Members of the National Assembly’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee have encouraged the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) to speed up infrastructure upgrades and runway rehabilitation at Wilson Airport. They highlighted that delays are disrupting operations and leading to financial losses for aviation stakeholders.
During an inspection visit on June 16, 2026, committee chair George Kariuki and other lawmakers met with officials from the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace and the Kenya Association of Air Operators. They voiced concerns that slow construction is inconveniencing both aircraft operators and passengers at the country’s busiest domestic airport.
This meeting followed the committee’s earlier request for a thorough update on the airport’s operations and ongoing development projects. KAA Managing Director Moses Wekesa and Aviation Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika reported that rehabilitation on runways 14/32 and 07 is 38% complete, slightly below the 40% target. They attributed delays to a late project start and unexpected waterlogged conditions that expanded the work scope.
The Ksh1.4 billion project aims to enhance aircraft movement and safety while reducing pavement deterioration. Despite these explanations, lawmakers insisted that the contractor must accelerate progress to minimize disruptions.
“We envision Wilson Airport as a model hub that can support Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. If issues arise at JKIA, aircraft should land here. Let’s focus on improving Wilson; we can’t afford losses,” said Kariuki.
The committee also reviewed a report on aviation incidents at the airport over the past two years, discussing causes, investigations, and preventive measures. Ruaraka MP TJ Kajwang’ suggested reforms in accident investigations, advocating for independent oversight instead of relying solely on KAA or the State Department.
Concerns about land encroachment around Wilson Airport were also raised, with Kirinyaga Central MP Eng. John Kiragu requesting the airport’s master plan to evaluate land use and protection strategies.
In response, KAA Managing Director Wekesa assured the committee of ongoing stakeholder engagement and diligent monitoring of the contractor. “Honourable Chair, please bear with us. We are committed to completing the project within the 18-month timeline, and we’re currently in the ninth month,” he stated.
PS Mbaika expressed gratitude for the committee’s support in fostering growth in the aviation sector, assuring that all ongoing projects will meet deadlines and that stakeholder concerns will be addressed.
Timely completion of the rehabilitation works at Wilson Airport is crucial, as it serves as a vital hub for domestic flights, charter services, flight training, and emergency operations.
