International Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport | Moroni | HAH | FMCB |
Domestic Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ouani Airport | Anjouan | AJN | FMCN |
| Mohéli Bandar Es Salaam Airport | Mohéli | NMG | FMCF |
Notes:
- Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport is the only international airport in Comoros and serves the majority of the country’s international flights.
- Ouani Airport and Mohéli Bandar Es Salaam Airport are the main domestic airports serving regional routes within the Comoros islands.
Comoros Airports: Modernisation Plans Unveiled for Island Nation’s Aviation Infrastructure
The Comoros, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean off Africa’s east coast, has several airports serving its three main islands: Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan. The country has 5 airports that connect its population of about 850,000 people to the rest of the world and facilitate inter-island travel.
The largest and most important airport in the Comoros is Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport, located on Grande Comore island near the capital city of Moroni. This airport handles most international flights and serves as the main gateway for tourists eager to explore the Comoros’ pristine beaches and unique culture.
Other airports in the Comoros include Ouani Airport on Anjouan island and Moheli Bandar Es Salam Airport on Mohéli island. These smaller airports play a crucial role in connecting the different islands and supporting the country’s tourism industry.
Major Airports in Comoros
Comoros has four main airports serving its islands. These airports handle domestic and international flights, connecting the archipelago to neighbouring countries and beyond.
Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport
Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) is the largest and busiest airport in Comoros. Located in Moroni, the capital city on Grande Comore island, it serves as the country’s primary international gateway.
The airport’s IATA code is HAH, while its ICAO code is FMCH. It features a 2,900-metre runway, capable of accommodating medium-sized aircraft.
International flights connect Moroni to destinations like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Addis Ababa. Ethiopian Airlines is one of the major carriers operating here.
Passengers can access the airport via taxis or shared minibuses from Moroni. The terminal offers basic amenities, including check-in counters and baggage claim areas.
Ouani Airport
Ouani Airport (AJN) is situated on Anjouan island, near the town of Ouani. It primarily handles domestic flights within Comoros.
The airport’s ICAO code is FMCV. Its runway is 1,350 metres long, suitable for smaller aircraft used in inter-island transport.
Ouani Airport plays a crucial role in connecting Anjouan with other Comorian islands. It offers regular flights to Moroni and Mohéli.
The terminal building is modest, providing essential services for passengers. Local transport options are available to reach nearby towns.
Mohéli Bandar Es Eslam Airport
Mohéli Bandar Es Eslam Airport (NWA) serves the island of Mohéli, also known as Mwali. It is located near Fomboni, the island’s main town.
The airport’s ICAO code is FMCI. Its runway length is approximately 1,000 metres, accommodating small aircraft for domestic flights.
Regular services connect Mohéli to Grande Comore and Anjouan. These flights are vital for the island’s tourism and local travel needs.
The airport facilities are basic but functional, catering to the needs of domestic travellers.
Iconi Airport
Iconi Airport (YVA) is a smaller airport located on Grande Comore island, also known as Ngazidja. It primarily serves domestic flights within Comoros.
The airport’s ICAO code is FMCN. Its runway is shorter than Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport, limiting it to smaller aircraft.
Iconi Airport provides an alternative to the main international airport for inter-island travel. It offers flights to Anjouan and Mohéli.
The airport’s facilities are minimal, reflecting its focus on domestic operations. Local transport options are available for reaching nearby areas.
Travel and Transportation
The Comoros offers limited transport options but several ways to reach and navigate the islands. Airports serve as crucial gateways for both international and domestic travel.
Airline Services
International flights to Comoros are available through a few carriers. Air Austral connects the islands to Réunion and Madagascar. Ethiopian Airlines offers routes from Addis Ababa. Flights typically land at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport near Moroni on Grande Comore.
Domestic flights link the main islands. Small planes hop between Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli. These inter-island services are vital for locals and tourists alike. Flight schedules can be irregular, so it’s wise to check ahead.
Airport Facilities
Comoros airports have basic facilities. Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport is the largest, with a 2,900-metre runway. It can handle mid-sized aircraft. Check-in areas are small but functional. Baggage claim is straightforward.
Smaller airports on other islands have shorter runways. Facilities are minimal but adequate for domestic flights. Public transport from airports is limited. Taxis are the main option for onward travel.
Travellers should arrive early for flights. Security checks can be thorough. Food and shopping options are few, so it’s best to come prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Air travel to and within Comoros involves several key considerations. Travellers should be aware of flight options, airport facilities, and entry requirements when planning their trip to this island nation.
What are the international airline connections available at Comoros airports?
Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport in Moroni is the main gateway for international flights. Airlines like Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways offer connections to major African cities. Some Middle Eastern carriers also provide services to Comoros.
How can one travel between islands in the Comoros via air?
Inter-island flights connect the main islands of Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan. Local airlines operate small aircraft for these routes. Flights are relatively frequent but can be subject to changes due to weather conditions.
What facilities are offered at the primary airport in Comoros?
Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport has basic amenities. These include a small duty-free shop, a café, and currency exchange services. Wi-Fi access is limited, and travellers should be prepared for modest facilities compared to larger international airports.
Are there direct flights from major European cities to Comoros?
Direct flights from major European cities to Comoros are not currently available. Travellers typically need to connect through African or Middle Eastern hubs. Common routes involve stops in Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Dubai before reaching Comoros.
What are the visa requirements for travellers entering Comoros through its airports?
Most visitors need a visa to enter Comoros. Visas can be obtained on arrival at the airport for many nationalities. It’s advisable to check the latest requirements with the Comorian embassy or consulate before travel, as policies may change.
How frequent are flight services to and from Comoros?
Flight services to Comoros are limited compared to more popular destinations. International flights typically operate a few times per week rather than daily. Seasonal variations may affect flight frequencies, with more options available during peak tourist seasons.
