New carrier to operate four weekly flights as improved airport infrastructure positions garissa as a growing aviation and commercial hub in northern kenya.
ASAL POST | TRANSPORT | July 14, 2026
GARISSA – The recent upgrade of the Garissa Airstrip has begun yielding tangible results after Skyward Airlines announced the launch of scheduled passenger flights between Nairobi and Garissa, marking a significant milestone in the county’s growing aviation sector.
The airline becomes the latest operator to serve the route, signalling renewed confidence in Garissa’s expanding transport infrastructure following the reopening of the upgraded airstrip.
Ahead of the inaugural flight, a delegation from Skyward Airlines paid a courtesy call on the County Government of Garissa, where they were received by County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Roads, Transport and Public Works Nassir Mohamed Aden.
The meeting focused on preparations for the airline’s entry into the market and the opportunities expected to arise from improved air connectivity.
Four Weekly Flights
Skyward Airlines is scheduled to launch its inaugural Nairobi–Garissa service on Friday, August 7, and will thereafter operate four weekly flights every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
The service will provide residents, business travellers and development partners with a faster and more convenient alternative to the approximately six-hour road journey between Nairobi and Garissa.
Leading the airline’s delegation, Augustine Mogoi said Skyward Airlines had acquired a new aircraft dedicated to the route and was already planning future expansion as passenger demand continues to grow.
He noted that the upgraded airstrip now enables the airline to deploy both 37-seat and 50-seat aircraft, significantly increasing passenger capacity and operational flexibility.
“We will handle departures and arrivals from Wilson Airport, where we have a dedicated passenger terminal complete with a VIP lounge to ensure convenience, comfort and faster access for our customers,” Mogoi said.
Investment Paying Off
Mogoi also praised the County Government for investing in a modern passenger terminal, noting that while many airport projects prioritize runway improvements, passenger terminals play an equally important role in delivering quality travel experiences.
The transformation of Garissa Airstrip is the result of a partnership between the County Government of Garissa and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA).
Under the partnership, the County Government constructed an ultra-modern passenger terminal, while KAA upgraded the airside infrastructure by:
- Extending the runway to 1.2 kilometres
- Widening it to 23 metres
- Constructing two 55-metre taxiways
- Building a 230-metre aircraft parking apron
- Installing two turn pads to improve aircraft movement and operational efficiency.
The upgraded facilities can now accommodate larger aircraft, opening the door for more airlines to operate scheduled services into Garissa.
Boost to Regional Economy
CECM Nassir Mohamed Aden said improved air connectivity is expected to stimulate economic growth by enhancing tourism, hospitality, trade and investment in Garissa and neighbouring Tana River County.
He noted that the improved airport infrastructure would also make travel easier for residents, investors, humanitarian agencies and development partners working across Northern Kenya.
Skyward Airlines has already opened a booking office at Aqsa Mall, near KCB Bank in Garissa. Tickets are also available through the airline’s official website and at its Wilson Airport offices in Nairobi.
The airline’s entry into the Nairobi–Garissa route represents a major boost for regional connectivity and underscores growing investor confidence in Garissa’s transport infrastructure.
As more carriers consider operating from the upgraded facility, Garissa is steadily positioning itself as an emerging aviation gateway for Northern Kenya, supporting trade, investment and regional integration.
