Assessment of the socioeconomic and environmental considerations in designing disaster risk preparedness measures at Wilson Airport, Kenya
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Date
2016
Authors
Kanyi, Paul Muthee
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Abstract
The aviation sector is one of the most important sectors for any country especially its ability to promote interconnectedness within countries as well as between countries. However, the sector faces many risks caused by various emergencies and accidents associated with the sector, and much so in the precincts of airports. The impact of these accidents causes monumental social, economic and environmental consequences to victims. The exponential growth of the sector in the country calls for special attention by relevant stakeholders to devise strategies to address disaster preparedness issues. This is especially due to the fact that the country has already experienced a number of aviation disasters and mishaps related to the industry. Consequently, this study sought to assess the appropriateness and adequacy of the existing physical infrastructure in mitigating aviation risks in the airport. This study was carried out at Wilson airport located in Nairobi West. The qualitative design was applied in this study to analyze and describe the effects of land use changes on airport and flight safety in a rapidly growing aviation sector. The target population for the study comprised of 50 aviation regulators, 50 air operators, 100 service providers and communities living around the Airport. Primary data was collected by use of questionnaires, interview guide and Focused Group Discussions while Secondary data were collected from written or published records and maps from the Kenya National Bureau of statistics. Quantitative data was analysed by use of descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages while qualitative data was analysed using content analysis. The study found that 37 (65%) of respondents indicated that the location of Wilson Airport is a threat, while 20 (35%) of the respondents indicated that the location of Wilson Airport is not a threat to the security and safety of the airport. Regarding the effect of environmental factors on the safety of Wilson Airport, the study found that 51 (89.5%) of respondents indicated that the location of the airport near tourist attraction sites such as Uhuru Gardens negatively affects the safety and security of the airport to a very large extent. Other environmental factors included: the presence of tall structures, visual obstructions, and land uses that attract wildlife in or near the runway approach and departure areas. Thus, socio-economic and environmental consideration is a determinant of disaster risk preparedness at Wilson Airport
Description
Research Paper
Keywords
Aviation risks, physical infrastructure, preparedness
Citation
IOSR Journal Of Humanities And Social Science (IOSR-JHSS) Volume 21, Issue 8, Ver.5 (Aug. 2016) PP 72-96 e-ISSN: 2279-0837, p-ISSN: 2279-0845