The National Assembly has approved the Second Reading of the Air Passenger Service Charge (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to streamline the allocation of revenues collected from airline passengers to strengthen aviation safety and boost tourism promotion.

The Bill, moved by Leader of the Majority Party, Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah, proposes that proceeds from the Air Passenger Service Charge (APSC) currently set at Ksh600 for domestic flights and USD50 for international flights — be shared among the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), the newly established Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA), and the Tourism Fund.

“The intent of this Bill is to ensure that these monies are shared in a way that eliminates duplication and guarantees sustainable financing for key institutions,” said Hon. Ichung’wah. “We are replacing the Tourism Promotion Fund with the Tourism Fund, which is a more centralised structure, and bringing in the Meteorological Service Authority because accurate weather forecasting is vital for aviation safety and disaster preparedness.”

Seconding the motion, Deputy Leader of the Majority Party, Hon. Owen Baya emphasised that the aviation levy must directly support institutions that guarantee safe travel and vibrant tourism. “Aeroplanes depend on weather forecasts to determine whether it is safe to fly. The Meteorological Authority has no independent revenue stream yet it plays a critical role. It is only fair that it draws resources from this Fund,” he said. “Tourism also thrives on air travel, and the Tourism Fund must continue attracting visitors to Kenya. This Bill gives us the tools to strengthen both tourism and aviation.”

Hon. Robert Mbui (Kathiani) welcomed the inclusion of the Meteorological Service but urged caution against underfunding airport management. “KAA requires resources to expand and modernise our airports. We must ensure that in diversifying allocations we do not weaken the Authority’s ability to improve facilities and grow capacity,” he argued.

Hon. Njuguna Kawanjiku (Kiambaa) supported merging the Tourism Promotion Fund with the Tourism Fund but pressed for a transition period. “The Tourism Promotion Fund has sponsored projects such as the Ronald Ngala College, Magical Kenya campaigns, and support for the Kenya Wildlife Service. If we cut its funding abruptly, we risk leaving these as ghost projects. We must introduce a transition clause to allow completion of ongoing programmes before the merger takes effect,” he proposed.

Hon. Mary Njoroge (Maragwa) supported the Bill as a “progressive legislative intervention,” noting that, “It will reallocate funds more prudently, eliminate duplication, and reduce administrative overheads. Strengthening the Meteorological Service will also improve disaster preparedness and climate monitoring, which are vital for aviation safety and national resilience.”

While supporting the Bill, Hon. (Dr) Makali Mulu (Kitui Central) urged the National Assembly retain a say in how funds are apportioned. “Resource sharing is a sensitive matter. Leaving it entirely to one accounting officer may cause confusion. The percentages should be clear and subject to parliamentary oversight so that no institution is disadvantaged,” he stressed.

Hon. Gichimu Githinji (Gichugu) supported giving the Cabinet Secretary power to adjust allocations via Gazette Notice, but with safeguards. “Flexibility is important, but any adjustments must come before Parliament through the relevant committee. That ensures transparency and avoids conflicts of interest,” he advised.

Hon. Jared Okello (Nyando) linked the reforms to Kenya’s competitiveness in global aviation. “While other airlines are flying Dreamliners, our national carrier struggles with outdated aircrafts and high ticket prices. Streamlining this Fund can help us invest in modernisation, attract tourists back to the Maasai Mara, the Eighth Wonder of the World and make Kenya a true hub of African aviation,” he said.

With Members approving the Second Reading, the Bill now proceeds to the Committee of the whole House for consideration of proposed amendments.