The long-anticipated expansion of Malindi International Airport is back in focus with the national and Kilifi County governments confirming renewed discussions to revive the stalled project.
Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano said the project is part of Kenya’s broader aviation and tourism agenda.
“There are ongoing discussions between stakeholders, Kilifi County and national government to expand Malindi International Airport to enhance air access to the coast,” she said.
For decades, Malindi, one of Kenya’s oldest coastal towns, has struggled with an underdeveloped airport. Its existing facilities can only handle small aircraft, forcing international visitors to fly via Mombasa or Nairobi and then take domestic connections or long road transfers.
This logistical challenge has slowed tourism recovery despite the town’s scenic beaches, rich Swahili culture and strong appeal to European travellers.
The airport’s limitations have also affected local investment and employment. Many hotels and tour operators have scaled down operations due to high operational costs and poor accessibility. The proposed expansion, which would accommodate larger aircraft like Boeing 737s, could transform Malindi into a competitive coastal gateway, complementing Mombasa and Lamu.
Plans and benefits
Plans include extending the runway, modernising the terminal and upgrading navigational systems to meet international standards. Once completed, the airport is expected to support direct charter flights from Europe, the Middle East and Africa, reducing travel times and attracting high-end travellers and investors.
Analysts predict the expansion could generate a multiplier effect on Kilifi’s economy – boosting hotels, creating jobs and increasing tourist spending. It could also reduce pressure on Mombasa’s Moi International Airport, dispersing tourism benefits more evenly along the coast.
However, stakeholders stress that timely implementation and transparency are critical. Previous expansion attempts faltered due to compensation disputes and bureaucratic delays.
Stakeholders welcome development
Mohamed Hersi, Group Director of Operations for Pollmans Tours and Safaris, said: “While Malindi boasts stunning beaches and historic sites like the Gede Ruins and Virgin Island, limited flights and outdated airport facilities have kept large incentive and conference groups away.”
An upgraded airport could support weekly international arrivals from key markets such as Milan or Dubai, significantly boosting the town’s MICE potential, he added.
Håvar Bauck, founder of HotelOnline Africa, believes expansion of the airport is long overdue. “Extending the runway, upgrading the terminal and enlarging the apron are key to attracting direct international flights. Malindi, Watamu and Mambrui could see a tourism and investment boom once this happens,” he said.
“If the airport can start attracting direct international flights, the entire area is likely to experience an investment boom that will last for many years. It will transform coastal tourism in Kenya.”
Currently, the airport requires a 1.4km runway extension to accommodate fully loaded larger aircraft. Fly Dubai, for instance, is ready to operate flights but cannot do so until the runway can handle full loads.
Roberto Marini, Chairman of Ocean Beach Resort Malindi, said competitive airfares will be crucial to the airport’s success.
“Currently, low-cost carriers are expensive in Africa unlike Europe where they fly freely between multiple destinations. Once Malindi can handle two daily Fly Dubai flights, the region will transform – boosting tourism, employment and investment,” he said.
He highlighted the need for infrastructure improvements across the country, noting that, while airports like Kakamega are being upgraded, Malindi should be a priority.
With proper facilities, Marini argued, Malindi could compete with renovated regional destinations such as Zanzibar. “The airport expansion is seen not just as a tourism necessity but as vital for the town’s economic survival.”
