Wilson Airport, located in Nairobi, Kenya, is a airline hub for regional and domestic air travel which is situated approximately 6 kilometers south of Nairobi’s central business district.
It primarily serves smaller aircraft, including those used for charter flights, flying schools, and private planes.
The airport plays a crucial role in connecting various parts of Kenya, especially remote areas and popular tourist destinations, making it essential for the country’s tourism industry.
Wilson Airport was established in 1927 and is one of Kenya’s oldest airports. It was originally named Nairobi Aerodrome.
In 1962, it was renamed Wilson Airport in honor of Florence Kerr Wilson, a British-born aviator and entrepreneur who made substantial contributions to aviation in East Africa.
Florence Wilson founded Wilson Airways in 1929, which was one of the first commercial airlines in the East Africa. Her airline significantly boosted the development of air transport in Kenya and the broader East Africa region, facilitating travel and communication during a period when road and rail infrastructure were still limited.
Today, Wilson Airport is managed by the Kenya Airports Authority and is known for its high volume of air traffic.
The Airways handles a wide range of flights, including those operated by local airlines, flying clubs, and private operators. The airport’s strategic location and its ability to accommodate light aircraft make it a vital gateway for tourists visiting Kenya’s numerous national parks and game reserves.
Wilson Airport facilities include several runways, hangars, passenger terminals, and aviation service companies, which provide maintenance and other support services.
For decades Wilson Airport operations have been integral to the country’s aviation industry, providing connectivity and supporting economic activities such as tourism, agriculture, and business travel.