Kenya and the United Kingdom have signed an aviation security agreement that will allow baggage arriving at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) from London Heathrow and Gatwick airports to avoid repeat screening under agreed conditions.
The memorandum of understanding establishes a framework for the mutual recognition of aviation security standards, procedures and controls between the two countries.
The arrangement is expected to reduce duplicated screening, accelerate baggage transfers and improve passenger connections while maintaining the required security standards.
Kenya seeks to strengthen JKIA’s regional hub status
The agreement comes as Kenya seeks to position JKIA as a leading regional aviation hub through airport infrastructure upgrades and efforts to attract more airlines and international travellers.
Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Teresia Mbaika said the deal would enhance Kenya’s competitiveness by making international travel more efficient and boosting confidence in the country’s aviation security systems.
The agreement builds on the Kenya-UK Security Compact signed in 2025, which provides a framework for cooperation on common security challenges.
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Ashley Ibbett, the United Kingdom’s Director General for Aviation, Maritime and Security at the Department for Transport, reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to bilateral cooperation and shared aviation security priorities.
Kenyan delegation visits Bristol Airport
As part of the engagement, a Kenyan delegation spent two days at Bristol Airport studying international best practices in aviation security, operational planning and airport management.
Kenya considers improvements in airport operations and connectivity essential to expanding tourism, trade and investment.
JKIA remains a key gateway for regional and international travel, with enhanced efficiency expected to support the country’s ambitions to attract more passengers and strengthen its position in the aviation sector.
