Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Nairobi International Airport (NBO)

About Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the largest airport in Kenya and one of the most important hubs in sub-Saharan Africa. Located about 15 km from Nairobi, it is the primary gateway for international visitors and a key transit point connecting East Africa to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Operated by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), it handles millions of passengers each year.

Nairobi International Airport Details - Jomo Kenyatta International Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
• IATA Code: NBO
• ICAO Code: HKJK
• Address: Airport Road, Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya
• Airport Pin Code: 00501
• Distance from Nairobi City Centre: Approximately 15 km
• Phone Number: +254 20 661 000
• Old Name: Nairobi Airport / Embakasi Airport

How Many Airports in Nairobi?

Nairobi is served by two airports. NBO is the main international and domestic hub. Wilson Airport, about 6 km south of the city, serves light aircraft, safari charters, and domestic routes to regional airstrips. For all major commercial flights, NBO is the primary option.

How Many Terminals in Nairobi Airport?

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has one main terminal complex. Terminals 1A and 1B handle international operations, while separate domestic facilities serve local routes. The airport has undergone significant redevelopment with further upgrades planned.

Distance Between Nairobi Airport Terminals

The international and domestic facilities share the same campus. Passengers connecting between flights should allow adequate time, as customs and immigration may need to be cleared before domestic re-check-in.

How Many Runways in Nairobi Airport?

The airport has two runways. The main runway (06/24) at approximately 4,117 metres is one of the longest in Africa and handles the Boeing 747, Airbus A380, and Boeing 777. The secondary runway (14/32) is approximately 3,962 metres. Both are equipped with instrument landing systems for all-weather operations.

Visa and Immigration for Nairobi Airport

Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Kenya. The process is fully online and must be completed before departure via the official Kenya eCitizen platform.

• Kenya eVisa: Apply at ecitizen.go.ke before travel. The eVisa is typically processed within 3 to 5 business days and is available as a single-entry visa or the East Africa Tourist Visa covering Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
• Visa on Arrival: Kenya no longer offers visa on arrival. All visitors including Indian nationals must obtain the eVisa before departure.
• East Africa Tourist Visa: Covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda with multiple entries for 90 days, applied for through the same eCitizen portal.
• Required Documents: Valid Indian passport with 6 months of validity, recent photograph, return or onward ticket, accommodation details, and proof of sufficient funds.
• eVisa Fee: The single-entry Kenya eVisa costs approximately USD 51 and the East Africa Tourist Visa approximately USD 100, both payable online.
• Immigration Process: On arrival at NBO, proceed to immigration with your eVisa approval and passport. Biometric fingerprints may be collected at the counter.

Apply at least one week before travel. Verify the latest requirements and fees on the Kenya eCitizen portal before booking.

Nairobi Airport Lounges and Facilities

• Kenya Airways Pride Lounge: For business class passengers and eligible frequent flyers, with dining, beverages, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.
• Aspire Lounge: A pay-per-use lounge open to all passengers in the international terminal, with refreshments, seating, and Wi-Fi.
• General Facilities: Wi-Fi in parts of the terminal, prayer rooms, medical services, ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, and dining serving Kenyan and international cuisine.

Things to Do in Nairobi Airport

• Browse duty-free shops for Kenyan coffee, teas, crafts, and international brands.
• Dine at airport restaurants serving local Kenyan dishes and international options.

Places to Visit Near Nairobi Airport

• Nairobi National Park: Just 7 km from the airport, this remarkable park on the city's edge is home to lions, rhinos, and giraffes, offering a genuine safari experience within minutes of landing.
• Nairobi City Centre: About 15 km away, home to the Nairobi National Museum, Karen Blixen Museum, Carnivore Restaurant, and the Westlands dining and nightlife district.

FAQs About Nairobi Airport - Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

What is the Official Name of Nairobi Airport?

The official name is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, formerly known as Nairobi Airport.

What is the IATA Code for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?

The IATA code is NBO and the ICAO code is HKJK.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Nairobi Airport?

Terminal 1A and 1B handles international flights, while separate domestic facilities on the same campus serve routes across Kenya.

Where is Nairobi Airport Located?

The airport is in the Embakasi area, approximately 15 km southeast of Nairobi city centre.

When Was Nairobi Airport Built?

The airport was established in the 1950s and expanded significantly after Kenya's independence, with major upgrades in the 1970s, 1990s, and 2000s.

Is NBO Open 24 Hours?

Yes, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How Far is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport from Nairobi City Center?

The airport is approximately 15 km from Nairobi city centre, a 30 to 45-minute drive depending on traffic. Taxis, ride-hailing services, and shuttle buses are available from the arrivals hall.

What Airlines Operate from NBO?

Airlines at NBO include Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Air India, British Airways, KLM, Turkish Airlines, and RwandAir, among others.

Are There Lounges at Nairobi Airport?

Yes, the airport has the Kenya Airways Pride Lounge for premium passengers and the Aspire Lounge open to all on a pay-per-use basis.