Nairobi, Kenya – May 13, 2025 — A newly published report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has shed light on the substantial contribution of Kenya’s aviation sector to the national economy. The report, titled the Value of Air Transport, estimates that the aviation industry generated approximately Ksh425 billion (roughly USD 3.3 billion) in economic output in 2023. This figure represents 3.1% of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and encompasses the broader economic influence of the industry, including indirect impacts across the supply chain, expenditures by employees, and tourism-related activities made possible through air travel.
The study also highlighted the employment power of aviation in Kenya, indicating that the sector supports a total of 460,000 jobs nationwide. This includes both direct and indirect employment, such as individuals working in airport operations, airline services, logistics, tourism, and other affiliated sectors. Out of this total, around 5,700 individuals are directly employed by airlines operating within the country.
In addition to passenger transport, Kenya’s air cargo segment plays a crucial role in trade and logistics. In 2023, the country handled approximately 380,000 tonnes of freight by air, earning Kenya a place among the top global cargo markets—ranked 35th in the world. This makes the aviation industry not only vital for people movement but also a key facilitator of commerce and international business.
The release of the IATA report coincides with a major milestone for Kenya’s aviation sector—the hosting of the 37th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in Nairobi. This is the first time the prestigious global event is being held on African soil, signaling international recognition of Kenya’s rising prominence in aviation. The IGHC brings together key stakeholders from airlines, airport authorities, regulators, ground handling companies, and technology providers to deliberate on current issues and the future of ground operations.
Speaking about the report’s findings, Willie Walsh, Director General of IATA, emphasized the significant value that air transport adds to Kenya’s economy. He noted that with the African aviation market projected to grow by 3.7% annually over the next two decades, the region has tremendous potential to further harness aviation as a driver of development. However, realizing this potential will require deliberate efforts to expand and modernize infrastructure, maintain competitive cost structures, cultivate a highly skilled workforce, and work toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Echoing similar views, Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways, welcomed the report as both timely and insightful. He underscored how hosting the IATA Ground Handling Conference provides an invaluable opportunity for Kenya and its partners to assess current challenges and map out solutions that can unlock further value. According to Kilavuka, emphasis must be placed on enhancing operational efficiency at ground level, investing in workforce training, and aligning ground handling practices with international standards. These efforts, he said, will be essential in cementing Kenya’s position as a regional aviation hub and in maximizing the socio-economic benefits that air transport offers.
As part of its recommendations for advancing the industry, IATA outlined three strategic priority areas for Kenya and other African countries to focus on:
- Infrastructure Development and Optimization: The report stressed the need for close cooperation between airlines and airport authorities to develop and maintain infrastructure that is both modern and cost-effective. Upgrading runways, terminals, ground equipment, and digital systems in line with global benchmarks is necessary to improve efficiency and competitiveness. Strategic investments in these areas will help Kenya solidify its standing as a leading gateway in East Africa.
- Operational Standardization and Safety Assurance: Standardized procedures are fundamental for safe, reliable, and efficient ground operations. IATA highlighted the importance of adopting globally recognized tools such as the Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) and the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO). Notably, in 2024, ISAGO achieved a record number of 400 station accreditations, demonstrating growing industry commitment to safety and compliance while reducing redundancies and operational costs.
- Digitalization and Human Capital Development: The report emphasized that digital transformation and workforce upskilling are critical for the future resilience of Kenya’s aviation sector. Key digital initiatives include the full implementation of the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, which will streamline travel processes and enhance Kenya’s attractiveness as a destination. Additionally, IATA pointed to the importance of building a future-ready workforce equipped with skills in areas like ground operations, maintenance, digital systems, and environmental sustainability. The IATA Regional Training Center in Nairobi, established in collaboration with Kenya Airways, will play a pivotal role in delivering such training and capacity-building programs.
In summary, the IATA study not only highlights the impressive economic footprint of Kenya’s aviation sector but also presents a roadmap for unlocking even greater value in the years ahead. With the right mix of policy support, infrastructure development, and international cooperation, Kenya is well-positioned to become a central player in Africa’s fast-evolving air transport ecosystem.
