GARISSA, Kenya — Scheduled flights between Nairobi and Garissa have resumed following the completion of a Sh710 million modernisation project at Garissa Airport, opening a new chapter for air connectivity, trade and investment in the North Eastern region.
The project, jointly funded by the national and Garissa county governments, saw the airport undergo extensive rehabilitation and expansion works that temporarily affected operations.
The upgraded facility now features an expanded runway, improved taxiways, VIP halls, modern checking areas, a prayer area and a larger aircraft apron designed to improve operational efficiency and accommodate more aircraft.
Skyward Express launched scheduled flights on the Nairobi-Garissa route on Wednesday, becoming the first airline to operate the new service following the airport’s upgrade.
The airline will operate four flights a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, with a one-way fare starting at Sh9,000.
Garissa Governor Nathif Jama, who attended the launch at Garissa Airport, said the new service would improve access to the county while facilitating the movement of people and goods.
He said improved air connectivity would also support tourism, trade, investment and wider economic activity across Garissa and neighbouring counties.
Jama said the airport investment was already beginning to deliver the benefits envisaged when the county and national governments agreed to jointly modernise the facility.
“When we said that let’s expand the runway and the terminal as a joint initiative between the county and the national government, we knew that we were heading somewhere. I am happy that today, those fruits are being realised. Today in Garissa, we are talking about airline companies serving us,” Jama said.
The governor highlighted the improvements made to the terminal, including two VIP halls, a public waiting area, a prayer area and modern passenger checking facilities.
“This is now a complete terminal. We thank Skyward Express for trusting us and for seeing the opportunity in Garissa,” he added.
Jama said the airport could attract even greater business opportunities once the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) completes the installation and equipping of the facility.
KAA pledges support for new route
Captain Mohamed Abdi, KAA Manager for Airport Operations at Wilson Airport and the Northern region, welcomed Skyward Express’ decision to introduce the route and assured the airline of continued cooperation.
He said the new service represented more than an additional flight, arguing that it would strengthen connectivity between Garissa and other parts of the country while creating new opportunities for residents and businesses.
“Kenya Airports Authority is committed to providing safe, secure, efficient and reliable airport infrastructure that enables airlines to operate effectively and passengers to travel with confidence,” Abdi said.
He said KAA was pleased to partner with Skyward Express in expanding air services to Garissa and commended the airline for its confidence in the market.
“We assure the airline of KAA’s continued cooperation and support as we work together to ensure that this route is successful and sustainable,” he said.
Abdi also acknowledged the contribution of the Garissa County Government towards construction of the terminal building, describing the launch as an important milestone for the region.
“As we launch this new service today, we are not only celebrating a new route, we are accelerating opportunity, connectivity and a shared vision for the development of the North Eastern region,” he said.
The resumption of scheduled flights comes as Garissa seeks to leverage its upgraded airport to attract more visitors, investors and businesses.
The improved air link is also expected to provide residents with a faster alternative to road travel between Garissa and Nairobi while supporting the movement of high-value goods and strengthening the county’s integration with Kenya’s wider economy.
