Jomo Kenyatta International Airport [JKIA] – GUIDE

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Kenya, located in Embakasi, a suburb of Nairobi. It serves as the main gateway to the country, connecting Kenya to various international destinations. The airport is situated at a latitude of -1.319167 and a longitude of 36.9275, with its IATA code being NBO and its ICAO code being HKJK.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is a modern and well-equipped airport, with a capacity to handle up to 7.5 million passengers annually. The airport has two terminals, with Terminal 1 serving domestic flights and Terminal 2 serving international flights. The airport offers a range of facilities and services, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and currency exchange services, among others.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has been undergoing a series of upgrades and expansions in recent years, aimed at improving its capacity and efficiency. These upgrades include the construction of a new terminal, Terminal 4, which is expected to increase the airport’s capacity to handle up to 12 million passengers annually. With its convenient location and modern facilities, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is an important hub for travel to and from Kenya.

HISTORY

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is the largest airport in Kenya and serves as the primary gateway to East and Central Africa. The airport is located in Embakasi, a suburb of Nairobi, and covers an area of 4,500 acres. Discussions about building the airport date back to 1945, but it was not until 1958 that Embakasi Airport was opened to commercial traffic.

Originally named Embakasi Airport, the airport’s name was changed in 1978 to honor Jomo Kenyatta, the first President and Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya. Nairobi Embakasi Airport was then closed on March 14, 1978, and paved the way for the current Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Since its inception, the airport has undergone several expansions and upgrades to meet the growing demand for air travel in the region. In 2019, the airport handled over 7 million passengers, making it the seventh busiest airport in Africa in terms of passenger traffic.

Today, JKIA is a modern and well-equipped airport with state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure. It is home to over 40 passenger airlines and 25 cargo airlines, making it a vital hub for air travel in Africa.

LOCATION AND ACCESS

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is located in Embakasi, a suburb of Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. The airport is situated approximately 15 kilometers southeast of the city center and is easily accessible by road.

Travelers can reach the airport by taxi, matatus (minibuses), or private car. Taxis are readily available throughout Nairobi and can be hailed from any location. Matatus are a popular mode of transportation in Kenya and are an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers. However, they can be crowded and uncomfortable, and it is important to ensure that the matatu is licensed and in good condition before boarding.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport provides ample car parking facilities for travelers who prefer to drive themselves. The airport has both short-term and long-term parking options, with rates varying depending on the duration of the stay. The parking lots are secure and well-lit, providing travelers with peace of mind while they are away.

Overall, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is conveniently located and easily accessible, making it a popular choice for both domestic and international travelers.

TERMINALS AND FACILITIES

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is the largest aviation facility in Kenya and the busiest airport in East Africa. The airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which are connected by a walkway.

Terminal 1 is the older of the two terminals and primarily serves domestic flights. It has four boarding gates, A1 to A4, and is equipped with basic facilities such as restaurants, duty-free shops, and currency exchange counters. Terminal 1 also has a VIP lounge that is accessible to passengers with premium tickets.

Terminal 2 is the newer and larger terminal, capable of handling both domestic and international flights. It has 19 boarding gates, C1 to C19, and is equipped with modern facilities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges. Terminal 2 has two lounges, the Kenya Airways Simba Lounge and the Turkish Airlines Lounge, which are accessible to passengers with premium tickets or membership cards.

Security at JKIA is managed by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and is taken seriously. Passengers are required to undergo security screening before entering the boarding areas. The KAA security section also handles lost and found property. Passengers who lose items are advised to check with this section.

Facilities at JKIA are designed to cater to the needs of passengers. The airport has a medical center that provides basic medical services, a prayer room for people of different faiths, and a children’s play area. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and there are charging stations for electronic devices.

In conclusion, JKIA is a modern airport with state-of-the-art facilities that cater to the needs of passengers. The two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, are equipped with basic and modern facilities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges. Security at JKIA is managed by the KAA and is taken seriously. The airport also has facilities such as a medical center, a prayer room, and a children’s play area that cater to the needs of passengers.

AIRLINES AND DESTINATIONS

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is the largest airport in Kenya and is located in Nairobi. It serves as a hub for several local and international airlines, connecting passengers to various destinations around the world.

LOCAL AIRLINES

Kenya Airways, the flag carrier of Kenya, is based at JKIA and offers both domestic and international flights. Fly540 and Jambojet are two other local airlines that operate from JKIA and provide domestic flights to various destinations within Kenya.

African Express Airways is another local airline that operates from JKIA. It offers both domestic and international flights to destinations such as Somalia, South Sudan, and Uganda.

INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES

JKIA is a major hub for international airlines, connecting passengers to over 50 countries around the world. Some of the international airlines that operate from JKIA include:

• Air France: Offers flights to Paris, France.
• Emirates: Offers flights to Dubai, UAE.
• Ethiopian Airlines: Offers flights to various destinations in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
• Qatar Airways: Offers flights to Doha, Qatar.
• Turkish Airlines: Offers flights to Istanbul, Turkey.
• KLM: Offers flights to Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• South African Airways: Offers flights to Johannesburg, South Africa.
• RwandAir: Offers flights to various destinations in Africa and the Middle East.
• Precision Air: Offers flights to various destinations in Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Passengers can also connect to other international destinations through these airlines’ hubs. JKIA is well-connected to various destinations in Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, making it a popular choice for travelers.

AIRPORT OPERATIONS

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is the main airport in Kenya, located in the Embakasi suburb, 15 kilometers southeast of Nairobi’s central business district. The airport has a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.

The airport’s ICAO code is HKJK, and its IATA code is NBO. JKIA has one runway, which is 4,900 meters long and can handle large aircraft such as the Airbus A380. The runway is designated 06/24 and is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Approach Lighting System (ALS).

JKIA operates 24/7 and has an Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS) that provides information about the airport’s weather conditions, runway in use, and other critical information to pilots. The airport’s elevation is 1,624 meters above sea level, and it operates in East Africa Time Zone (EAT).

JKIA is a Category 9 airport, which means that it can handle all types of aircraft, including the largest, such as the Antonov An-225. The airport has a capacity of handling up to 7.5 million passengers annually. JKIA is also home to the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), which manages and operates all airports in Kenya.

In terms of the airport’s type, JKIA is a civil airport that serves both domestic and international flights. The airport has a range of facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and other amenities that cater to the needs of passengers. JKIA also has a cargo terminal that handles both domestic and international cargo.

Overall, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is a modern and efficient airport that provides excellent services to its passengers and airlines. Its strategic location in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, makes it an essential gateway to the rest of the country and the East African region.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is located in Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. Nairobi is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. There are several attractions near the airport that visitors can explore before or after their flight.

NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK

Nairobi National Park is located a short drive from Jomo Kenyatta airport. It is one of a kind and is known for being home to black rhinos, zebras, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, ostriches, baboons, vultures, crocodiles and various species of antelope. Visitors can go on game drives and guided walks to explore the park and see the animals up close. The park is open daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.

BEACH AREAS

Mombasa is a popular beach destination in Kenya, located on the coast of the Indian Ocean. Visitors can take a short flight from Jomo Kenyatta airport to Mombasa and enjoy the beautiful beaches, warm weather, and clear blue waters. There are several resorts, hotels, and restaurants in Mombasa that cater to tourists.

NAIROBI CITY TOUR

Visitors can take a city tour of Nairobi to explore the city’s history, culture, and landmarks. The tour includes a visit to the Nairobi National Museum, Uhuru Park, and the Karen Blixen Museum. Visitors can also see the Nairobi skyline from the top of the Kenyatta International Conference Centre.

GIRAFFE CENTRE

The Giraffe Centre is located in the Langata suburb of Nairobi, about 20 minutes from Jomo Kenyatta airport. Visitors can get up close and personal with giraffes and even feed them. The centre also has a nature trail and a gift shop.

DAVID SHELDRICK WILDLIFE TRUST

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a conservation organization that rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephants and rhinos. Visitors can visit the trust’s Nairobi nursery and see the baby elephants up close. The nursery is open daily from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Overall, there are several attractions near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport that visitors can explore. From the Nairobi National Park to the beaches of Mombasa, there is something for everyone.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is one of the busiest airports in East and Central Africa, serving millions of passengers each year. As such, it’s important to have accurate and up-to-date contact information in case you need to get in touch with the airport for any reason. Here’s what you need to know:

PHONE

If you need to contact JKIA by phone, you can call their main switchboard at +254-020-6822111/6611000/6612000. This number can be used for general inquiries, as well as for contacting specific departments within the airport.

EMAIL

For non-urgent inquiries or requests, you can email JKIA at info@kaa.go.ke. This email address can be used for a variety of purposes, including asking questions about airport services, making suggestions or complaints, or requesting information about flights or travel.

APP

JKIA has a mobile app that can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play. The app provides a range of useful features, including real-time flight information, airport maps, and information about airport services and amenities. The app also allows passengers to book parking, order food, and access exclusive discounts and offers.

In addition to these contact options, JKIA also has a presence on social media, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. These channels can be used to stay up-to-date on airport news and events, as well as to ask questions or provide feedback.

ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the largest airport in Kenya and serves as the primary gateway for international travelers visiting the country. The airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which handle both domestic and international flights.

ARRIVALS

Passengers arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport can expect a smooth and efficient experience. The airport has a dedicated arrivals area located in both terminals, with facilities such as baggage reclaim, currency exchange, and immigration. International passengers must pass through immigration and customs before exiting the terminal building.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport receives flights from several international airlines, including Emirates, British Airways, and Qatar Airways. Passengers can check the latest arrivals information on the airport’s official website or through third-party flight tracking websites such as Airportia or FlightRadar24.

DEPARTURES

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport’s departure area is located on the upper level of both terminals. Passengers departing from the airport are advised to arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for check-in, security clearance, and immigration procedures.

The airport offers a range of facilities for departing passengers, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges. Passengers can also find currency exchange services, ATMs, and car rental facilities in the terminal building.

Passengers can check the latest departure information on the airport’s official website or through third-party flight tracking websites such as Airportia or FlightRadar24.

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is a major hub for international travel, with flights to and from destinations across the globe. The airport serves as a gateway to East Africa, with connections to other major cities in the region such as Dar es Salaam, Addis Ababa, and Kigali.

Passengers traveling on international flights are advised to check the latest travel restrictions and entry requirements for their destination country before traveling. The airport has implemented several measures to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers, including enhanced cleaning and sanitization procedures, social distancing measures, and mandatory mask-wearing policies.

IMMIGRATION

Passengers arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport must pass through immigration before exiting the terminal building. The immigration process involves presenting a valid passport and any necessary visas or travel documents. Passengers are advised to ensure that their travel documents are up-to-date and comply with the entry requirements of their destination country.

Immigration procedures at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport are generally efficient and straightforward, with dedicated immigration officers and processing facilities for both domestic and international passengers. Passengers are advised to follow the instructions of immigration officers and to cooperate with any additional screening measures that may be in place.

AIRPORT AUTHORITY

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is managed and operated by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), a state corporation that was established in 1991 under the KAA Act. KAA is responsible for the development, maintenance, and management of all airports and airstrips in Kenya.

KAA is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure, Housing, Urban Development, and Public Works. The Board is responsible for providing strategic direction and policy guidance to the Authority. The day-to-day operations of KAA are managed by a team of experienced professionals led by the Managing Director.

KAA’s mission is to provide safe, secure, efficient, and profitable airports that meet the needs of all stakeholders. To achieve this mission, KAA has put in place various measures to enhance the passenger experience at JKIA. These measures include:

• Check-in Guidelines: Departure halls have clearly marked check-in counters. Airline and KAA ground staff are available to facilitate passengers through boarding procedures and on to the immigration desks. To make the check-in process easier for passengers, KAA has set up self-check-in kiosks at various points of the airport.
• Information Desks: KAA has set up information desks at various points of the airport tailored to serve both arriving and departing passengers. The KAA security section handles lost and found property. Passengers who lose items are advised to check with this section.
• Customer Service: KAA has won several awards for excellence in customer service. The Authority is committed to providing high-quality services to all passengers, airlines, and stakeholders.

In conclusion, KAA plays a critical role in the management and operation of JKIA. The Authority is committed to providing safe, secure, efficient, and profitable airports that meet the needs of all stakeholders.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET THROUGH CUSTOMS IN NAIROBI?

The time it takes to clear customs in Nairobi can vary depending on the number of passengers arriving and the time of day. Typically, it takes between 30 minutes to an hour to clear customs.

HOW EARLY SHOULD I ARRIVE AT NAIROBI AIRPORT?

Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before their scheduled departure time for international flights and at least 2 hours before their scheduled departure time for domestic flights.

WHAT ARE THE LOUNGES AVAILABLE AT JOMO KENYATTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has several lounges available for passengers, including the Kenya Airways Simba Lounge, the Turkish Airlines Lounge, the KQ Pride Lounge, and the Swissport Lounge.

WHAT IS THE ADDRESS OF JOMO KENYATTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?

The address of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is Airport South Rd, Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya.