Kenya's Government Unveils New JKIA Expansion Plan after Adani Fallout

Updated December 7, 2025:

The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has unveiled an ambitious years-long expansion plan to overhaul Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Regarded as one of the largest airports in Africa, the planned expansion project will further solidify the airport’s standings. The redevelopment is regarded as the most sweeping on the country’s private aviation gateway in more than four decades. Furthermore, this comes months after the collapse of the controversial Adani proposal. The proposal was presented this week by KAA and global infrastructure consultancy Sidara. The airports development project once underway will rank as one of the noteworthy airport projects in development in Africa.

It lays out a transformative redesign that introduces various new features. These include a new terminal, a second runway, expanded airfield facilities, and an airport city. Once complete, these developments will position JKIA among Africa’s leading international hubs. The Integrated Master Plan 2025-2045 comes at a critical moment for JKIA. The airport has continuously struggled with ageing infrastructure, safety gaps, overcrowding, and stiff regional competition from modernized airports in Addis Ababa. Ethiopia is on the forefront of Africa’s aviation sector as they plan to commence construction on the $10 billion Bishoftu International Airport. The facility will become Africa’s largest airport project once complete.

Significance of the JKIA New Expansion Plan

Once complete, the JKIA new expansion plan will improve a lot of factors in the airport. Passenger traffic is projected to more than double over the next 20 years. The traffic will increase from 8.6 million to over 22 million by 2045. The surge is one that experts note the current facilities cannot support. The new blueprints is a state-of-the-art passenger terminal capable of handling at least 10 million passengers in its first phase. However, it is expandable to 15 million. Designed as an X-shaped layout, the terminal features four piers, a central processing hall and an expanded security and immigration capacity. Furthermore, it features modern commercial spaces and fully separated domestic and international flows. Its completion will replace the patchwork of legacy structures that have long been strained under rising demand.

The Construction of A New Runway to ease JKIA’s Risky Dependence

The redevelopment and expansion plan also includes the construction of a second full-length runway. This will effectively end JKIA’s risky dependence on its single runway, runway 06/24 which has become increasingly fatigued. The parallel runway will enable simultaneous landings and departures. Through this, it will reduce delays and improve resilience to emergencies or maintenance closures. The factor is one that has become a persistent bottleneck in recent years. Even before the second runway is completed, KAA plans immediate airfield improvements. These include new rapid exits and a partial parallel taxiway to alleviate congestion.

KAA acting managing director Dr Mohamud Gedi noted that the airport is beginning with an upgrade of the existing terminal. Furthermore, he noted that the consultant is already on the ground to study and understand how quickly a passenger can be served even as they work on the construction of a new terminal. The move also comes after President Willam Ruto noted in his recent State of the Nation address. He told MPs that the airport had reached a stage where piecemeal repairs can no longer sustain safe, modern operations. In the address, he noted modernizing JKIA was not a luxury rather a national imperative essential to protecting Kenya’s aviation competitiveness. The move, he said, will also support tourism and trade and avoid future safety incidents.

October 25, 2025: The Government Delivery Unit (GDU) and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) have unveiled detailed timelines for the long-awaited overhaul of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). This overhaul includes an expansion plan and the construction of a new runway.

The new runway is expected to be completed by June 2027. It is expected to improve efficiency, passenger experience, and positioning Kenya as a regional transport hub.

According to the Acting Head of the Government Delivery Unit, Mr Olando Sitati, the government is fully committed to delivering modern and efficient airport facilities under President William Ruto’s transformation agenda.

The projects are anchored in Kenya Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). This model prioritize infrastructure as a key driver of economic growth.

“Modern and efficient airports are key to positioning Kenya as a first-class economy by 2050,” Mr Sitati said, noting that the JKIA modernization project will address long-standing operational inefficiencies and congestion challenges.

Also, regarding the upgrade works of the airport Kenya is seeking to utilize the balance sheet for the Kenya Airports Authority to fund the JKIA overhaul. This comes after Adani’s deal with Kenya did not materialise thereby forcing Kenya to seek other funding alternatives for the project.

The expansion plans on the JKIA include the installation of new passenger boarding bridges and ground-handling equipment by June 2026. Also, it entails the construction of a new 4.8-kilometer runway by June 2027 and the development of a world-class passenger terminal by 2029.

Detailed timelines on the overhaul of the JKIA have been unveiled

In a plan to upgrade overall aviation status, Kenya had plans to construct another new massive $2 billion airport as pressure mount on JKIA following ageing infrastructure in the terminals.

Reported on July 31, 2024

Adani Airport Holdings Limited proposes modernization of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) amid controversy and optimism. Learn more.

JKIA the Kenyan’s busiest airport is on track for an upgrade thanks to a significant proposal put forward by Adani Airport Holdings Limited. The new JKIA expansion plan for modernization aims to breathe life into the aging infrastructure of the airport paving the way for a wave of growth and enhanced competitiveness on a regional level for Kenya.

Since its founding in 1978, JKIA has served as a gateway to East Africa welcoming millions of travelers each year and supporting trade links. However due to aging infrastructure dating back decades there is a pressing need for an upgrade to maintain its status as a leading hub, in the area. The recent proposal put forth by Adani Airport Holdings Limited comes at a time providing solutions to tackle existing infrastructure obstacles that have impeded growth.

Adani Airport Holdings Limited, an affiliate of India’s Adani Group boasts a track record in managing and modernizing airports across the globe. Their expertise brings with it experience that promises top tier standards for JKIA. With projects under their belt in cities such as Mumbai and Ahmedabad they have made significant strides in improving operational efficiency and enhancing passenger satisfaction.

While the proposal has received acclaim, for its potential to stimulate growth and elevate Kenya’s reputation it has also stirred up some debate.

Prime Ministerial Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and other officials have reassured the public that the airport will not be sold, addressing concerns, about privatization. Mudavadi stressed that any changes would go through a process with parliamentary approval needed for major decisions.

The proposed JKIA’s modernization projects are also expected to create job opportunities and open up business prospects. Upgraded facilities will attract airlines and travelers boosting tourism and commerce. A comprehensive upgrade plan called the JKIA Medium Term Investment Plan has been sanctioned by the Cabinet. However the substantial capital investment needed for the project exceeds the governments capacity hence requiring private sector participation.

What are the key elements of the JKIA Expansion Plan?

The modernization scheme includes a terminal, a runway and extensive renovation of existing facilities. These improvements aim to improve efficiency, safety standards and passenger satisfaction. KAA Acting CEO Henry Ogoye stated that Adani will collaborate under the Public Private Partnerships Act 2021. This ensures adherence to financial and legal evaluations.

“The Cabinet endorsed the JKIA Medium Term Investment Plan encompassing upgrades to the passenger terminal building, runway, taxiway and apron” Ogoye explained. “The associated investment need is substantial. Cannot be met within existing limitations without resorting to private financing.”

The agreement, for the JKIA’s modernization project will also require involvement of stakeholders approval from the National Treasury clearance from the Attorney General and final approval from the Cabinet.

Some oppose the proposal despite its advantages. Critics raise concerns about transparency and agreement terms. Kisii Senator Onyoka spoke publicly about JKIA’s takeover reports. He alleges entities now own the airport. Onyoka cites a whistleblower. He claims a private company will operate JKIA for 30 years. This company would keep an 18 percent stake after the contract ends.

Kenya Airports Authority(KAA) responds to concerns. It reassures employees and the airport business community. KAA guarantees no job losses from planned improvements. Instead, they anticipate growth. Expanded facilities will create new business opportunities. These changes will benefit airport operators. Moreover, the wider community will also gain advantages.

Examining projects in countries offers valuable insights. In India Adani Groups participation in airport modernization has resulted in enhancements in efficiency and passenger satisfaction. These instances highlight both successes and challenges associated with the JKIA modernization project.

Aviation expert John Doe stated, “The proposed improvements signal progress, for JKIA.” Having a player like Adani Airport Holdings onboard ensures a standard of execution. Experts highlight the outcomes with transparent and inclusive project implementation.

Looking ahead, the Adani modernization of JKIA could set a standard for infrastructure projects in Kenya. Transparency and stakeholder involvement will be crucial in overcoming challenges and maximizing benefits. Striking a balance, between growth and public interests will be essential as Kenya moves forward with this project.

The success of this initiative hinges on planning, effective communication and robust oversight. The Adani proposal presents an opportunity for optimism. If executed effectively it has the potential to pave the way for a future for the country. As a result JKIA would continue to serve as a gateway for East Africa.