An attempt by Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) to increase parking rates at JKIA by over 153 percent has been met with stiff opposition by cargo owners, and freight forwarders operating at the airport who are known as specialized air operators. In a notice dated 22nd June 2011 and signed by the acting Airport Manager, Mr. S. Githaiga,  KAA issued new rates for acquiring a resident sticker with effect from 1st July 2011. The letter gave no justification for the adjustment and was issued with out any stakeholder consultation.

It is worth noting that a court order exists prohibiting KAA from introducing new security pass charges, car pass charges included, an order KAA seemed not be aware of. The injunction was taken out by Kenya Air Transport Operators (KATO).

KSC notes that parking services are basic infrastructure facilities that any landlord should provide to a tenant and finds it unacceptable to levy parking fees to businesses located at the JKIA cargo village since they are already paying rent to KAA. This proposed increase goes against numerous government initiatives of bringing the cost of doing business and improving the business environment.

While the increase has been suspended due to outcry from stakeholders, the Council will continue to monitor the situation in a bid to safeguard the cost of exports handled at JKIA.