Kenya is home to several modern international airports that serve as crucial gateways for global travel and commerce. These airports are equipped with customs and immigration facilities, enabling passengers to fly in and out of the country with ease. From bustling aviation hubs to newly upgraded regional terminals, here’s a comprehensive list of international airports in Kenya.
1. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)
As Kenya’s flagship airport and East Africa’s busiest hub, JKIA connects Nairobi to the world. It handles over 40 passenger airlines and 25 cargo airlines, offering unmatched connectivity across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
- Location: Embakasi, Nairobi
- Highlights: Africa’s top hub, direct long-haul flights, premier customs and cargo handling
2. Moi International Airport
Located in Mombasa, Moi International Airport is a strategic entry point for tourists visiting Kenya’s coastal region. It accommodates numerous international airlines with direct flights to Europe and key African destinations.
- Location: Port Reitz, Mombasa
- Highlights: Major tourist airport, handles long-haul flights, near beaches and resorts
3. Kisumu International Airport
This airport serves the Lake Victoria region and connects western Kenya to regional and international destinations. Its proximity to Uganda makes it a key entry point for East African trade and tourism.
- Location: Kisumu Town (northwest), near the Kisumu-Busia Road
- Highlights: Near Uganda border, regional economic hub, lakefront location
4. Eldoret International Airport
Strategically built to stimulate economic growth in western Kenya, Eldoret International Airport currently facilitates scheduled international cargo flights and several ad hoc freighters each week.
- Location: 16 km from Eldoret Town, along Eldoret-Kisumu Road
- Highlights: Cargo-focused, economic gateway for Western Kenya
5. Malindi International Airport
Malindi’s airport plays a growing role in supporting coastal tourism. Though currently undergoing expansion, it’s set to accommodate direct international flights soon, especially from Europe and the Middle East.
- Location: 2.5 km from Malindi Town, along Mombasa-Malindi Road
- Highlights: Tourist-oriented, under expansion, gateway to Watamu and Lamu
6. Isiolo International Airport
A new entrant to Kenya’s aviation scene, Isiolo International Airport was launched in 2017 following a KSh 2.7 billion upgrade. It is a strategic investment to promote tourism and trade in Northern Kenya.
- Location: Border of Isiolo and Meru Counties
- Highlights: Modern facility, boosts northern connectivity, new tourism corridor
