The proposed Lanet Airport construction documentation is in the final stage and a tender will be awarded by August this year, the Kenya Airports Authority has revealed.
According to Kenya Airports Authority CEO Mr Jonny Andersen, Nakuru is a very critical area in the aviation industry thus the need for an airport.
He explained that Nakuru is centrally located and would see aeroplanes diverted to Nakuru with ease in case of emergencies at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Mr Andersen further noted that Nakuru County has much to offer to the international community such as horticulture and tourism, thus the need for a civilian airport.
“Documentation is in the final stage and a tender will be awarded by August this year," said the KAA boss.
The KAA CEO was speaking when he led a team of technical officers from the Kenya Airports Authority, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Kenya Air Force, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure among other key stakeholders in Nakuru.
Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui said the opening up and upgrade of the Lanet airstrip is critical to Nakuru County as the county gear towards achieving city status.
The upgrade of the Lanet Airstrip will be done in two phases. Phase one will include the upgrade of the existing 1.7km airstrip to meet international standards and construction of terminal buildings.
Phase two will be an extension of phase one to allow the airport to accommodate much larger aircraft and might include compensation of neighbouring residents whose land may be acquired for the expansion.