investment over the next year as service charges paid from the country's airports to the Government's Revenue Authority will be given to Kenya Airports Authority. The transfer of funds, which will switch from the next financial year, is expected to help refurbish the airports and maximise passenger comfort.