Rwanda Aviation industry continues to fly high despite capacity woes
Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA) sector has embraced modern aviation operations to promote safety at Kigali International Airport (Kanombe Airport).
These and many other developments have jolted the Civil Aviation Authority of Rwanda and government into action to cater for this growth and take the industry to the next level. Upgrading Kigali Airport and up-country airstrips explains the importance attached to the emerging sector. However, the need to improve the country’s capacity to handle more passengers, cargo and aircraft remains.
According to Dr Richard Masozera, the director general of the RCAA, the expansion program aims to reposition Kigali International airport to enable it serve the growing pressure. There are currently about 10 commercial airlines serving Kanombe Airport and among these include RwandAir, Kenya Airways (KQ), Ethiopian Airways, KLM, Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines. More Airlines have showed interest in flying into Rwanda and these include Fly Dubai expected to start operating into Rwanda so soon.
In order to attract more international airlines into Kigali International Airport, the central government should invest more in the aviation sector. For example, modern ground and air traffic control amenities, as well as improved security systems required to ensure safety and efficiency. Furthermore, Kanombe Airport should expand the runways, make then longer and bigger, expand parking space and more terminals to make it more competitive
According to Mr. Masozera, there is an ongoing US$17.000.000.00 expansion program at Kanombe International Airport will assist reduce pressure at the airport, and improve cargo and passenger handling. This project will be completed by September with more 4 terminal gates to make them six (06) instead of two (02) that are currently available. The runway will be extended from the current 3.5km to 4.2km very soon to enable KIA accommodate larger airlines and enable it sufficient attend to the growing number of passengers and cargo coming to Rwanda. Such upgrades will also be extended to Kamembe Airfield in the southwestern part of the country.
Early next year, the Rwandan government will issue US$1billion to fund the construction of Bugesera International Airport as another way to boost Rwanda Tourism industry.
