The Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), in order to tackle traffic congestion caused by the influx of tourists has commissioned Tanzania's Kilimanjaro Airports Development Company (Kadco) to initiate plans set to expand the car parking facilities at the country's second busiest airport.
Kadco, which is responsible for the management of KIA, aims to increase the parking spaces from 85 to 187 in order to meet the growing demand for parking during peak tourism seasons. The expansion project will cost Tsh2.7 billion and will involve the installation of floodlights, the construction of a drainage system, and the resurfacing, rehabilitation, and extension of the existing car parking area.
The expansion project will not only create more parking spaces for tourists, but it will also create more than 100 temporary jobs for local residents during the implementation phase. The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (Tato) has praised Kadco for its swift action in expanding the airport's parking lot, which will offer holidaymakers a hassle-free trip right from the arrival lounge.
KIA is strategically located in the middle of Tanzania's northern tourism circuit and serves as the gateway for almost 80% of the 1.5 million tourists who visit the country annually, leaving behind $2.6 billion in revenue. The increase in the number of tourists has put pressure on KIA's parking infrastructure, making it unable to cope with demand. The expansion project will enable KIA to handle the growing traffic and enhance the airport's profile as a safe and convenient destination for travelers.