The Ministry of Roads and Transport has rolled out a new framework to streamline foreign airline access into Kenya, aiming to safeguard national interests while promoting global best practices in aviation.
Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said the initiative seeks to regularise airline market access while addressing critical issues such as airport slots, fund repatriation, advertising rights, staff employment, and taxation.
“We have engaged key sectors including trade, tourism, agriculture, the private sector, KAA, and KCAA to ensure that all applications are evaluated systematically and fairly,” Chirchir noted.
The move reflects Kenya’s commitment to transparent processes and reciprocal international cooperation, as highlighted in the Chicago Convention of 1944 and ICAO principles. Aviation, being a strategic sector, balances safety, security, and significant economic benefits.
To oversee implementation, a Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) chaired by Aviation Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika has been formed. The committee is tasked with assessing external airline applications through a structured consultative process.
Mbaika emphasized that the framework will strengthen Kenya’s aviation sector: “The robust air transport sector Kenya aspires to build relies on serious, consultative processes that guarantee equity and mutual benefit.”
The Ministry further revealed that dishonest individuals had in the past exploited loopholes in air access approvals. The new framework closes such gaps while ensuring inclusivity across tourism, trade, and agriculture.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano hailed the move as a game-changer for the industry, noting that increased air connectivity will boost visitor numbers, revenue, and jobs. The government is targeting five million tourist arrivals by 2027.
Trade CS Lee Kinyanjui and Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe also endorsed the framework, highlighting its potential to expand agricultural exports through enhanced cargo lift and possible 5th freedom rights.
Kenya’s aviation sector supports over 26,000 direct jobs and contributes about US$1.5 billion to GDP. By strengthening governance, investing in infrastructure, and expanding partnerships, Kenya is reinforcing its position as a leading aviation hub in East and Central Africa.
