Competing with Addis Ababa, Nairobi wants to become a regional aviation hub in East Africa. This became clear when SkyTeam Member Kenya Airways is now competing with Star Alliance Member Ethiopian Airlines to make Nairobi the prime regional center of aviation in the region.
Kenya Airways wants it all, including taking over the management of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. Such a proposal was presented to the Kenya Airport Authority (KAA) according to a local news report.
Jonny Andersen, MD, KAA said that the application, which outlines how Kenya Airways will support and grow the aviation business in Kenya, will be granted if it meets approval from the airports’ regulator. In addition, KAA must satisfy itself that the proposal is feasible and provides for value for money to both KAA and the public before implementation.
KAA has appointed an adviser to assist and guide. Kenya Airways is set to merge with KAA as part of a grand plan to deepen the airlines’ recovery and cement Nairobi’s status as a regional transport hub.
Kenya Airways would take overall the staff and operations of the KAA. This move will expand the range of the airline`s services to include ground handling, maintenance, catering, warehousing, and cargo.
A special economic zone would emerge around JKIA.
The government is further expected to support the joint venture by exempting the national carrier from certain taxes.
