Dar’s participation in one of Africa’s leading aviation gatherings coincides with a significant milestone in the development and modernisation of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya.

Dar joined aviation leaders, policymakers and industry professionals at the 10th Aviation AFRICA Summit & Exhibition, held at the Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi.

The landmark edition welcomed delegates from 103 countries, including 47 African nations, for dialogue on the forces shaping the continent's aviation landscape: open skies and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), air connectivity and accessibility, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and the development of the next generation of African aviation professionals.

Dar Kenya took part with a dedicated exhibition booth, engaging with stakeholders from across the sector and sharing the firm's multidisciplinary expertise in airport planning, design and development.

Advancing vision into operation for JKIA's modernisation

That same week, a new consultancy services agreement was signed for one of East Africa's key international airports. The agreement, between the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development and Independent Business Group Sweden AB, in joint venture with Dar, covers Operational Readiness, Airport Transfer (ORAT) for the design, development and modernisation of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

As Kenya's principal gateway to the world, JKIA plays a vital role in connecting people, businesses and markets across East Africa and beyond. Its modernisation is a significant national undertaking, one that will shape how travellers, airlines and cargo move through Nairobi for years to come.

Throughout the operational Readiness process, Dar Dar will support the successful delivery of JKIA’s assets and their readiness for safe, efficient, and seamless operations from day one. Drawing on its ORAT expertise, Dar will bridge the gap between construction completion and operational commencement by validating systems, processes, personnel readiness, and interfaces through activities such as operational trials, staff training, emergency exercises, familiarisation, and stakeholder coordination.

By identifying and resolving operational issues prior to the commencement of operations, ORAT reduces the risk of disruptions, delays, safety incidents, and passenger-service deficiencies, while ensuring that airport operators, airlines, ground handlers, authorities, and other stakeholders are aligned, coordinated, and fully prepared to re-establish JKIA as a key player in the African and international aviation market.

Looking ahead

Through its participation at Aviation AFRICA 2026, Dar engaged with industry stakeholders, sharing insights and reaffirming its commitment to advancing African aviation. The JKIA ORAT consultancy agreement signing marked another meaningful step in this journey, reflecting Dar’s pride in contributing to the development of aviation infrastructure and connectivity across the continent.

Dar signs landmark contract to support the transformation of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport