Moi International Airport

Moi International Airport is not merely a transit hub but a true gateway to a tropical paradise, where the humid ocean breeze greets travellers right at the aircraft steps. As Kenya's second-largest aviation hub, it serves as the starting point for both relaxing holidays on the pristine white beaches of Diani and thrilling safari tours in Tsavo East National Park. Here, amidst modern infrastructure and African hospitality, your introduction to the vibrant culture and unique nature of the Indian Ocean coast begins.

Airport Features and Advantages

Mombasa Airport stands out for its commitment to sustainability and comfort. It is the first airport in East Africa to install a large-scale solar power plant, significantly reducing the aviation hub's carbon footprint. The compact yet convenient terminals (T1 for international and T2 for domestic flights) allow you to complete all formalities quickly, avoiding the hustle and bustle typical of massive capital city airports.

Travellers appreciate the airport for its strategic location: from here, it is easy to reach the main coastal resorts such as Diani Beach, Malindi, and Watamu. The facility offers everything needed while waiting for a flight, including business lounges, Duty Free shops with local souvenirs, and cafes where you can enjoy a cup of famous Kenyan coffee before departure.

If you need to contact representatives of Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa, please use the following contact information. It is recommended to verify the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: You can find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations on the official portal of the Kenya Airports Authority. Website: www.kaa.go.ke
• Help Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +254 41 3433211.
• Airport Address: Moi International Airport, P.O. Box 93904-80115, Mombasa, Kenya.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the official email address: manager.mia@kaa.go.ke.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact your airline's representative at the airport. regarding items left in the terminal, please contact the information desk or the general airport phone number.
• Social Media: You can follow news about Kenya's airports via the official Kenya Airports Authority pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

Getting to Moi International Airport (MBA), the main air gateway of Mombasa, is quite simple as it is located just a few kilometres from the city centre. The journey usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes, although this time can increase significantly due to heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. It is recommended to leave early to avoid unnecessary stress before your flight.

Public Transport: Matatu

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is to use local minibuses known as `matatus`. These are vibrant and loud minibuses that operate throughout the city. While this is a great way to experience the local atmosphere, it may be inconvenient for tourists with large luggage due to limited space. The cost of the trip is minimal, but be prepared for frequent stops and a lack of air conditioning. There may not be a direct route from tourist zones, so a transfer will likely be required.

Taxis, Online Services, and Transfers

The most convenient and popular option among travellers is a taxi or a car booked via apps (such as Uber or Bolt), which are widely used in Mombasa. This is a safe and comfortable way to reach the airport directly from your hotel door. The cost of a trip from the city centre or the north coast will vary, but always confirm the price with the driver before starting the journey if using a standard taxi. Many hotels also offer an organised transfer service, which is a reliable, albeit more expensive, option.

Car Rental and Parking

If you prefer complete freedom of movement, you can rent a car. Many international and local rental agencies have offices both at the airport and in the city. This gives you the opportunity to not only easily reach the airport but also explore the surroundings of Mombasa at your own pace. Moi Airport has both short-term and long-term parking where you can safely leave your car during your absence.

When planning your trip across Kenya and neighbouring countries, it is worth considering other airports in the region. For flights to popular southern resorts such as Diani Beach, Ukunda Airport (UKA) is convenient. Slightly further north lies Malindi Airport (MYD), serving the resort of the same name. If your route takes you to Tanzania, the nearest international options would be Tanga Airport (TGT) and the major Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ).

Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa has a simple and clear structure, making it convenient for passengers. The airport consists of two main passenger terminals, each serving different routes.

Terminal 1 is designated for international flights. Here you will find check-in counters for major airlines, passport control and customs zones, as well as Duty Free shops, cafes, and lounges for passengers flying outside Kenya. The international arrivals area is also located in this terminal and includes currency exchange points and tour operator offices.

Terminal 2 serves domestic flights within the country. It is smaller in size and simpler in layout. Here, travellers undergo check-in and security screening for flights to Nairobi, coastal resorts, and other Kenyan cities. The infrastructure here is more basic but includes everything necessary for a comfortable wait.

Thanks to the compact layout, navigating the airport is straightforward. Both terminals are located in close proximity to each other, and transferring between them can easily be done on foot in a few minutes. Signs in English and Swahili help with orientation. Departure zones are located on the upper levels, and arrival zones on the lower levels, which is a standard layout for many airports.

Check-in and security procedures usually do not take much time, however, queues are possible during the peak tourist season. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5–2 hours prior. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage, complete all formalities, and find your boarding gate without rushing.

The history of Moi International Airport (MBA) is closely tied to the development of Mombasa as a key tourist and economic centre of East Africa. Its journey began long before it received its modern name and appearance.

The airport was built during World War II and was originally called Port Reitz Airport. In those years, it served as an airbase for the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm. After the war, it was converted for civil use, becoming the main air gateway for the entire coastal region of Kenya. This gave a powerful boost to the development of tourism, which until that moment was largely dependent on sea and rail connections.

A key stage in the airport's history occurred in the 1970s. In 1978, a major reconstruction was completed: a new modern terminal was built, and the runway was extended to accommodate large long-haul aircraft such as the Boeing 747. This event radically changed the status of the airport, allowing for direct charter flights from Europe. Shortly thereafter, in 1979, the airport was officially renamed in honour of Kenya's second president, Daniel arap Moi.

In subsequent decades, the airport continued to be modernised to meet international safety and comfort standards. Today, Moi International Airport is the second busiest airport in the country after the capital's Jomo Kenyatta Airport. It plays an indispensable role in the economy of the coastal provinces, annually serving hundreds of thousands of tourists arriving at Kenya's famous beaches and national parks.

Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait. Whether you are arriving in Kenya or departing, you will find amenities here that make your journey more pleasant and simple.

In the terminal, you can have a snack before your flight at one of the cafes or restaurants serving both local and international dishes. For those looking for souvenirs or gifts, Duty Free shops are available. Here you can purchase traditional Kenyan crafts, jewellery, coffee, as well as perfumes, cosmetics, and beverages at competitive prices.

For a more comfortable wait, the airport has several VIP lounges. Passengers can use their services for an additional fee or through airline loyalty programmes. The lounges usually offer snacks, drinks, fresh newspapers, and a more secluded atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting areas.

Financial matters are easily resolved at Moi Airport: there are currency exchange points and bank branches where you can exchange money or withdraw cash from ATMs. A medical centre is available on the airport premises to provide first aid if necessary.

The airport is equipped for the convenience of all categories of passengers. For travellers with small children, there are mother and child rooms with changing tables. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on staff assistance, as well as ramps and specially equipped restrooms. It is recommended to notify your airline in advance if special assistance is required.

Although there are no hotels within the airport building itself, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity, many of which offer transfers for their guests. For business travellers, some VIP lounges provide basic business services, such as access to computers and printers, allowing you to resolve urgent work matters right before departure.

At Moi International Airport (MBA), travellers will find several options for a snack or a full meal to wait for their flight in comfort. Dining establishments are located both in the public area before security control and in the secure departure zone, offering menus to suit various tastes and budgets.

Before Security Control (Landside) you will find several cafes where you can leisurely drink a cup of aromatic Kenyan coffee or spiced tea (chai), meet with people seeing you off, or have lunch before checking in. They usually offer sandwiches, pastries, salads, and hot dishes. This is an ideal place if you have plenty of time before your flight.

After Security Control (Airside), in the departure zone, the selection is oriented towards passengers waiting for boarding. Here, cafes and dining venues offer quick snacks, drinks, and light meals. You can order pizza, burgers, as well as traditional Kenyan snacks such as samosas (pastries with meat or vegetables). The outlets offer a wide range of local and imported beverages.

Be sure to try something from the local cuisine if the opportunity arises. Besides the famous coffee from Kenya, look out for fresh juices made from tropical fruits — mango, passion fruit, or pineapple. For a more substantial lunch, some restaurants may offer dishes such as nyama choma (grilled meat) with a side of ugali or rice.

Most establishments offer vegetarian options, for example, vegetable samosas, salads, or dishes with rice and legumes. However, for stricter dietary requirements (vegan, Halal, gluten-free), it is recommended to clarify the ingredients directly with the staff. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but remain within reasonable limits. Main food outlets operate according to the flight schedule; many are open from early morning until late evening.

To ensure your journey through Moi International Airport in Mombasa goes as smoothly as possible, follow these proven tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and save time, allowing you to enjoy the anticipation of your holiday in Kenya.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours prior. This will give you enough time to go through all procedures without rushing, especially during peak seasons when queues may form.

Check-in and Security: The pre-flight control process may include several stages; sometimes security checks are conducted even before entering the terminal. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. Be prepared for a thorough inspection of hand luggage. To speed up the process, remove electronics and liquids from your bag in advance.

Seat Selection: If the airline allows you to select a seat in advance (sometimes for an extra fee), do so online. Window seats will offer you magnificent views of the Indian Ocean coast during takeoff or landing, while aisle seats provide more legroom and the freedom to stand up easily.

Hand Luggage: Standard rules apply here: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, and no sharp objects. It is critically important to remember that Kenya has a strict ban on the use, manufacture, and importation of plastic bags. Ensure there are none in your luggage or hand carry to avoid fines.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. In most cases, when flying with the same airline, luggage is transferred automatically. Follow the "Transit" signs to proceed to the departure area for your next flight.

Customs Control: Upon arrival, you may need to fill out migration and customs declaration forms. Be prepared to declare large amounts of cash or expensive new electronics. Customs officers also strictly monitor compliance with the ban on plastic bags.

Saving Time and Money: Check in for your flight online to save time at the airport. It is better to book an airport transfer in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are typically higher, so bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing through security.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative first. Depending on the wait time, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. Monitor the information on the departure boards and do not leave the waiting area without notifying staff.