A Guide to Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport [NBO]

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport  [NBO] JKIA

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is not only the busiest airport in East Africa but also serves as a vital gateway to Kenya and the African continent. Located just 15 kilometers from Nairobi’s city center, NBO connects travelers to numerous international and domestic destinations, making it a hub for both business and leisure travelers.

How to get to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

To reach Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) from Nairobi, you have several transportation options:

1. Driving:

• Route: JKIA is approximately 17 kilometers southeast of Nairobi’s central business district. The primary access is via Mombasa Road (A109), leading directly to the airport entrance.
• Nairobi Expressway: This toll road connects JKIA to Nairobi’s Westlands area, offering a faster route by bypassing city traffic. Toll fees apply, and the expressway is accessible from various points along Mombasa Road.

2. Public Transportation:

• Buses (Matatus): Local buses, such as Route 34J, operate between Nairobi’s city center and JKIA. These are cost-effective but may be less convenient for travelers with significant luggage.
• Airport Shuttles: Some hotels and private companies offer shuttle services to and from the airport. It’s advisable to arrange these in advance.

3. Taxis and Ride-Sharing:

• Registered Taxis: Official taxi services operate at JKIA, with booking desks available at the airport. Fares to the city center typically range from KSH 2,500 to 3,000, depending on traffic and time of day.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Platforms like Uber and Bolt are available in Nairobi and can be used to travel to and from JKIA. Fares vary based on demand and distance.

4. Rail:

• Nairobi Commuter Rail: A rail link connects Nairobi’s central business district to JKIA, offering an alternative to road transport. Schedules and availability may vary, so it’s recommended to check in advance.

Tips:

• Travel Time: Allocate sufficient time for your journey, considering potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours.
• Safety: Use reputable transportation services and remain vigilant with your belongings.
• Navigation: Utilize GPS or map services to monitor your route and estimated arrival time.

By selecting the option that best suits your needs, you can ensure a smooth journey to JKIA.

Nairobi Airport Map

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, Kenya, features a central circular design that optimizes passenger movement and access to facilities. This configuration includes the main terminals 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E, strategically positioned around a central hub to facilitate efficient transit and minimize walking distances. 

NBO Terminal Layout:

• Terminal 1A: Dedicated to international arrivals and departures.
• Terminals 1B and 1C: Primarily handle international departures.
• Terminal 1D: Serves domestic flights.
• Terminal 1E: Functions as an international arrivals terminal.
• Terminal 2: Caters to low-cost carriers and regional flights.

The circular layout ensures that passengers can easily navigate between terminals, enhancing the overall travel experience. Additionally, the terminals are designed with close proximity to the runways, allowing for quick access and reduced taxiing times for aircraft. This thoughtful design not only boosts operational efficiency but also improves passenger convenience, making JKIA a key aviation hub in East Africa.

Visit the Kenya Airports Authority for more information.

Which Terminal is for International Flights in Nairobi

At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, international flights primarily operate through the following terminals:

• Terminal 1A: Dedicated to international arrivals and departures for major airlines.
• Terminals 1B and 1C: Mainly handle international departures for other airlines.
• Terminal 1E: Functions as the terminal for international arrivals.

Each terminal is designed to cater to different aspects of international travel, ensuring smooth operations and passenger flow.

Which Terminal is for Domestic Flights in Nairobi

At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, domestic flights operate primarily through:

• Terminal 1D: This terminal is dedicated to handling domestic arrivals and departures within Kenya.

If you’re traveling domestically, this is the terminal where you will check in and board your flight.

Lounges at the Airport

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi offers a variety of lounges across its terminals, providing travelers with comfortable spaces to relax, dine, and work before their flights. Below is a comprehensive overview of the available lounges:

Terminal 1A:

• Kenya Airways Pride Lounge:

  • Location: Terminal 1A, Airside, near Gate 17.
  • Access: Available to Kenya Airways Business Class passengers, SkyTeam Elite Plus members, and through lounge membership programs like Priority Pass.
  • Amenities: Offers a variety of food and drinks, shower facilities, comfortable seating areas, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
    Kenya Airways

• Kenya Airways Simba Lounge:

  • Location: Terminal 1A, Airside, near Gate 17.
  • Access: Open to Business Class passengers of various airlines, including KLM, Air France, and Qatar Airways, as well as Priority Pass members.
  • Amenities: Provides a selection of food and beverages, shower facilities, comfortable seating, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
    Kenya Airways

Terminal 1B:

• Aspire Lounge:

  • Location: Terminal 1B, Airside, opposite Gate 11.
  • Access: Open to all passengers for a fee; walk-ins accepted based on capacity.
  • Amenities: Features a variety of food and drinks, comfortable seating areas, complimentary Wi-Fi, and flight information screens.

Terminal 1C:

• Kenya Airways Simba Lounge:

  • Location: Terminal 1C, Airside.
  • Access: Open to Business Class passengers of various airlines, including KLM, Air France, and Qatar Airways, as well as Priority Pass members.
  • Amenities: Offers a variety of food and drinks, comfortable seating areas, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Terminal 1D:

• Kenya Airways Msafiri Lounge:

  • Location: Terminal 1D, Airside.
  • Access: Accessible to Business Class passengers of specific airlines and Priority Pass members.
  • Amenities: Provides a variety of food and drinks, comfortable seating areas, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

• Plaza Premium Lounge:

  • Location: Terminal 1D, Airside, Level 2, next to Gate 4.
  • Access: Available to all passengers for a fee; walk-ins accepted based on capacity.
  • Amenities: Features premium food and beverages, shower facilities, comfortable seating areas, complimentary Wi-Fi, children’s room, prayer room, and flight information monitors.

Terminal 1E:

• Turkish Airlines Star Alliance Lounge:

  • Location: Terminal 1E, Airside.
  • Access: Exclusive to Turkish Airlines Business Class passengers and Miles & Smiles Elite Plus members.
  • Amenities: Offers a variety of food and drinks, including Turkish specialties, comfortable seating areas, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Terminal 2:

• Tradewinds Aviation Mara Lounge:

  • Location: Terminal 2, Airside, Level 1.
  • Access: Accessible to passengers of specific airlines and Priority Pass members.
  • Amenities: Provides a variety of food and drinks, comfortable seating areas, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

• Tradewinds Aviation Mt. Kenya Lounge:

  • Location: Terminal 2, Airside, Level 1.
  • Access: Accessible to passengers of specific airlines and Priority Pass members.
  • Amenities: Offers a variety of food and drinks, comfortable seating areas, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

These lounges at JKIA provide a range of amenities designed to enhance the travel experience, offering serene and comfortable environments for passengers to relax, work, or refresh before their flights.

Airlines Flying Out of NBO

Several airlines operate from Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, including:

• Kenya Airways (KQ): The national carrier of Kenya, offering extensive domestic and international routes.
• Jambojet (JM): A low-cost subsidiary of Kenya Airways, focusing on domestic destinations.
• Fly540: Provides regional flights within East Africa.
• African Express Airways: Operates regional flights across East Africa.
• Ethiopian Airlines (ET): Offers flights to Addis Ababa and connections beyond.
• RwandAir (WB): Connects Nairobi with Kigali and other African cities.
• EgyptAir (MS): Provides services to Cairo and other destinations.
• South African Airways (SA): Operates flights to Johannesburg.
• Air Tanzania (TC): Offers flights to Dar es Salaam and other Tanzanian cities.
• Precision Air (PW): Connects Nairobi with various destinations in Tanzania.
• Air Mauritius (MK): Provides flights to Mauritius.
• Air Seychelles (HM): Offers services to the Seychelles.
• LAM Mozambique Airlines (TM): Operates flights to Maputo.
• Uganda Airlines (UR): Connects Nairobi with Entebbe.
• Airlink (4Z): Provides regional flights within Southern Africa.
• Fastjet (FN): Offers low-cost flights within Africa.
• Proflight Zambia (P0): Connects Nairobi with Lusaka.
• TAAG Angola Airlines (DT): Operates flights to Luanda.
• Royal Air Maroc (AT): Provides services to Casablanca.
• Libyan Airlines (LN): Offers flights to Tripoli.
• Somon Air (SZ): Connects Nairobi with Dushanbe.
• Air Arabia (G9): Provides low-cost flights to Sharjah and beyond.
• Flydubai (FZ): Offers services to Dubai.
• Qatar Airways (QR): Connects Nairobi with Doha and numerous international destinations.
• Emirates (EK): Provides flights to Dubai and onward connections.
• Turkish Airlines (TK): Offers services to Istanbul and beyond.
• Lufthansa (LH): Connects Nairobi with Frankfurt.
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL): Provides flights to Amsterdam.
• British Airways (BA): Offers services to London.
• Air France (AF): Connects Nairobi with Paris.
• Swiss International Air Lines (LX): Provides flights to Zurich.
• Brussels Airlines (SN): Offers services to Brussels.
• Saudia (SV): Connects Nairobi with Jeddah and Riyadh.
• Oman Air (WY): Provides flights to Muscat.
• China Southern Airlines (CZ): Offers services to Guangzhou.
• Air India (AI): Connects Nairobi with Mumbai.
• IndiGo (6E): Provides low-cost flights to India.
• Singapore Airlines (SQ): Offers services to Singapore.
• Korean Air (KE): Connects Nairobi with Seoul.
• Cathay Pacific (CX): Provides flights to Hong Kong.
• Malaysia Airlines (MH): Offers services to Kuala Lumpur.
• Thai Airways (TG): Connects Nairobi with Bangkok.
• Japan Airlines (JL): Provides flights to Tokyo.
• Asiana Airlines (OZ): Offers services to Seoul.
• Vietnam Airlines (VN): Connects Nairobi with Hanoi.
• Philippine Airlines (PR): Provides flights to Manila.
• Garuda Indonesia (GA): Offers services to Jakarta.
• SriLankan Airlines (UL): Connects Nairobi with Colombo.
• Bangkok Airways (PG): Provides regional flights within Southeast Asia.
• Air Austral (UU): Offers services to Réunion.
• Air Madagascar (MD): Connects Nairobi with Antananarivo.
• Air Namibia (SW): Provides flights to Windhoek.
• Air Zimbabwe (UM): Offers services to Harare.
• Eritrean Airlines (B8): Connects Nairobi with Asmara.
• Ewa Air (ZD): Provides flights to Mayotte.
• LAM Mozambique Airlines (TM): Offers services to Maputo.
• Mauritania Airlines (L6): Connects Nairobi with Nouakchott.
• RwandAir (WB): Provides flights to Kigali.
• South African Airways (SA): Offers services to Johannesburg.
• TAAG Angola Airlines (DT): Connects Nairobi with Luanda.
• Tunisair (TU): Provides flights to Tunis.
• Uganda Airlines (UR): Offers services to Entebbe.
• Zambia Airways (ZN): Connects Nairobi with Lusaka.

This extensive list highlights the diverse range of airlines operating from JKIA, facilitating connectivity across Africa and the globe.

JKIA Parking

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi offers a variety of parking options to accommodate travelers’ needs. Here’s an overview of the available parking facilities and their respective rates:

Parking Options:

1. Express Parking Lots:

   • Location: Closest to the terminals, providing both covered and uncovered spaces.
   • Rates:
     • 0–30 minutes: KSH 100
     • 30 minutes–1 hour: KSH 150
     • 1–2 hours: KSH 200
     • 2–4 hours: KSH 300
     • 4–8 hours: KSH 400
     • 8–12 hours: KSH 500
     • 12–24 hours: KSH 750
     • Above 24 hours: KSH 1,000 per day
   • Note: These rates apply to saloon cars, minivans, and pickups.

2. Remote Parking Lots:

   • Location: Within walking distance from the terminals, offering a more economical option.
   • Rates:
     • 0–30 minutes: KSH 150
     • 30 minutes–1 hour: KSH 200
     • 1–2 hours: KSH 300
     • 2–4 hours: KSH 400
     • 4–8 hours: KSH 500
     • 8–12 hours: KSH 750
     • 12–24 hours: KSH 1,000
     • Above 24 hours: KSH 1,250 per day
   • Note: These rates apply to saloon cars, minivans, and pickups.

3. Oversized Vehicle Parking:

   • Description: Designated areas for buses and trucks, located near the Parking Garage, Terminal 2, and Cargo Area.
   • Rates:
     • 0–30 minutes: KSH 150
     • 30 minutes–1 hour: KSH 200
     • 1–2 hours: KSH 300
     • 2–4 hours: KSH 400
     • 4–8 hours: KSH 500
     • 8–12 hours: KSH 750
     • 12–24 hours: KSH 1,000
     • Above 24 hours: KSH 1,250 per day
   • Note: These rates apply to buses and trucks.

4. Drop-Off and Pick-Up Points:

   • Rates:
     • 0–20 minutes: KSH 100
     • 20–40 minutes: KSH 250
     • 40 minutes–1 hour: KSH 350
     • 1–2 hours: KSH 500
   • Note: Vehicles are allowed a maximum of two hours in these zones. Exceeding this limit may result in penalties.

Payment Methods:

• M-PESA: To pay via M-PESA, dial 48612# on your Safaricom line, enter your parking ticket number, confirm the amount, and authorize the payment with your M-PESA PIN.
• RFID System: JKIA utilizes a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system for seamless entry and exit. Vehicles equipped with RFID chips can use designated lanes, allowing for automatic scanning and quick passage.

Additional Information:

• Lost Ticket Fee: A non-refundable fee of KSH 1,000 applies for lost parking tickets.
• Maximum Parking Duration: There is a 14-day cap on parking duration. Vehicles exceeding this period may be towed.

For the most current information, it’s advisable to consult the Kenya Airports Authority’s official website or contact their customer service.

Chauffeur and Private Jet Services at JKIA

Alpha Corporate Chauffeur Services enhances the travel experience at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport with premium transportation options:

• Chauffeur Services:
  • Mercedes S-Class: Luxurious sedan for executive travel.
  • Mercedes V-Class: Spacious van for groups or families.
  • Land Cruiser V8: Ideal for rough terrains and comfort.
  • Toyota Corolla: Reliable and economical option.
  • Toyota Alphard: High-end van for premium travel experiences.
• Worldwide Private Jet Charters: Benefit from free luxury airport transfers upon arrival, seamlessly combined with customized private flights to destinations worldwide
• Close Protection Services with Chase Cars: Ensuring the safety and security of high-profile clients during their travels.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) serves as a key hub for travelers visiting Kenya and beyond. With its modern facilities, numerous airline options, and essential services, NBO is equipped to provide a seamless travel experience. Additionally, Alpha Corporate Chauffeur Services is dedicated to enhancing your journey with top-notch transportation solutions, ensuring you arrive at your destination comfortably and safely.

Travel with confidence, knowing you have all the information you need for a smooth experience at Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport!

FAQ Rich Snippet for Google

1. What is the location of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is located approximately 15 kilometers southeast of Nairobi’s city center.

2. How many terminals does Nairobi airport have?

Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has three main terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3.

3. Which terminal is for international flights in Nairobi?

Terminal 1 is primarily for international flights, while Terminal 3 also accommodates major international airlines.

4. Which terminal is for domestic flights in Nairobi?

Terminal 2 serves both domestic and regional flights.

5. What lounges are available at NBO?

Lounges at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport include the Pinnacle Lounge, Ethiopian Airlines Lounge, and Kenya Airways Lounge.

6. What airlines operate at Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?

Major airlines at NBO include Kenya Airways, British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and South African Airways.

7. What parking options are available at NBO?

NBO offers short-term and long-term parking options for travelers.

8. How long can I leave my car at Nairobi airport?

You can leave your car for up to 24 hours in short-term parking and for several weeks in long-term parking.

9. Is there a shuttle service at NBO?

Yes, shuttle services are available to transport passengers between terminals and nearby hotels.

10. Are there any restaurants or shops at NBO?

Yes, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has various restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shops.

11. What transportation options are available from NBO?

Transportation options include taxis, shuttle services, and chauffeur services from companies like Alpha Corporate Chauffeur Services.

12. Can I book a private jet from NBO?

Yes, you can book worldwide private jet charters through various service providers, including Alpha Corporate Chauffeur Services.

13. Is there Wi-Fi available at Nairobi airport?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport for passengers.

14. What are the security procedures at NBO?

Passengers must undergo security screening, including baggage checks and body scanners, before boarding their flights.

15. Are there any medical facilities at NBO?

Yes, there are medical facilities and first aid services available at the airport.

16. Can I exchange currency at NBO?

Yes, currency exchange services are available at the airport.

17. What should I do if I lose my luggage at NBO?

Report the loss to your airline’s baggage service desk immediately for assistance.

18. Is there a place for children to play at NBO?

Yes, there are designated play areas for children at the airport.

19. Can I access lounges if I am not a first-class passenger?

Yes, some lounges allow access for economy class passengers with a fee or through lounge membership programs.

20. How early should I arrive at NBO before my flight?

It is recommended to arrive at least 2-3 hours before international flights and 1-2 hours before domestic flights.