Passengers transiting Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) can now expect greater security and reduced inconvenience with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) rollout of a new-generation aircraft recovery system.
The new system the continent’s first will recover stranded planes quickly and safely from runways and taxiways cutting on delays as well as improving emergency response.
Commissioned last Friday June 27, the system will significantly enhance JKIA operations which remain the country’s busiest airport.
The commissioning ceremony was performed by KAA Chairman Caleb Kositany, who announced the new equipment is a huge milestone in enhancing safety and efficiency.
“This is a big milestone for us and the aviation industry at large. With this system, we’ll now be able to respond faster and better, cutting delays and ensuring safer airport operations,” said Kositany.
The system was supplied by AMS Aircraft Recovery Ltd from the United Kingdom. It features advanced over-wing lift tools and can be deployed rapidly in case of an incident.
Also present during the occasion were KAA Acting Managing Director Nicholas Bodo, AMS MD Yehuda Fishman, as well as delegation members from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
KAA said the system will help to avoid flight delays and disruptions that are expensive, especially as JKIA continues to experience growing passenger and cargo volumes.
The new technology also enhances compliance with global standards of safety and is viewed as a move toward further advancement in keeping JKIA as a top-tier aviation hub in the region.
