Kenya Airways plane. Photo | courtesy.
Aviation contributed Sh425 billion to Kenya’s economy in 2023 equivalent to 3.1 percent of the country’s GDP according to a new report released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
According to the report, the sector also supported 460,000 jobs across the value chain, including those created directly by airlines, through the wider supply chain, employee spending, and tourism-related activities.
The findings were unveiled as Nairobi hosts the 37th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC),the first time this global aviation summit is being held in AfricaThe IATA report also ranks Kenya as the 35th largest air cargo market in the world, with 380,000 tonnes of freight transported in 2023.
Speaking on the report’s findings, IATA Director General Willie Walsh emphasized the transformative impact of aviation on Kenya’s economy.
“With Africa’s aviation market projected to grow at 3.7 percent annually over the next two decades, the opportunity for even greater economic and social impact is enormous,” he said.
“However, achieving this potential will require efficient, cost-competitive infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and a firm commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.” he added.
Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka welcomed the report, highlighting the significance of hosting the IGHC in Nairobi.
“Hosting the IATA Ground Handling Conference here in Nairobi at this crucial time provides a vital platform for us to collaboratively tackle the challenges and opportunities highlighted in this study.” said Kilavuka.
The conference, which brings together aviation leaders, industry experts, and government representatives, is focusing on modernizing operations, investing in workforce development, and fostering enhanced collaboration and coordination across the sector.
IATA has emphasized the need for continuous collaboration between airport authorities and airlines to develop infrastructure that meets global standards and is both efficient and cost-effective.
Tools like the Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) and the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) are essential for ground handling service providers.
In 2024, ISAGO reached a record 400 station accreditations globally, delivering significant savings and improving operational consistency.
Additionally, the report calls for enhanced passenger and cargo facilitation through full implementation of Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system and a comprehensive digitalization strategy. This will strengthen Kenya’s competitiveness as a regional hub and improve its appeal for international travel and trade.
