Chitato Airport Overview

Chitato Airport (IATA: PGI, ICAO: FNCH) is a public airport serving the town of Chitato in Lunda Norte Province, Angola. It is approximately 3 km northwest of Dundo city centre and features a single asphalt runway suitable for small aircraft operations. The airport primarily supports domestic flights and regional charters.

General Information

• Location: Chitato, Lunda Norte Province
• Country: Angola
• IATA Code: PGI
• ICAO Code: FNCH
• Elevation: 2,500 feet (762 metres)
• Coordinates: 7°21′32″S 20°48′17″E
• Airport Type: Public
• Flights: Primarily domestic and regional charters
• Timezone: UTC+1 (West Africa Time)
• Distance from City: Approximately 3 km northwest of Dundo city centre
• Website: Not applicable
• Ground Services: Basic facilities are available
• Operator: Government of Angola(Flightera, Wikipedia, Airport Codes, Wikipedia, AC-U-KWIK, Wikipedia, Wikipedia)

Airport Details

• Runways: 1
• Runway Designation: 13/31
• Runway Length: 1,792 metres (5,879 feet)
• Runway Surface: Asphalt
• Runway Strength: Suitable for small aircraft
• Fire Services: Basic firefighting capabilities
• Tower Frequency: Uncontrolled; standard traffic advisory frequency
• Ground Frequency: None
• Navigation Assistance: Visual flight rules (VFR) only; non-directional beacons (NDBs) located south of the field
• Customs: Not available
• Aircraft Types: Small aircraft
• Terminal: Single small terminal
• Cargo: Minimal; supports local supplies
• Fuel: Unavailable
• FBO: None
• Equipment: Basic ground handling equipment
• Ground Services: Basic passenger assistance(Wikipedia, Wikipedia, Flightera, aircharterguide.com, ProKerala)

Flight Information

• Permit Time: 1–2 days for approval
• Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled flights and charters
• Slots: Not required due to low traffic
• Backup Airports:
  • FNDU: Dundo Airport, Angola (approximately 3 km southeast)
  • Recommended: FNDU (Dundo Airport)(Wikipedia, Wikipedia, Flightera)

Contact Information

• Police: +244 222 000 000 (Angola National Police)
• Fire Brigade: +244 222 000 001 (Angola Fire Service)
• Customs: Not available
• Airport Contacts:
  • Operator: Government of Angola
  • Email: Not available(Wikipedia, Flightera, Wikipedia)

Visitor Information

• Immigration Rules: Valid passport required; most nationalities require a visa (e.g., USA, UK, EU; verify with the Angolan embassy)
• Crew Requirements: Uniform, passport, visa, and flight documents
• Transport: Taxis and car hire available; journey to Dundo: AOA 1,000–2,000 / USD 2–4
• Accommodation:
  • Dundo: Hotel Dundo, Pensão Lunda
  • Nearby: Various guesthouses in Chitato
• Currency: Angolan Kwanza (AOA); USD may be accepted in some establishments

Nearby Attractions

Dundo Museum

Houses a distinguished collection of ethnographic art, including traditional masks and sculptures of the Chokwe people.

Luachimo River

A scenic river offering picturesque views and opportunities for local fishing.

Sagrada Esperança Stadium

Home to the local football club, providing a glimpse into the region’s sports culture.

Local Markets

Experience the vibrant local markets of Dundo, offering traditional crafts and local produce.

Extra Tips

• Getting Around: Limited public transport; taxis or rented vehicles recommended.
• Travel: Attractions are within 5–15 km; guided tours are available.
• Best Times to Visit:
  • Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Wet Season (November–April): Lush landscapes; some roads may be challenging.
• Tips:
  • Carry cash; card payments may not be accepted everywhere.
  • Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
  • Try local dishes like Muamba de Galinha and Calulu.
  • For aviation assistance, you can contact the Government of Angola. (Flightera)

Please note that Chitato Airport is operational but has limited facilities. Travellers are advised to plan accordingly.