Visitors intending to reach the official website should visit kaa.go.ke
In February, ALG, a global transport and infrastructure consulting firm, submitted a comprehensive report to the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), providing advisory services on the construction of a new passenger terminal at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The report outlined the pressing need for expanded infrastructure due to projected increases in passenger and cargo traffic. ALG’s findings provided key insights into the future development and management of JKIA, recommending a phased investment plan and a long-term public-private partnership (PPP) model.
1. Current Infrastructure and Challenges
ALG’s report highlighted several bottlenecks at JKIA:
- Single Runway Capacity: Currently, the airport operates with a single runway, handling 30 air transport movements per hour (ATM/h). This capacity is nearing saturation, and the airport is projected to need a second runway by 2035.
- Terminal Capacity: JKIA’s terminal infrastructure, including T1E and T2, was identified as insufficient for future demand. T1E and T2 were built in 2015 as temporary terminals and will need to be decommissioned. Furthermore, the terminals’ lack of interconnected baggage handling systems negatively affects passenger experience, especially in making connections.
2. Recommended Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
ALG’s analysis proposed that KAA invest in a new passenger terminal through an airport concession lasting up to 30 years. Although ALG acknowledged that a PPP would be a logical approach to financing and constructing the necessary infrastructure, it recommended using an open tendering process.
- Open Tendering: The report emphasized that an open tender process is best international practice and aligns with Kenyan PPP regulations. This approach would ensure transparency and allow for competitive bidding, giving KAA the best options for selecting an experienced private operator for the project.
3. Proposed Development Phases
ALG’s proposed investment plan for JKIA is divided into four key phases:
Phase 0 (To be completed by 2026)
- Runway and Taxiway Enhancements: The first phase involves constructing rapid exit taxiways and a partial parallel taxiway to improve runway throughput. Additionally, new aircraft stands will be built to accommodate increased passenger and cargo traffic.
- Terminal Refurbishment: Terminals T1E and T2 will be refurbished to extend their lifespan until the new terminal is operational.
Phase 1 (Completion by 2030)
- New Terminal Building: A new multi-level terminal with enhanced parking, access roads, and apron areas will be built. The terminal will house Kenya Airways, Jambojet, and their partner airlines, improving connectivity and reducing connection times.
- Decommissioning of T1E and T2: After the new terminal is completed, T1E and T2 will be decommissioned to free up space for future expansions.
Phase 2 (Completion by 2037)
- Second Runway Construction: A second runway and associated taxiways will be built to handle the increased traffic. The new runway will allow independent operations from the existing one, ensuring smoother and faster air traffic flow.
- Terminal Expansion: The existing terminal will be expanded to compensate for the lost capacity from decommissioning T1E and T2.
Phase 3 (Completion by 2042)
- Further Terminal Expansion: The new terminal piers and apron will be expanded, accommodating future passenger growth and positioning JKIA as a key regional and international hub.
4. Scalability Beyond 2055
ALG’s report also considered the long-term scalability of the airport. The plan allows for additional satellite piers and a third parallel runway in the distant future. These expansions are intended to handle the forecasted growth in passenger numbers and ensure JKIA’s infrastructure remains ahead of demand.
5. Capital Investment Requirements
The estimated capital investment required for the entire development plan is $1.63 billion (USD). This includes:
- Airfield Expansion: Construction of the second runway and related infrastructure.
- Terminal Enhancements: New terminal construction and upgrades to existing facilities.
- Access Roads and Parking: Improving access and parking to facilitate easier passenger movement.
Conclusion: ALG’s Recommendations for JKIA’s Future
Based on ALG’s findings, the construction of a new passenger terminal building at JKIA is essential to meet future demand. The recommendation to pursue an airport-wide concession through a transparent open tender process aligns with best international practices and Kenyan regulations. By adopting a phased development approach, JKIA can systematically address capacity issues, modernize its infrastructure, and secure its position as a key aviation hub in Africa.