Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) has been honored as the African Cargo Airport of the Year at the prestigious STAT Times International Awards for Excellence in Air Cargo. This recognition highlights JKIA’s critical role in enhancing trade and logistics across Africa.
The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) acknowledged the award as a significant milestone for Kenya’s largest airport, emphasizing its dedication to operational efficiency and improvements in cargo handling. According to recent data, JKIA handled 112,000 tonnes of cargo in the first quarter of 2024, reinforcing its position as a major cargo hub on the continent. In 2023, the airport processed 372,249 tonnes of cargo, solidifying its leadership in the industry.
Cargo operations
The airport’s cargo operations are also vital to Kenya’s economy. In 2023, Kenya Airways (KQ) earned Ksh12.46 billion from cargo transport, accounting for 7% of its total revenue of Ksh178 billion. JKIA has surpassed major African airports, including Cairo International Airport (Egypt) and O.R. Tambo International Airport (South Africa), in cargo handling. However, on a global scale, its cargo volumes remain lower than the world’s busiest hubs. In 2023, Hong Kong International Airport led globally with over 4.3 million metric tonnes of cargo, significantly higher than JKIA’s figures.
This award adds to JKIA’s growing reputation. In October 2024, the airport was recognized as Africa’s Leading Airport at the World Travel Awards, triumphing over competitors such as Cape Town International Airport (South Africa) among others.
Meanwhile, Tanzania was named Africa’s Leading Destination, reflecting the region’s growing influence in global travel and logistics. JKIA’s latest recognition strengthens its status as Africa’s premier cargo hub, a key player in global trade, and a driver of Kenya’s economic growth.