Kenyans will soon pay more for both domestic and international flights following the enactment of the Air Passenger Service Charge (Amendment) Act, 2025, the first fare adjustment in over a decade.
Signed into law by President William Ruto on October 15, the legislation increases ticket levies to support critical state agencies in aviation, tourism, and climate resilience.
What Travellers Will Pay
Under the revised structure:
- Domestic flights: KSh 600 (up from KSh 500) — a 20% increase
- International flights: KSh 6,500 (up from KSh 5,200) — a 25% increase
(Equivalent to US$50, up from US$40)
The law also empowers the Cabinet Secretary for Transport to revise these charges periodically via gazette notices, allowing adjustments based on economic shifts and sectoral needs.
Where the Money Goes
Revenue from the new levies will be distributed among four key agencies:
- Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) — for infrastructure and airport upgrades
- Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) — to enhance aviation safety and compliance
- Kenya Meteorological Service — to improve weather forecasting and climate data systems
- Tourism Fund — a newly merged entity combining the Tourism Fund and Tourism Promotion Fund to streamline financing and eliminate duplication
The inclusion of the Meteorological Service marks a strategic shift toward climate-informed aviation planning, with better data expected to improve flight safety and disaster preparedness.
Implications for Travellers and Airlines
While the Ministry of Transport says the increment will strengthen tourism infrastructure and aviation safety, industry analysts warn of potential ripple effects. Airlines already facing rising operational costs may pass the burden to consumers, leading to higher airfares across domestic and international routes.
This comes at a time when Kenya is ramping up efforts to position itself as a premier travel destination. The Kenya Tourism Board aims to attract 3 million international tourists by the end of 2025, with a longer-term goal of 5 million annual arrivals by 2027.
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Why It Matters
The fare adjustment reflects Kenya’s broader strategy to fund sustainable tourism, modernise aviation infrastructure, and integrate climate resilience into national planning. It also aligns with global trends where passenger levies are increasingly used to finance sectoral development.
For travellers, the new charges may be a small price to pay for safer skies, better airport experiences, and enhanced tourism offerings, but affordability and transparency will remain key concerns.
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