What is the IATA code for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, and what does it signify?

The IATA code for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is NBO. This three-letter code is used globally for identifying airports, particularly in flight bookings and baggage handling systems, making it easier to manage air travel logistics.

What is the ICAO code for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, and what is its purpose?

The ICAO code for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is HKJK. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) uses these four-letter codes to identify airports for air traffic control and operational purposes, distinct from the IATA codes used more commonly by passengers and the travel industry.

Where is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport located within Nairobi, Kenya?

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is situated in the Embakasi suburb of Nairobi, Kenya. It is located approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) southeast of the city's central business district.

Who operates Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is operated by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA). This government agency is responsible for the management and development of airports across Kenya.

When was Jomo Kenyatta International Airport originally opened?

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was originally opened on March 9, 1958. At that time, it was known as Embakasi Airport.

Why was the airport renamed from Embakasi Airport to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?

The airport was renamed in honor of Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya's first president and Prime Minister. The renaming occurred in 1978, following his death.

What was the passenger traffic at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in 2016, and how did it rank continentally?

In 2016, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport served over 7 million passengers. This volume made it the seventh busiest airport in passenger traffic across the African continent.

What is the postal code for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?

The postal code for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is 00501.

What were the initial discussions surrounding the airport's development in the mid-20th century?

Discussions about building the airport began in 1945, driven by concerns from Britain and its national airline, BOAC, that the existing Eastleigh Airport was insufficient for post-war civilian airliners. For eight years, planners debated the costs of improving Eastleigh versus constructing a new airport, with funding being a significant issue.

What challenges were encountered during the construction of the airport in the 1950s?

The construction faced significant civil engineering challenges. Furthermore, a substantial portion of the work was carried out by forced laborers, many of whom were suspected members of the Kenya Land and Freedom Army. The intense pressure to complete the airport led to extremely poor working conditions, with reports of laborers dying from exhaustion, committing suicides, and engaging in self-mutilation.

Who officially opened Embakasi Airport in 1958?

Embakasi Airport (now JKIA) was officially opened on March 9, 1958, by Sir Evelyn Baring, who was the last colonial governor of Kenya at the time.

Why was Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother unable to attend the airport's opening ceremony in 1958?

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother was scheduled to open the airport, but her attendance was prevented by a delay caused by engine failure on her Qantas Lockheed Super Constellation aircraft while she was in Australia.

How did the runway at Embakasi Airport compare to the runway at Eastleigh Airport?

The runway at Embakasi Airport measured 3,048 meters (10,000 feet), which was a substantial improvement over Eastleigh's 2,432 meters (7,979 feet) murram runway. The murram surface at Eastleigh became unsuitable for aircraft like the Britannias during the rainy season.

What engineering qualities did the new runway at Embakasi Airport possess?

The runway was engineered with great care, resulting in an asphalt surface that was precisely cambered, allowing water to drain evenly. This engineering precision achieved a Load Classification Number (LCN) of 100, making it capable of handling large aircraft like the Boeing 707 at its maximum gross weight.

What design influences were evident in the original Embakasi Airport terminal?

The architect of Embakasi Airport was significantly influenced by the design of Kloten Airport in Zurich. Both airports were designed to allow arriving passengers a clear view through the building, minimizing the need for signage, and shared a sense of lightness and spaciousness characteristic of modern airport design at the time.

What major expansion projects were funded by the World Bank for JKIA in 1972?

In 1972, the World Bank approved funds for significant airport expansion. This included a new international and domestic passenger terminal, the airport's first dedicated cargo terminal, new taxiways, aprons, internal roads, parking facilities, police and fire stations, airfield and roadway lighting, a fire hydrant system, water, electrical, and sewage systems, and improvements to access roads.

When was the current terminal building completed and opened, and what significant event occurred later that year?

The construction of the current terminal building was completed on March 14, 1978, and opened by President Kenyatta. Later that year, on August 22, 1978, President Kenyatta passed away, and the airport was subsequently renamed in his honor.

What was the purpose of the Concorde's landing at JKIA in October 1994?

In October 1994, a British Airways Concorde landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as part of tests to evaluate the supersonic aircraft's performance at high altitudes.

What was the goal of the 'Kenya Vision 2030' initiative concerning JKIA's infrastructure?

Launched in 2008, Kenya Vision 2030 aimed to upgrade JKIA's aging infrastructure to world-class standards. This included plans for new terminals and runway enhancements, with a specific goal to increase the airport's capacity to approximately 18.5 million passengers annually by 2030 through projects like the Greenfield Terminal.

What happened to the proposed Greenfield Terminal Project under Kenya Vision 2030?

The KES 56 billion (US$560 million) Greenfield Terminal Project was terminated by the Kenya Airports Authority in March 2016. This decision was made because the contractor failed to secure the necessary funding, halting Kenya's ambition to build one of Africa's largest terminals.

What significant status did JKIA achieve from the US Federal Aviation Administration in February 2017?

In February 2017, JKIA was awarded Category One Status by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This designation is crucial as it permits the possibility of direct flights between the United States and Nairobi.

Describe the fire incident at JKIA on August 7, 2013.

On August 7, 2013, a major fire broke out in the immigration area of Unit I at JKIA, rapidly spreading to Unit II. The fire caused extensive damage, destroying these sections of the terminal. Unit III was temporarily used for international traffic, and incoming flights were diverted to other airports. The cause was later determined to be an electrical fault.

What were the immediate consequences of the 2013 fire at JKIA?

The fire led to the closure of the airport for international traffic, with flights being diverted to neighboring countries and other Kenyan airports. Businesses within the affected terminal units reported missing items, and there were allegations of looting by first responders. Tourists also reported being assaulted by individuals blocking access to the airport. While no fatalities occurred among airport staff or firefighters, some Kenya Airways employees required hospital observation.

What was the confirmed cause of the 2013 fire at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?

Following investigations, the cause of the 2013 fire at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was confirmed to be an electrical fault originating in a distribution board.

How was international traffic handled after the 2013 fire destroyed the main terminal units?

After the fire destroyed the international arrival and departure units (Units I and II), airport officials utilized Unit III, which was normally used for domestic traffic, to handle some international operations. Operations were partially resumed on August 8, 2013.

What temporary measure was implemented for international arrivals following the 2013 fire?

Following the fire that destroyed the main international arrivals terminal, a parking facility was converted into a temporary international arrivals terminal. This temporary facility was later opened to serve arriving passengers from airlines operating out of Terminals 1B and 1C.

What was the outcome of the 2024 strike involving airport workers at JKIA?

On September 11, 2024, airport workers went on strike to protest proposals to lease the airport to India's Adani Group for 30 years. The Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights also opposed the proposal, citing the airport's status as a strategic national asset. Their petitions led to the suspension of the proposal pending a court decision.

How are the terminals at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport organized?

JKIA has two main terminals. Terminal 1 is arranged in a semi-circular shape and is divided into four sections: 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1E are used for international operations, while 1D handles domestic flights. Terminal 2 is designated for low-cost carriers.

Which terminal at JKIA is primarily used by SkyTeam member airlines?

Terminal 1A at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is primarily used by SkyTeam member airlines. This terminal has a capacity of 2.5 million passengers annually and features multiple check-in counters, departure gates, and amenities.

Which airlines exclusively use Terminal 1D for domestic flights?

Terminal 1D at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport serves departing and arriving passengers on domestic flights and is exclusively used by Kenya Airways and its subsidiary, Jambojet.

What is the purpose of Terminal 2 at JKIA?

Terminal 2 at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport primarily serves low-cost carrier airlines (LCCs). This prefabricated terminal opened in April 2015 with a capacity of 2.5 million passengers and was intended to alleviate overcrowding in other terminals.

What is Terminal 3 at JKIA, also known as the 'Greenfield Terminal'?

Terminal 3, referred to as the 'Greenfield Terminal,' is a planned new terminal building for JKIA with a projected capacity of 20 million passengers per year. Although construction began in 2014, it was canceled in 2016 but has since been revived by the government with an expected completion in 2027.

What lounges are available at Terminal 1A of JKIA?

Terminal 1A at JKIA features the Simba Lounge and Pride Lounge, which opened in January 2015. These lounges were developed at a cost of KES 135 million and are accessible to KQ's Premier World and SkyTeam's Sky Priority passengers.

Which lounges are available at Terminal 1C and 1D of JKIA?

Terminal 1C at JKIA houses the Kenya Airways Simba Lounge and the Turkish Airlines Lounge, along with duty-free shops and a cafe. Terminal 1D also has a Turkish Airlines Lounge. Access to these lounges is typically available through elite status or paid passes.

What was the planned capacity and cost of the second runway approved for JKIA in 2017?

In January 2017, a second runway for JKIA, equipped with an instrument landing system, was approved for construction. It was planned to be 5,500 meters (18,000 feet) long and cost approximately KES 37 billion (US$370 million). This runway was intended to double aircraft movement capacity from 25 to 45 per hour.

What is the current status of the second runway project for JKIA?

Although approved in 2017 with plans to significantly increase aircraft movement capacity, the government indicated in 2019 that the second runway project was no longer a priority. This decision means that disruptions related to runway capacity are likely to persist.

What dining and retail facilities are mentioned at JKIA?

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport features Amaica, a restaurant offering Kenyan and African cuisine, located in Terminal 1A. Additionally, the American fast-food chain Hardee's has an outlet in Terminal 1A.

Which airlines operate cargo services from JKIA, and what are some of their key destinations?

Several airlines operate cargo services from JKIA, including Kenya Airways Cargo, Astral Aviation, Cargolux, Emirates SkyCargo, Lufthansa Cargo, and Turkish Cargo. Key destinations served by these carriers include Amsterdam, Dubai, Johannesburg, London-Stansted, Maastricht/Aachen, and Sharjah, among others.

What ground transport options are available to and from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?

Ground transport options include access via Airport South Road, which connects to the Mombasa Road highway, and the newer 2022 expressway for direct travel. City Bus Route Number 34 also serves the airport. Additionally, a rail link connecting to central Nairobi has been operational since December 7, 2020.

What significant aviation accident occurred at JKIA on November 20, 1974?

On November 20, 1974, Lufthansa Flight 540, a Boeing 747-130, crashed on takeoff from runway 24 at Nairobi. This accident resulted in the deaths of 59 out of the 157 people on board and was the first fatal accident involving a Boeing 747.

Describe the Somali Airlines incident at JKIA on May 17, 1989.

On May 17, 1989, a Boeing 707 operated by Somali Airlines aborted its takeoff, overran the wet runway, and crashed into a rice field. While the aircraft was damaged beyond repair, there were no fatalities among the 70 passengers and crew on board.

What happened on December 4, 1990, involving a Sudania Air Cargo flight?

On December 4, 1990, a Sudania Air Cargo Boeing 707-321C freighter struck an electricity pole approximately 5 kilometers short of runway 06 during foggy conditions and crashed in flames. All 10 occupants on board perished, and the aircraft was a total loss.

What incident involved EgyptAir Flight 849 at JKIA on June 6, 2012?

On June 6, 2012, EgyptAir Flight 849, an Airbus A320, experienced a tire blowout upon landing at JKIA. The aircraft veered off the runway, obstructing it and necessitating the airport's closure. Inbound flights were diverted, but fortunately, none of the 123 passengers and crew were injured.

What accidents involving a Fokker 50 occurred at JKIA?

Two incidents involving Fokker 50 aircraft occurred at JKIA: on July 2, 2014, one crashed after takeoff due to mechanical failure, resulting in four fatalities. On January 4, 2015, another Fokker 50 experienced a landing gear failure, leading to a temporary airport closure and flight diversions, though no injuries were reported among the six people on board.

What is the significance of JKIA being ranked seventh busiest in Africa in 2016?

Being ranked seventh busiest in Africa in 2016 signifies Jomo Kenyatta International Airport's major role as a transportation hub on the continent. Handling over 7 million passengers that year highlights its importance for regional and international travel connectivity.

What are the primary airlines that use Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as a hub?

The primary airlines that use Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as a hub are Kenya Airways, Jambojet, and African Express Airways. These carriers utilize JKIA as their main base for operations.

Which major European cities are directly served by airlines operating from JKIA?

Airlines operating from JKIA offer direct flights to several major European cities, including Amsterdam (served by KLM and Kenya Airways), London (Heathrow and Gatwick, served by British Airways and Kenya Airways), Brussels (served by Brussels Airlines), and Frankfurt (served by Lufthansa).

What Asian destinations are accessible via direct flights from JKIA?

Direct flights from JKIA connect to various Asian destinations, including Dubai (served by Emirates and Flydubai), Doha (Qatar Airways), Abu Dhabi (Etihad Airways), Sharjah (Air Arabia), Mumbai (IndiGo), and Guangzhou (China Southern Airlines).

How does the airport's location on a lava plain benefit its operations?

The airport's site on a lava plain, chosen in the 1950s, provides clear approaches for aircraft. Specifically, the location ensures that flight paths are free from obstructions for at least 18 kilometers (11 miles) in any direction, which is crucial for safe takeoffs and landings.

What was the estimated economic impact of JKIA mentioned in the statistics for 2020?

According to the statistics for 2020, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport's economic impact was estimated at 0.01% of Kenya's GDP, equating to $781 million or KES 1.8 billion.

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Airport Overview

Location & Identity

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), identified by IATA code NBO and ICAO code HKJK, is Kenya's principal international gateway. Situated in Embakasi, approximately 18 kilometers southeast of Nairobi's central business district, it serves the capital city and its metropolitan region. Its postal code is 00501.

Operational Significance

As a key hub for several airlines, including Kenya Airways, Jambojet, and African Express Airways, JKIA facilitates scheduled flights to over 50 countries. In 2016, it handled over 7 million passengers, ranking it as the seventh busiest airport on the African continent. The airport operates with a single runway (06/24) constructed from asphalt, measuring 4,117 meters in length.

Key Statistics

In 2020, the airport recorded approximately 984,769 passengers and 2,000 aircraft movements. Its economic impact was estimated at 0.01% of Kenya's GDP, contributing roughly $781 million (KES 1.8 billion). The airport is operated by the Kenya Airports Authority.

Historical Trajectory

Early Development (1950s-1960s)

Discussions for a new airport began in 1945 due to the limitations of the existing Eastleigh Airport for post-war airliners. The planning and construction phases, initiated in 1954, were marked by significant civil engineering challenges and extensive use of forced labor. The airport officially opened on March 9, 1958, by Sir Evelyn Baring, the last colonial governor of Kenya. The runway, engineered to a high standard, was designed to accommodate contemporary large aircraft.

Expansion and Renaming (1970s-1990s)

In 1972, the World Bank funded a major expansion, including new passenger and cargo terminals. The current terminal building was completed in 1978 and opened by President Jomo Kenyatta. Following his death later that year, the airport was renamed in his honor. The 1990s saw notable events like the landing of a British Airways Concorde for performance testing.

Modernization and Challenges (2000s-Present)

The Kenya Vision 2030 initiative aimed to upgrade JKIA, including plans for a Greenfield Terminal. However, this project was terminated in 2016. The airport achieved FAA Category One status in 2017, enabling potential direct flights to the US. A significant fire in August 2013 caused extensive damage, leading to temporary operational adjustments and the eventual opening of Terminal 1A. Plans for a second runway have been proposed and deferred.

Recent Developments

In 2024, proposals to lease the airport to the Adani Group faced significant opposition, including a strike by airport workers and legal challenges from professional bodies, resulting in the suspension of the lease agreement.

Airport Facilities

Terminal Infrastructure

JKIA comprises multiple terminals: Terminal 1 (divided into 1A, 1B, 1C for international operations and 1D for domestic flights), Terminal 2 (serving low-cost carriers), and the planned Terminal 3 (Greenfield Terminal), which aims to significantly increase passenger capacity.

Passenger Amenities

Various lounges are available, including the Simba Lounge and Pride Lounge in Terminal 1A, the Turkish Airlines Lounge in Terminal 1D, and the Swissport Aspire Lounge in Terminal 1C, catering to different passenger needs.

Runway Capabilities

The airport features a primary asphalt runway (06/24) capable of handling large aircraft. A proposed second runway, designed to be longer and wider with advanced instrumentation, was planned to enhance capacity but has faced delays.

Additional Services

On-site facilities include dining options like Amaica restaurant and Hardee's, alongside the head offices for African Express Airways and the Kenya Airports Authority.

Airlines & Destinations

Passenger Services

JKIA serves a vast network of international and domestic destinations. Key carriers like Kenya Airways connect Nairobi to major cities across Africa, Europe, and Asia. Other prominent airlines include Air France, British Airways, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways, offering extensive global reach.

Cargo Operations

The airport is a significant cargo hub, with airlines such as Kenya Airways Cargo, Astral Aviation, Cargolux, Emirates SkyCargo, and Lufthansa Cargo operating routes across continents. These services support regional and international trade, transporting goods to and from key global markets.

Ground Transportation

Road Access

Direct access to JKIA is available via Airport South Road, connected to the Mombasa Road highway. The Nairobi Expressway offers a rapid transit route from the city center, bypassing traffic congestion.

Rail Connectivity

A rail link connecting JKIA to central Nairobi was established in December 2020, providing an alternative public transport option.

Public Transit

City Bus Route Number 34 provides public transportation services connecting passengers to and from the airport.

Notable Incidents

2013 Fire

An electrical fault triggered a major fire in August 2013, severely damaging the international arrivals and departures terminals. Initial concerns about terrorism were dismissed, with an electrical fault confirmed as the cause. The incident led to significant operational disruptions, temporary facilities, and reports of looting.

Past Accidents

The airport has been the site of several aviation accidents throughout its history, including the 1974 Lufthansa Flight 540 crash, a 1990 cargo plane crash, and various incidents involving runway excursions or mechanical failures, such as the 2012 EgyptAir incident and the 2014 Fokker 50 crash.

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References

"Why Kenya must act now to revive JKIA's Greenfield Terminal" - The Exchange Africa

africanexpress.net - Booking retrieved 13 February 2021

https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/250811-xy4q25nbo

A full list of references for this article are available at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional aviation, logistical, or operational consultation. Always refer to official documentation and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Nairobi's Gateway

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Airport Overview ℹ️

📍 Location & Identity

✈️ Operational Significance

📊 Key Statistics

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🏗️ Early Development (1950s-1960s)

🏛️ Expansion and Renaming (1970s-1990s)

📈 Modernization and Challenges (2000s-Present)

⚖️ Recent Developments

Airport Facilities 🛠️

🏢 Terminal Infrastructure

🛋️ Passenger Amenities

✈️ Runway Capabilities

🍽️ Additional Services

Airlines & Destinations 🌍

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Passenger Services

📦 Cargo Operations

Ground Transportation 🚗

🛣️ Road Access

🚆 Rail Connectivity

🚌 Public Transit

Notable Incidents ⚠️

🔥 2013 Fire

✈️ Past Accidents

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Airport Overview

Location & Identity

Operational Significance

Key Statistics

Historical Trajectory

Early Development (1950s-1960s)

Expansion and Renaming (1970s-1990s)

Modernization and Challenges (2000s-Present)

Recent Developments

Airport Facilities

Terminal Infrastructure

Passenger Amenities

Runway Capabilities

Additional Services

Airlines & Destinations

Passenger Services

Cargo Operations

Ground Transportation

Road Access

Rail Connectivity

Public Transit

Notable Incidents

2013 Fire

Past Accidents

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice