Sh2.7 billion Isiolo airport gets the green light to start operations

Kenya Airports Authority managing director Yatich Kangungo (in red tie), Isiolo Governor Godana Doyo (third right) and other stakeholders during a tour of the Isiolo International Airport on May 06, 2016. PHOTO | PHOEBE OKALL | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Mr Yatich Kangugo said KAA is satisfied with the project.
  • Mr Kangugo further added that the ultra-modern airport will boost business in northern Kenya.

  • The airport is part of Vision 2030 flagship projects and is expected to promote growth and unlock economic potential of the region.

Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has given Isiolo airport a clean bill of health to start operations.

The KAA Managing Director (MD) Yatich Kangugo who led an assessment crew comprising aeronautical and structural engineers in the inspection of the facility said they were satisfied with the project.

Mr Kangugo said the Sh2.7 billion facility would begin operations within the next four weeks.

While touring the facility, Mr Kangugo further added that the ultra-modern airport will boost business in northern Kenya.

The airport is part of Vision 2030 flagship projects and is expected to promote growth and unlock economic potential of the region.

It has a 4,500 square metres passenger terminal capable of handling 125,000 passengers annually.

The MD however recommended that the 1.4kilometres runway be extended to ease landing of bigger aircrafts.

He said those affected by the facility’s expansion will be relocated once plans by the National Land Commission are finalised.

“Already some of the affected residents have been compensated but we plan to resettle others who are near the facility,” he said.

MARKETING THE AIRPORT

Mr Kangugo added that challenges of water supply and electricity to the facility will be addressed in two weeks.

The team approved the runway, patrol roads, parking bay, arrival and departure terminals among other areas as fit for operation.

East African Safari Air Express Director George Kivindyo who accompanied the team said the facility was ready to start operations.

Mr Kivindyo said the next two weeks will be used to market the airport both nationally and internationally ahead of its opening.

Isiolo Governor Godana Doyo hailed the national government for turning the region into an economic hub.

“Once the project is operational, it will unlock the economic potential of the region. The facility will improve transport,” said Mr Doyo.

He urged locals from Isiolo and neighbouring counties to take advantage of the airport.

Farmers and traders in the neighbouring counties are expected to transport perishable products such as miraa, meat and horticultural produce.

The governor is confident the new facility will not elicit conflict despite