Isiolo Airport | Isiolo

Isiolo International Airport (ICAO: HKIS) is a strategically located airport in Isiolo County, Kenya, approximately 283 km northeast of Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. It serves as a key component of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration.

🛬 Airport Overview

Location: Borders Isiolo and Meru counties, situated about 1 km southeast of Isiolo Town.

Elevation: Approximately 3,768 feet (1,148 meters) above sea level.

Runway: Single asphalt runway (16/34) measuring 2,500 meters (8,202 feet), capable of accommodating Code C aircraft such as Boeing 737 and Airbus A320.

Passenger Terminal: Approximately 5,000 m², with a capacity to handle up to 125,000 passengers annually.

Facilities: Includes nine check-in counters, VIP lounge, banking and ATM services, foreign exchange bureaus, and airline offices.

Ownership & Operation: Managed by the Kenya Airports Authority.

🏗️ Development and Upgrades

Phase 1 (2011–2013): Construction of a 1.4 km runway, apron, taxiways, and safety works.

Phase 2 (2013–2016): Development of a new passenger terminal building, car parking area, administration offices, and support facilities.

Phase 3 (2014–2016): Construction of access roads, apron expansion, and drainage systems.

Proposed Upgrades: Plans to extend the runway to 3.5 km, rehabilitate existing pavement, and enhance drainage systems.

✈️ Operations and Connectivity

Current Status: Operational for non-scheduled flights and cargo operations.

Strategic Importance: Part of the LAPSSET Corridor, facilitating trade and travel between Kenya, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Uganda.

Challenges: Runway defects due to flooding and terrain challenges have limited full utilization.

🛠️ Future Prospects

Expansion Plans: Ongoing efforts to secure funding for runway extension, infrastructure development, and operational enhancements.

Economic Impact: Anticipated to boost tourism, trade, and investment in northern Kenya.

Government Support: Prioritized as a key infrastructure project under Kenya Vision 2030.