Tanzania's Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) is aiming for a major overhaul, aiming to improve the travel experience and increase connectivity for visitors to the country's famous natural attractions.
The Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) recently signed a contract with Chinese company Stecol Corporation to strengthen the airport's infrastructure, representing large investments in Tanzania's tourism industry.
This strategic upgrade will include modernizing the KIA runway and implementing an advanced aircraft guidance lighting system. These improvements are essential for safer landings and takeoffs, particularly in challenging weather conditions, and will increase the overall operational efficiency of the airport. This leads to a reliable and improved travel experience for clients visiting famous Tanzania destinations.
Kia serves as a major gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park and other popular tourist attractions in northern Tanzania. Its strategic location establishes it as an important hub for both national and international travelers. This upgrade will further strengthen our ability to accommodate more and more tourists.
The Tanzanian government is actively promoting public-private partnerships to promote infrastructure development and stimulate economic growth. The KIA project exemplifies this strategy to leverage the expertise of reputable international companies to enhance key elements of the country's tourism infrastructure.
The airport's passenger volume is growing consistently, reaching approximately 800,000 passengers a year. With the expected increase in tourism to Tanzania, KIA upgrades are timely and essential to meet passenger traffic forecasts. The forecast suggests potential growth to 1.5 million passengers by 2030, highlighting the importance of investing in airport infrastructure.
The upgrade project is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2025 and is expected to be completed within 18 months. TAA and Stecol Corporation are committed to minimizing disruption during the construction phase, ensuring that KIA continues to operate smoothly and efficiently. This commitment underscores the importance of maintaining a seamless travel experience for visitors while enhancing the long-term capabilities of the airport.
