Does Kisumu have an international airport?

Yes, Kisumu boasts an international airport, which has the IATA code KIS. It is among the busiest airports in Kenya, often ranking just behind Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Mombasa’s Moi International Airport in passenger volumes. The airport, which is located on the shores of Lake Victoria, plays a critical role in connecting the western part of Kenya with the rest of Kenya and the East African nations in the area.

Overview

The airport is also accessible, as it is only 5 kilometers from the Kisumu city center. It started as a small airstrip. It was upgraded to international status in 2011 to enhance air travel. The upgrade included a longer runway, a modern terminal, and improved cargo facilities

Domestic and Regional Connections

The major airlines like Kenya Airways, Jambojet, Safarilink, and Fly540 provide scheduled flights from Kisumu International Airport to the three main cities of the country: Nairobi, Mombasa, and Eldoret. 

Even though the majority of the flights are domestic, the airport sometimes operates charter and regional flights to places like Entebbe and Juba, mainly for trade, tourism, and government activities.

Facilities and Services

The airport has a modern passenger terminal built during the 2011 upgrade, offering lounges, cafés, and cargo facilities.

It is also a horticultural trade and fish export center, which is facilitated by a favorable strategic location, close to Lake Victoria.

Future Development

There are also current plans by Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) to continue expanding the runway of the airport, improve the cargo facilities as well, and attract scheduled flights to destinations across East and Central Africa. These improvements will see Kisumu emerge as a complete regional gateway in the next few years.

Conclusion

Kisumu has a fully operational international airport. It is currently used in the operation of primarily domestic flights, but its expanding facilities, customs capacity, and regional significance have made it one of the most promising aviation hubs in Kenya.

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