KENYA MOVES TO OPEN SKIES AS PART OF AFRICA’S SINGLE AIR TRANSPORT MARKET

Kenya is weighing the opening of its skies under the Single African Air Transport Market as it pursues aviation growth, trade and tourism targets.

Kenya aviation Single african air transport market Open skies africa
Plane in the Sky
Plane in the Sky

Kenya is considering opening its skies to more carriers as part of the Single African Air Transport Market, a continental initiative designed to improve connectivity and boost intra-African trade. The move coincides with plans for a new international airport as the government seeks to expand the country’s aviation capacity and global competitiveness.

Kenya Civil Aviation Authority director general Emile Arao confirmed that discussions are ongoing among key ministries, with the goal of attracting more airlines while protecting Kenya Airways. Speaking during the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation Africa Conference in Nairobi, he stressed that collaboration rather than protectionism is the real driver of aviation growth.

Kenya is one of the original signatories of the Single African Air Transport Market, which was launched in 2018 as part of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The country has also taken part in pilot projects that focus on harmonising airspace management and facilitating seamless cross-border operations. According to Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, Kenya is redesigning its airspace, modernising airports, and streamlining licensing processes to improve efficiency and passenger experience.

The initiative is expected to boost tourism as Kenya targets five million visitors annually, while strengthening exports of fresh produce and other goods. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport already hosts more than 40 passenger airlines and over 25 cargo airlines, making it one of Africa’s busiest hubs.

However, some stakeholders warn that opening the skies too quickly could hurt local carriers, which already face high operating costs and competition from stronger international airlines.

Comments

You must be logged in to comment.