NAIROBI, Kenya — The Ministry of Roads and Transport has introduced new guidelines to regulate foreign airline market access in Kenya, a move officials say will safeguard the country’s aviation sector while promoting fair competition and economic growth.
Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said the framework is designed to align with global best practices, while addressing challenges such as airport access, slot allocations, fund repatriation, staffing, advertising rights, and taxation.
“As Kenya continues to honor existing Air Service Agreements, it is important to evaluate market access applications systematically and consultatively to prevent unfair treatment,” Chirchir said.
The new approach follows months of consultations with key stakeholders, including the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), and representatives from trade, agriculture, tourism, and the private sector.
Strengthening Oversight
A Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC), chaired by State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika, has begun assessing all applications from foreign airlines.
The Ministry said this structured evaluation process, which did not exist before, will protect Kenya’s strategic national interests.
“The robust air transport sector Kenya aspires to build relies on consultative processes that guarantee equity and mutual benefit,” Mbaika said.
The Ministry noted that in the past, dishonest individuals exploited loopholes to bypass procedures.
The current reforms, it said, emphasize transparency and inclusivity to prevent such infiltration.
Boost to Tourism and Trade
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano welcomed the initiative, saying improved air access will attract more visitors and help Kenya meet its target of five million tourist arrivals by 2027.
“Air transport enhances connectivity locally, regionally, and globally, making it easier and more affordable for tourists to reach Kenyan destinations,” Miano said.
Trade CS Lee Kinyanjui and Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe also lauded the reforms, noting they would expand cargo capacity and potentially allow for 5th freedom rights to support exports of agricultural perishables.
Economic Impact
Aviation is a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy, directly employing more than 26,000 people, contributing about US$1.5 billion to GDP, and supporting thousands of jobs in tourism, trade, and related industries.
The government said ongoing reforms—including new market access rules, infrastructure upgrades, and international partnerships—will cement Kenya’s position as a leading aviation hub in East and Central Africa.
The TEC draws membership from multiple ministries, state agencies, and industry stakeholders, including the Office of the Attorney General, Kenya Airways, Kenya Tourism Board, and Kenya Association of Air Operators.
