Arusha Airport to operate 24 hours

ARUSHA: ARUSHA Airport will begin 24-hour operations from August 1, this year following the completion of a modern airfield lighting system, a move expected to boost tourism, improve air connectivity and increase government revenue.

Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) Director General, Mr Abdul Mombokaleo, announced the development during an inspection of the ongoing installation works at the airport in Kisongo, saying the facility will be able to accommodate both domestic and international aircraft around the clock.

He said the airport has previously operated only until 6:00 pm due to the lack of runway lighting, limiting flight schedules and passenger movements.

“The installation of the lighting system will enable the airport to operate throughout the day and night, improving services for passengers and supporting the growth of the tourism sector,” Mr Mombokaleo said.

He said the project is designed to enhance access to Tanzania’s northern tourism circuit by allowing international visitors to fly directly into Arusha before travelling to attractions such as Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro national parks.

Mr Mombokaleo directed Arusha Airport Manager, Mr Edgar Mwankunga, to ensure the lighting system is completed before August 1 so that flight operations can begin ahead of the airport’s official commissioning.

Mr Mwankunga assured the Director General that the project is on schedule and will be completed within the set timeframe.

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He said 24-hour operations are expected to increase passenger traffic and revenue collection by allowing airlines greater flexibility to schedule flights beyond the current operating hours.

The government has invested more than 11bn/- in upgrading Arusha Airport through the construction of modern infrastructure and other facilities. The investment is aimed at easing passenger congestion at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) while expanding aviation services in Arusha Region.

The airport currently has the capacity to handle 1.5 million passengers annually, a figure expected to rise once round-theclock operations commence. Located about 15 kilometres from Arusha City centre, the airport is expected to play a bigger role in supporting tourism and economic activities in northern Tanzania.