Kenyans are set for more convenient flight plans as the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) signs a contract for the expansion of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The KES 55 billion deal, dubbed Project Greenfield, will be used to increase the airport’s carrying capacity, thereby reducing congestion in the main terminal. The KAA officially signed off on the deal over the weekend, following a cabinet decision last Thursday.

The expansion will include a new terminal complex as well as a second runway. Going forward, the deal will enable East Africa’s premier aviation hub to cater for growing passenger numbers and flight traffic for the next 20 years.

Aircraft are set to receive new parking spaces from the expansion, which will reduce the current gridlocks that have been causing frequent flight diversions. JKIA’s car park will not be forgotten as the construction will include even more spaces for those with personal vehicles.

Flight diversions and cancellations have been costly for JKIA in the past, racking up expenses of at least KES 2.5 million per flight. The KAA states that the expansion will not only save JKIA money, but it will also save time for passengers arriving and departing to and from the airport.

The ground breaking ceremony has been scheduled for later this year and will be presided over by President Mwai Kibaki.