Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced five major changes at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Airport aimed at improving the delivery of services to passengers.
In a statement dated Thursday, the CS revealed that he has directed the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) to acquire new 3D scanners, which will end the need for officials to open travellers' bags.
The high-tech gadgets produce 3D X-ray images and are similar to CT scanners used in hospitals. CT Scans use a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce images of the internal organs in the body.
New 3D scanners will enable airport staff to zoom in on a bag's contents and analyse the images in 360°.
The CS also ordered the replacement of the roofs at terminal buildings 1B, 1C and 1D following the leakages that were recorded by passengers last month.
He further noted that the new directive will ensure the comfort of the passengers and protect their luggage.
On the other hand, he directed KAA to ensure that there is fastened and efficient processing of passengers to avoid scenarios where Kenyans miss their flights or have to wait in long queues in the process.
Other orders issued related to the erection of canopies on critical walkways, provision of adequate sanitary facilities and provision of additional secondary backup generators.
“These airports are threatened by upcoming development around them which pose safety concerns both for passengers, and the people living in these areas. I have instructed KCAA and KAA to do a comprehensive report on the structures around it with a view of security the airport lands,” the CS directed.
Wilson Airport
At Wilson Airport, the CS directed KAA to ensure that there is provision of drop-off and pickup areas for passengers.
Murkomen also ordered that the airport's management start offering primary screening of the passengers to enhance the safety of the passengers and the airports.
“I have therefore directed the Kenya Airports Authority to commence the process of building a passenger terminal building at Wilson or acquire existing hangers, especially those whose leases have come to an end in order to ease congestion at the airport, in the interim.
“In addition, despite numerous contracts for the rehabilitation of the pavements at Wilson, the airport is full of patchwork, potholes and cracks. I therefore direct KAA to completely reconstruct the pavement and the runway," he directed.
More changes are expected to be unveiled in December when a full report of the state of the airports is released.
