Sumbawanga, RUKWA: THE major upgrading and renovation of Sumbawanga Airport, which is now 60 per cent complete, is expected to be finished in June this year.
The major renovation and upgrade of Sumbawanga Airport, a 60.1bn/- project, is now 60 per cent complete and is expected to be finished on June 13th, this year.
Once completed, the airport will unlock significant economic potential in the Southern Highlands.
The Acting Rukwa Regional Tanroads Manager, Engineer Joseph Gimonge said the fully operational airport will boost tourism and facilitate the transportation of goods and services.
The airport’s expansion includes upgraded terminals, a new runway and improved infrastructure to accommodate larger aircraft and enhance traffic.
A team of journalists, led by Mr Godfrey Ponela, Head of the Communication Unit at Tanroads, toured the site to assess progress.
Funded by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Tanzanian government, the project is being executed by the Beijing Construction Engineering Group Co Ltd (BCEG).
Upon completion, the airport will accommodate Bombardier Q400 and ATR 72 aircraft, with 24-hour operational capacity, supported by an advanced airfield lighting system.
The new runway, measuring 1.75 km in width and 30 metres in length, will also feature a passenger lounge capable of handling 150,000 passengers annually.
Engineer Gimonge urged southern highland traders to leverage the airport’s capacity, increasing the volume of freight passing through Sumbawanga. The facility will transform not only the local economy but also the landscape of the town itself.
Rukwa’s Head of Communication, Ms Khadija Dalasia, hailed President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her efforts in securing the resources for this vital infrastructure.
ALSO READ: Msalato Airport nears completion
Journalists on site observed steady progress on the runway and parking areas construction, bringing optimism for the airport’s imminent readiness to handle both domestic and international flights, further boosting tourism and economic growth.
