The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) on Thursday came under strong criticism after disclosing plans to establish a terminal to accommodate charter flights, a move aimed at luring wealthy tourists.
Mohammed Hersi, the former Kenya Tourism Federation Chairperson took a swipe at KAA, insisting that the Authority could have first sorted out the situation at the Kenyan airports before moving to target affluent visitors.
“Can we first ensure that all the basics work at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Moi International Airport, Wilson, Kisumu, Malindi and Diani airports,” claimed Mohammed Hersi.
“Enough scanners, only in Kenya do we insist on scanning all baggage at the hall. This is done in the back area of other airports globally. Reduce the drama, Kenya is not the only destination in the world,” he added.
Hersi while commenting on the plan, stated that KAA should first establish ample and safe parking, provide enough lighting, and a construct sheltered walkway for passengers.
"How come sheltered walkways are always an afterthought?” Clean working washrooms 24/7 and baby diaper changing counters. I saw great improvement at JKIA. I guess the old useless cleaning firm was fired. Mombasa has always been clean," stated the ex-Tourism Federation chairperson.
“Get rid of misbehaving policemen hiding behind pillars to catch a new international arrival desperate for a cigarette. Decency is to point them to the smoking booths not threaten them with arrest. Pouncing on a haggard tired visitor is bad manners.”
Adding to his suggestions, Hersi proposed the establishment of a smoking booth and further recommended the scrapping of plainclothes officers at the airport.
"Decency is to point them to the smoking booths not threaten them with arrest. Pouncing on a haggard tired visitor is bad manners," Hersi stated.
KAA, through an op-ed published by People Daily, claimed charter flights offer a unique blend of exclusivity, flexibility, and convenience, setting them apart from commercial airlines.
According to the Authority, the special terminals will provide a seamless and personalised travel experience for passengers arriving on private charters. They will also boast expedited security checks leading to exclusive lounges, designed to provide comfort and convenience.
"Kenya must align seamlessly with the global trend of airports by investing in infrastructure to meet the rising demand for private charter flights," KAA stated.
