In this article, WoK looks at powerful individuals who own airport and airstrips.

Kenyatta Family

Arguably the richest family in Kenya, the Kenyattas own an airport at their expansive Northlands City located in Ruiru.

William Ruto

The current president made headlines when the Star newspaper shared photos of his Moiben home that has an artificial lake, six other posh houses at the front, with the main house boasting a gazebo.

The palatial home sitting on 20 acre parcel of land had a private airstrip. But its the president’s Kilgoris address that has been creating buzz.

It also emerged that the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) had invited bids to construct an airstrip next to Ruto’s 900 acre Intona home in Kilgoris.

Humprey Kariuki

The billionaire businessman has a number of private jets. Known to keep his life out of the public limelight, Humprey Kariuki has a private airstrip at Fairmont Hotel.

Other airstrips in Kenya that are owned mostly by consevancy are,

Keekorok Airstrip, Serena Airstrip, Musiara Airstrip, Kichwa Tembo Airstrip, Siana Conservancy Ol Kiombo Airstrip, Ngerende Airstrip, Olare Orok Mara North Airstrip and Angama Airstrip.

However, the financial commitment involved requires careful consideration of both the initial purchase price and ongoing operational costs.

In this article, WoK provides an exploration of the costs associated with buying and operating a single-engine Cessna airplane.

Buying a single-engine Cessna

The cost of purchasing a single-engine Cessna varies widely depending on the model, age, condition and avionics upgrades.

A brand-new Cessna 172 Skyhawk costs approximately Ksh46.3 million; this price includes modern avionics like the Garmin G1000 suite and a factory warranty.

However, new aircraft purchases are rare in Kenya due to high costs and import duties.

A more practical option for Kenyan buyers is a used aircraft; prices for used Cessna 172s range from Ksh3.9 million to Ksh30.3 million, depending on the year of manufacture, engine hours, airframe condition, and upgrades.

For instance, a well-maintained 1980 Cessna 172N with moderate engine hours might cost around Ksh11 million, while older models from the 1960s with high engine hours could be found for as low as Ksh4-8 million.

For budget-conscious buyers, the smaller Cessna 150 or 152 models are cheaper alternatives, averaging Ksh2.3 million to Ksh3.9 million.

These are popular for training and personal use but have limited payload capacity.

Importing an aircraft into Kenya incurs additional expenses, including a 16% Value Added Tax (VAT), a 2.5% Import Declaration Fee (IDF) and customs duties (which can vary).

For a Ksh10.9 million Cessna 172, these costs could add roughly Ksh2-3 million, bringing the total landed cost to Ksh13-14 million.

Operating costs of a single-engine Cessna

Fixed costs

Storing an aircraft in Kenya varies by location. At major airports like Wilson Airport in Nairobi, hangar space can cost Ksh50,000-100,000 per month.

Outdoor tie-downs are cheaper, averaging Ksh20,000-40,000 monthly, though exposure to weather can increase maintenance needs.

Annual insurance for a Cessna 172 in Kenya typically ranges from Ksh38,700-193,500, depending on the pilot’s experience, aircraft value and coverage type.

For commercial operations, premiums may rise due to higher risk. Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) regulations mandate annual inspections, costing Ksh100,000-200,000, depending on the mechanic and aircraft condition.

Assuming a hangared Cessna 172 at Wilson Airport with mid-tier insurance and inspections, annual fixed costs might range from Ksh840,000 to Ksh1.6 million.

Variable costs

Cessna 172s typically burn 7-9 gallons of Avgas (100LL) per hour.

In Kenya, Avgas prices fluctuate but average around Ksh774 per 3 litres at major airports.

For an 30-litre-per-hour burn rate, fuel costs Ksh6,192 per flight hour. A full 150-litre tank costs approximately Ksh30,960.

Routine maintenance, including oil changes (every 50-100 hours, costing Ksh20,000-30,000) and minor repairs, averages Ksh5,000-7,000 per flight hour.

Major overhauls, like an engine rebuild after 2,000 hours, can cost Ksh2.6-5.2 million, though this is a long-term expense. Fees vary by airstrip.

Wilson Airport charges around Ksh1,000-2,000 per landing, while smaller rural strips may be free or charge minimal fees (Ksh500-1,000).

For 100 landings annually, this totals Ksh50,000-200,000. If hiring a pilot for commercial use, expect to pay Ksh50,000-100,000 monthly, depending on experience.

For 100 flight hours annually, variable costs (fuel, maintenance, landing fees) range from Ksh700,000 to Ksh1.2 million, excluding pilot wages.

The group consisted of Dedan Gichuru, David Kanagi, James Mukirae, Fredrick Omondi, and Hannington Apudo, who were military cadets handpicked by the Minister Njoroge Mungai for the first-ever pilot course training at the Flying Training School.

In January 1962, the five were sent to the Haifa Flying School in Israel to join a cohort of 20 students from Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Brazil. This was through concerted efforts by the then Minister of Labor Tom Mboya through Israeli assistance. The training was backed by President Jomo Kenyatta, and within a year, the group returned to the country to hone their skills at the local Flying Training School.

In February 1964, Cadet Mukirae was the first to fly locally in February 1964, and a month later, Kanagi and Omondi also completed their first solo flights. On February 22, 1965, a graduation ceremony was held to celebrate their achievements, and 20-year-old Omondi who had recorded the most outstanding performance was awarded the sword of honour by President Jomo Kenyatta, becoming the first Air Force personnel to receive the decoration in independent Kenya.

The cadets received their Air Force service numbers after the ceremony and a few months later, they were back in training, this time at the prestigious RAF Feltwell in the United Kingdom. Shortly after, Apudo became the first to be dismissed for defying superiors while Mukirae was discharged due to a medical condition.

By 1965, the Kenya Air Force was operational, with Gichuru, Kanagi, and Omondi as the remaining jet fighter pilots. Gichuru rose swiftly through the ranks, becoming the first Kenyan Air Force Commander in 1973 at just 30 years old while Omondi’s influence in the military began to grow.

Threafter, Omondi’s stint was marked by controversy as he began using his position of influence to push for change within the Air Force. In the 1960s, the force was dominated by the British in senior ranks, which he began campaigning against, callling for their replacement.

During this time, Gichuru’s career thrived and was promoted to Lt Colonel, while Omondi stagnated only receiving one promotion throughout his career. Historians opine that this was as a result of the strained relations between President Kenyatta and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga fueling ethnic favouritism.

Captain Omondi instead motivated a large number of young people from his Luo community, particularly from Nyakach, to pursue careers in the military, in particular the Air Force. Notably, among them was Hezekiah Ochuka who led the August 1982 coup.

In 1971, Omondi led an unsuccessful coup aiming to overthrow the Jomo Kenyatta-led government. This was due to its failure to address issues such as the slow Africanization in military and rampant tribalism. He was implicated and served ten years in prison after pleading guilty.

The legacy of Kenya’s first five Air Force officers is complex, but tells a tale of ambition, excellence, and the strides made towards equality. Navigating post-independence military service, their contributions laid the foundation for a resilient Air Force that continues to safeguard Kenya’s skies.

He is representing President William Ruto at the inauguration ceremony of President Duma Boko on November 8, 2024.

This trip marks Kindiki’s return to international travel after two years, having previously been reluctant to travel abroad during his tenure as Interior Cabinet Secretary.

He is accompanied by several senators and members of the National Assembly on this diplomatic mission.

Notably, Kindiki flew to Botswana aboard a chartered Skyward flight.

He left Nairobi aboard a Rolls-Royce powered Fokker 70, which closely resembles Kenya’s official presidential aircraft, recently acquired by Skyward from the Netherlands.

Registered in Kenya as 5Y-SKX, this 29-year-old jet has not yet been adorned with Skyward’s branding and was formerly utilized by Tus Airways in Cyprus and KLM Cityhopper in the Netherlands.

Additionally, SilkAir from Singapore operated the aircraft for a duration of five years until the year 2000.

Fokker 70

Fokker 70 is a narrow-body, twin-engine regional jet developed by Fokker in the early 1990s, serving as a smaller variant of the Fokker 100.

It features two Rolls-Royce Tay 620 turbofan engines, each providing up to 61.6 kN (13,850 lb) of thrust, mounted on the rear fuselage.

With a maximum takeoff weight of 41,730 kg (92,000 lb), it can carry between 72 to 85 passengers depending on configuration.

Its design allows for efficient operations, including steep approaches, making it suitable for airports like London City.

Production ceased in 1997, with 47 units built.

In the early days, rounded-edge windows were uncommon as aerodynamic engineers initially used standard square windows following the invention of the airplane. Significant progress in air travel began in the 1950s with the launch of the Boeing 707, one of the first commercially successful jet airliners. This advancement enabled airlines to operate at higher altitudes, where the thinner air allowed for faster speeds.

Square windows were initially common, but over time, they proved problematic because they created stress points due to the pressure differences between the inside and outside of the plane.

In fact, in 1954, the use of square windows contributed to a plane crash, highlighting an urgent need for a solution. Engineers discovered that higher altitudes resulted in increased atmospheric pressure from outside the aircraft. The four sharp corners of the square windows absorbed 70 percent of the stress, leading to cracks and structural failure.

This led to the introduction of rounded windows on modern aircraft, designed to better manage the air pressure differences inside and outside the plane.

When cruising above 10,000 feet, aircraft cabins are pressurized to counteract the lower atmospheric pressure outside. This pressure difference puts stress on the windows, but their rounded shape ensures an even distribution of pressure across the panel, reducing the risk of damage.

Additionally, the design better withstands deformation, enhancing its durability for long-term use.

The windows consist of three acrylic layers, each serving a distinct function: the outer pane withstands external pressure and weather conditions, the middle pane provides thermal insulation, and the inner pane ensures a clear view while protecting against interior damage.

The outermost layer, being the thickest, absorbs all external pressure, while the middle layer, also substantial in thickness, features a small hole to equalize pressure and safeguard the inner pane. The innermost layer, facing the passenger, is the thinnest and handles only the relatively minor cabin pressure.

While incidents of windows tearing open are now extremely rare, they continue to be a critical focus during safety checks.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, rounded windows significantly enhance passenger safety compared to windows with sharp edges.

It might be dangerous, but it offers one the chance to tour various countries while flying state-of-the-art military aircraft.

The pay is also tempting. 

However, that chance is often reserved for the chosen few. 

To begin with, one must be a Kenyan citizen in order to qualify to join the Kenya Air Force. 

One must also have at least a C plain in KCSE, have a fair understanding of the constitution of Kenya, have no criminal record, be physically fit, and be aged between 18 and 27. 

In this article, WoK uncovers the profiles of some of our best Kenya Air Force pilots. 

Cpt Collins Omoro

He is one of the best dedicated pilot fighters of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

He joined the military a few months before he was supposed to join Kenyatta University to pursue a degree in Computer Science. 

He joined the KDF in 2002 before joining the Kenya Air Force (KAF) in 2004 to train as a pilot. 

Upon qualification, the father of two was posted to the Laikipia Air Base (LAB), where he currently operates. 

“The experience of flying the Hawk, the first jet in the UK Royal Air Force Valley was amazing. When I took off, the plane was moving very fast and the runway ahead was getting smaller at an alarming rate, I almost overshot the runway,” he told Standard. 

Cpt Douglas Muthuri

Like Omoro, Cpt Muthuri was incorporated into the KDF in 2002 before joining KAF in 2004. 

He chose not to pursue computer science as he had been called to do in Moi University and instead opted to join the forces, where his passion belonged. He told Standard  that the job satisfaction he currently enjoys is epic. 

He grew up around Nanyuki air base, and therefore he could see fighter jets flying all around. This was what fueled his desire to become a fighter pilot. 

It was therefore a dream come true when, in 2004, he joined Laikipia Air Base, Tactical Wing Number 15. 

Cpt Cornelius Maiyo

Maiyo joined the forces in 2001.

Two years later, he joined the KAF, and after intense training, he was posted to the Laikipia Air Base Tactical Fighter Wing as a squadron Fighter in 2006. 

According to him, the challenges he encountered included a physically, psychologically, and mentally draining training exercise, which required mental preparedness, physical fitness, and perfect physiological and psychological health. 

However, as he says, the training prepares an officer for what lies ahead. 

Col. Eric Kinuthia

He is the deputy base commander of Laikipia Air Base. 

He joined the KDF in April 1987 and was immediately posted to the Kenya Air Force. There, he underwent basic and advanced training, graduating on March 30, 1990. He was later posted to the Laikipia Air Base as a highly trained fighter pilot. 

His first experience Flying military jets was in 1991 when he was posted to the US, Columbus Air Force Base in Mississippi, where he spent a year before flying back into the country. 

He is currently pursuing a degree in Business Management and also mentors some Children’s Homes in Nanyuki. 

Lt. Col John Omenda

Like Col. Kinuthia, Omenda is a fighter pilot and has flown military jets since 1991. He was enlisted in KDF in 1987 before being posted to Laikipia Air Base as a fighter pilot. 

Before joining the military, the father of four taught as a high school teacher in various high schools for two years. 

As a pilot fighter, his skills include navigating, communicating, hunting, and engaging enemy targets while defending himself. 

Flight attendants have offered advice on what to wear while on a plane to ensure that you are comfortable both on the flight and when you arrive to your destination without sacrificing your style.

Here are some suggestions:
1. Stretchy Pants
Ditch the skinny jeans and embrace pants that have a stretch to them. Space on a plane is already limited and wearing tight clothing not only makes it uncomfortable but also cause restricted circulation among other health issues. Stretchy pants can mitigate these issues, making the flight pleasant and reducing health risks

2. Breathable tops
When selecting clothing for a flight, opt for tops made from natural fabrics like cotton, silk, wool, or linen, as they allow air and moisture to pass through. Avoid synthetic materials like polyester or rayon, which can retain body odor more easily. To maintain your style , choose breathable tops that are comfortably loose yet still maintain your shape.

3. Compression Socks
Sitting for a long time especially in a small space can restrict blood flow and make your legs swell. Compression socks are designed to help combat leg and foot soreness as well as prevent deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), or blood clots in the legs. It is advisable to put them on before boarding because it can be challenging to get them on in a confined space.

4. Comfortable shoes
The best shoes to wear on a plane are flats. Wearing flats on a flight is recommended because they provide comfort, reduce the risk of swelling and foot pain, make it easier to move through the airport and plane, and are more practical in case of emergencies. If you prefer to wear heels, choose those with a block heel.

Do not wear open-toe shoes as it puts you at risk of injury, expose you to cold temperatures and may be umcomfortable.

5. Loose loungewear
If you’re flying overnight, catching some sleep is important and with loose loungewear, you can rest assured that you will have a great slumber. Examples of loungewear include sweatpants, hoodies, leggings, oversized t-shirts, and soft knitwear. These items are designed for comfort and relaxation, making them ideal for wearing on a plane and are appropriate for when you arrive.

6. Wraps or shawls
A wrap or shawl is an ideal accessory to carry on during your flight, as it not only adds flair to your outfit but also acts as a blanket, pillow or extra layer without occupying too much space in your carry-on luggage.

7. Wrinkle-free business attire
For those travelling for business and meetings, invest in a work outfit to wear on the plane that will not require ironing. Dress in non-iron dress shirts, wrinkle-resistant dress pants and blazers, stretchy pencil skirts, shift dresses, or even khakis that are ideal so you can head straight to the office without having to change

What Not To Wear On A Plane
1. Jewelry or Bulk Accessories
Jewelry can be uncomfortable to wear on a flight because it might snag on clothing or get caught during security checks. Wearing bulky accessories on a flight can be cumbersome, uncomfortable, and may make it more difficult to pass through security checks. They can also take up valuable space and add unnecessary weight to your carry-on items.

2. Fragrances
With the increase in fragrance sensitivities, what you find pleasant can be unbearable for others. Shared air on a plane can worsen exposure for sensitive individuals, potentially triggering allergies or asthma. Be considerate of fellow passengers by saving your scent for after you deplane.

5. Bulky jackets

Traveling on a plane can be mentally exhausting and it is advisable to make the trip more manageable by prioritising comfort to reduce fatigue, prevent health issues such as poor circulation and improve your overall on-board experience.

From the staggering purchase price to the ongoing maintenance and operational expenses, the financial commitment required to maintain a helicopter is beyond the reach of most Kenyans.

In this article, WoK will explore the various costs associated with acquiring and operating a helicopter in the Kenya, shedding light on why these flying machines remain the exclusive domain of the political and business elite.

Presently, Kenya has over 300 registered helicopters, with the number of new registrations increasing year after year.

In 2021 alone, 47 new helicopters were registered, owing largely to political activities.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, President William Ruto, and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga are among Kenya’s renowned helicopter owners, however the number has grown as new politicians and businesses acquire the aircrafts.

Owning and operating a helicopter in Kenya entails significant initial investment, maintenance expenditures, and operational fees.

The cost of owning a helicopter varies greatly depending on the model and specs.

For example, a Eurocopter AS350B3e costs approximately Ksh 321 million, whilst a Bell 407 costs between Ksh 323 million and Ksh 385 million.

Regular helicopter maintenance is crucial for safety and reliability, with annual expenses ranging from Ksh 6.4 million to Ksh 12.9 million, depending on the aircraft’s usage and age.

Experts in the aviation business agree that helicopters burn a substantial quantity of fuel.

Ibrahim Warsame, a private helicopter pilot, stated that a Eurocopter AS350B3e consumes roughly 140 liters per hour, which equates to around Ksh 90,000 every hour of flight.

Given the significant hazards of operating a helicopter, extensive insurance coverage is essential, and it can cost between Ksh 6.4 million and Ksh 12 million annually.

On the other hand, helicopters are never parked or stored anywhere, they require a safe hangar that protects them from inclement weather and even human activity.

Several private companies provide hangar services at a high annual cost.

Additionally, helicopter owners must also pay landing costs because many buildings, particularly hospitals in big cities, have helipads and levy landing fees, which vary but can accumulate over time.

The same services are provided at various airports and air travel destinations across the country.

The Kenyatta’s easily rank among the-if not-the richest families in Kenya. One of their flagship projects, the Ksh500 billion Northlands City, attest to this. 

Sitting on 11,576 acres of prime land, the city will be a mixture of low-to-high income residential areas, schools, agriculture zone, commercial space, an industrial area and a central business district. 

As reported on this blog, the Eastern Bypass had to be expanded to accommodate the expected number of vehicles heading to the city,

“……. the proposed development will ultimately house a population of 250,000 people. It is projected that this population will generate up to 30,000 vehicles per day on to Eastern Bypass and 27,000 vehicles per day on Thika Road”

Runway

The self sustaining city has a runway complete with a hanger. The runway is marked as Northland Aerodrome on Google satellites and can be viewed at coordinates  1°11’29″S   36°58’42″E.

Private planes and jets can land and take-off from the airstrip described as a domestic airport.

It is not yet clear if the airport will be used by residents of the city. 

Northlands City Housing Plan

It is not yet clear if the airport will be used by residents of the city. 

The land has been segmented into low and high density housing. 3,750 acres have been earmarked for low density housing while 306 acres will be for high density housing.

130 acres has been set aside for medium-density residential housing. 

Low density housing segment will have a total of 601 villas and 1,320 townhouses. 

The medium density zone will have 670 townhouses and 368 housing units in blocks of flats.

Brookside, the largest milk processor in East Africa, occupies 65 acres of land in the city. Gicheha farm, a supplier of Brookside milk, is also located in the vast piece of land.

An open recreational space of 1697 acres has been set aside and another 5156 acres will be dedicated to wildlife conservancy.

His business acumen is undeniable. Khalif Kairo took a very short time to bounce back after being kicked out of ‘Imports by Kairo’. 

He went on to establish ‘Kai and Kairo’ which has become one of the most-if not the most-recognizable car dealerships in the country. 

Diversifying 

A marketer parlance, Kairo has now diversified into the world of planes. Through JetmanGlobal, an appendage of Kai and Kairo, they lease and sell planes. 

Sharing this new venture on twitter, the celebrated businessman said they also intended to 

“introduce in the Kenyan market include fractional aircraft ownership and aircraft management services”.

Chopper rides from Nairobi to Thika 

JetmanGlobal has introduced the ‘Heli Ride’ to and from Nairobi to Thika. The cost is Ksh40,000 per person, and if you book two tickets, you get a discount of Ksh10,000, meaning one only pays Ksh70,000.

This includes “30 minutes of flight time over Kibera, Upperhill, Nairobi CBD Skyline, Githurai, Ruiru, Juja, and Thika”.

There is a ten minute stop over in Thika for a photo session.  

What other companies charge 

Other companies charge upto Ksh120,000 and Ksh370,000 per hour for heli-rides from Nairobi to Mombasa for three people.

Licensed Pilot

Kairo acquired his private pilot license from Flightstar flight academy in 2022. According to the entrepreneur, he is working on getting a commercial pilot license.