The refurbishment of Moi International Airport in Mombasa has finally started with authorities projecting completion by next month.
The Kes 7 billion restoration works were interrupted by the outbreak of Coronavirus last year. The project, which is being funded by the French Development Agency will see the rehabilitation of the airfield ground lighting system and aircraft pavement.
Kenya Airport Authority (KAA) acting managing director Alex Gitari said the works, which were originally meant to be completed in December last year were delayed and pushed to March 2021, due to the Covid-19 health protocols as the mitigation measures such as curfew reduced construction hours.
“The Moi International Airport’s rehabilitation works will ensure that all pavements offer safe operations to aircraft and avoidance of operational delays and disruptions occasioned by poor airfield ground lighting,” said Mr Gitari
The rehabilitation of the airport will involve replacing the existing airfield ground lighting systems and all approach lighting masts from steel to fiberglass. The upgraded pavements will have a sustainable maintenance regime to keep the runway and aprons in good condition throughout the 20 years design life, and also ensure the airport land is neither undermined, nor destroyed due to unstable ground. It will also enhance airport’s green rating through rainwater harvesting. – BD
