Best Guide to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Nairobi

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), also known as Nairobi International Airport or JKIA Kenya, is the primary gateway to Kenya and East Africa’s busiest aviation hub.

Located just 15-18 km southeast of Nairobi‘s city center, JKIA serves millions of passengers annually, connecting travelers to domestic, regional, and international destinations. As the main hub for Kenya Airways, it plays a crucial role in facilitating tourism, business travel, and cargo operations across the continent.

With ongoing expansions aiming for over 25 million passengers by the mid-2020s, JKIA continues to solidify its position as a key player in African aviation.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Location & Overview

Where is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport located? JKIA is situated in Embakasi, approximately 15 km from Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). This strategic location makes it easily accessible while providing ample space for operations. The airport’s IATA code is NBO, and its ICAO code is HKJK.

Managed by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), JKIA is Kenya’s largest and busiest airport, handling over 70% of the country’s passenger traffic. It features modern infrastructure with plans for further development, including a new terminal and second runway under the 2025–2045 master plan to enhance capacity and compete with regional hubs like Addis Ababa and Doha.

Terminals at JKIA

JKIA operates with two main terminal complexes divided into several units for efficient passenger flow:

• Terminal 1A: Primarily for Kenya Airways and SkyTeam alliance international departures and arrivals. This is the most modern section with high capacity.
• Terminal 1B and 1C: Handle international departures for non-SkyTeam airlines, including many European and Middle Eastern carriers.
• Terminal 1E: Dedicated to international arrivals.
• Terminal 2: Used for domestic flights and low-cost regional carriers, including Jambojet and other budget airlines.

Terminals are within walking distance, with shuttle services available airside for connections.

Airlines & Destinations

JKIA hosts over 40 passenger airlines, making it a vital connection point. Major airlines at JKIA include:

• Kenya Airways (hub carrier, SkyTeam member)
• Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines
• British Airways, Lufthansa, KLM, Air France
• Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways
• Low-cost: Jambojet, Fly540

Destinations cover Europe (London, Paris, Amsterdam), Middle East (Dubai, Doha), Asia, and extensive African routes, plus domestic flights to Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret. Search for “airlines at JKIA” or “flights from Nairobi JKIA” for real-time schedules on the official KAA website.

Arrivals & Departures Information

Upon arrival, international passengers proceed through immigration, baggage claim (with trolleys provided free), and customs. Domestic connections require passport control. Flight information displays are available throughout, and the KAA app or website helps track delays.

For departures, check-in opens 3 hours for international and 2 hours for domestic flights. Self-check-in kiosks are available for select airlines like Kenya Airways.

Visa, Immigration & Customs

As of 2025, most travelers require a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) applied online via the official portal (etakenya.go.ke) before arrival. The eTA costs around $34 USD, is valid for 90 days, and is mandatory for tourism, business, or transit (except certain exemptions like EAC citizens).

Immigration involves eTA verification and passport checks. Customs rules prohibit certain items (e.g., plastics, excessive cash without declaration); declare goods via Form F88. Yellow fever vaccination may be required from endemic areas. For details on “Kenya visa at JKIA” or “JKIA immigration process,” visit official sites.

Airport Facilities & Services

JKIA offers traveler-friendly amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi: Connect to “JKIA Free Wi-Fi” across terminals.
• Currency Exchange & ATMs: Multiple bureaus and banks.
• SIM Cards: Vendors in arrivals for local data.
• Lounges: Simba Lounge (Kenya Airways), Pride Lounge, Turkish Airlines Lounge, and paid options like Swissport Aspire.
• Medical Services & Prayer Rooms: Available for health needs and multi-faith prayer.
• Duty-Free Shopping: Wide selection of perfumes, electronics, and Kenyan souvenirs.

Transport From & To JKIA

Getting to/from JKIA is straightforward:

• Taxis: Official yellow airport taxis (KES 1,500–3,000 to CBD).
• Ride-Hailing: Uber, Bolt, and Little Cab – affordable and convenient; pick-up at designated areas.
• Shuttles/Buses: Hotel shuttles or public options like bus line 34.
• Car Rentals: Desks in terminals.
• Transfer times: 30-60 minutes to CBD, longer to Westlands or Karen due to traffic.

Hotels Near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

Options range from on-site luxury to budget:

• Luxury: Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport, Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport.
• Mid-Range: PrideInn Plaza, Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi Airport.
• Budget: Various homestays and transit hotels nearby.

Many offer free shuttles. Search “hotels near JKIA” or “airport hotels in Nairobi” for bookings.

Connecting Flights & Transit Tips

Minimum connection time: 1-2 hours for domestic, longer for international. Baggage is usually transferred automatically for through-tickets. Transit eTA may be needed; no visa for airside stays under certain conditions. For overnight layovers, use nearby hotels or lounges.

Travel Tips for JKIA Passengers

• Arrive 3 hours early for international flights.
• Peak hours: Early mornings and evenings.
• Security: Standard checks; remove liquids.
• Safety: Use official transport; exchange money at banks.
• Currency: Kenyan Shilling; tipping optional but appreciated.

JKIA Parking Information

Short-term and long-term options available. Rates vary by duration and vehicle type (e.g., hourly for drop-off, daily for extended). Lost ticket fee: KES 1,000. Clamping for overstays. Pay digitally via USSD. Search “JKIA parking fees” for latest on KAA site.

FAQs about Jomo Kenyatta International Airport 

Where is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport located?

In Embakasi, 15 km from Nairobi CBD.

How far is JKIA from Nairobi city center?

About 15-18 km, 30-60 minutes by road.

What is the airport code for JKIA?

IATA: NBO; ICAO: HKJK.

Does JKIA have free Wi-Fi?

Yes, connect to “JKIA Free Wi-Fi.”

Is JKIA open 24 hours?

Yes, operations run around the clock.

For more, visit the official Kenya Airports Authority website (kaa.go.ke) or the eTA portal.

Conclusion

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) offers a seamless experience as your entry to Kenya’s vibrant capital and stunning safaris. Whether arriving for business or leisure, plan your transfers, book a nearby hotel, or secure your eTA in advance. Start your Kenyan adventure right—explore Nairobi’s sights or head straight to a safari package. Safe travels!