Malindi Airport at the Kenya coast is undergoing expansion at a cost of Ksh5.6 billion ($55m) that will see the airport accommodate international flights. Currently, the airport handles domestic flights.

The expansion of the airport is part of the Kenya government’s efforts to revive tourism in the tourist towns of Malindi and Watamu in Kilifi County.

Currently, tourists visiting the towns must fly from Europe to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi before boarding domestic flights to Moi International Airport, Mombasa. After arriving at Moi Airport, they have to travel by road for between two and three hours due to traffic congestion on roads in Mombasa before they get to Malindi.

Kenya’s Transport Principal Secretary, Irungu Nyakera, said phase one of the expansion would cost Ksh300 million, and said it entailed the expansion of the airport’s apron, construction of a car park and a 7.5km security fence. Phase one, he said, was expected to be completed in December to pave the way for the major works in phase two next year.

He said the extension of the runway from 1.4km to 2.5km would cost Sh2 billion. “The expansion of the runway is crucial as it would enable the airport handle bigger planes and boost tourist arrivals in Kilifi County,” he said. Other work includes the expansion of the taxiway, control tower, fire and meteorology stations.

According to Malindi Airport manager, Walter Agong, the facility can currently handle only aircraft with a capacity of 90 passengers. He said the longer runway would enable it to accommodate bigger aircraft such as Boeing 737-600s with a capacity of 150 passengers.

Last year, the airport received 150 000 passengers but after expansion it is expected to receive 400 000 passengers annually by 2020.