Cuito Cuanavale Airport (IATA: CTI, ICAO: FNCV), also known as Aeroporto 23 de Março, is a public domestic airport serving the town of Cuito Cuanavale in Cuando Cubango Province, Angola. It is located approximately 1 km west of the town centre and features a single asphalt runway suitable for small to medium-sized aircraft operations. The airport primarily supports domestic flights and regional charters.
General Information
- Location: Cuito Cuanavale, Cuando Cubango Province
- Country: Angola
- IATA Code: CTI
- ICAO Code: FNCV
- Elevation: 3,986 feet (1,215 metres)
- Coordinates: 15°09′35″S 19°09′20″E
- Airport Type: Public, Domestic
- Flights: Primarily domestic and regional charters
- Timezone: UTC+1 (West Africa Time)
- Distance from City: Approximately 1 km west of Cuito Cuanavale town centre
- Website: Not applicable
- Ground Services: Basic facilities available
- Operator: Government of Angola(Maptons.com, Prokerala, Airports Worldwide, AC-U-KWIK, Wikipedia, aviationmuseum.eu)
Airport Details
- Runways: 1
- Runway Designation: 12/30
- Runway Length: 2,740 metres (8,973 feet)
- Runway Surface: Asphalt
- Runway Strength: Suitable for small to medium-sized aircraft
- Fire Services: Basic firefighting capabilities
- Tower Frequency: AFIS 118.8 MHz
- Ground Frequency: None
- Navigation Assistance: Visual flight rules (VFR) only; non-directional beacon (NDB) located on the field
- Customs: Not available
- Aircraft Types: Small to medium-sized aircraft
- Terminal: Single small terminal
- Cargo: Minimal; supports local supplies
- Fuel: Unavailable
- FBO: None
- Equipment: Basic ground handling equipment
- Ground Services: Basic passenger assistance(Metar Taf)
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:
- FNME: Menongue Airport, Angola (approximately 165 km west)
- Recommended: FNME (Menongue Airport)(Prokerala, Airport Profile, Wikipedia)
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
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 Cuito Cuanavale: AOA 1,000–2,000 / USD 2–4
- Accommodation:
- Cuito Cuanavale: Local guesthouses
- Nearby: Various guesthouses in Cuando Cubango Province
- Currency: Angolan Kwanza (AOA); USD may be accepted in some establishments(Airport Codes, Airports Worldwide)
Nearby Attractions
A monument commemorating the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, symbolising the heroic resistance of Angolan combatants. The site includes a museum, conference centre, and the eternal flame of the memorial (aviationmuseum.eu)
The town is situated at the confluence of the Cuito and Cuanavale rivers, offering scenic views and opportunities for nature exploration.
Local Markets
Experience the vibrant local markets of Cuito Cuanavale, offering traditional crafts and local produce.
Extra Tips
- Getting Around: Limited public transport; taxis or rented vehicles recommended.
- Travel: Attractions are within 5–70 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, contact the Government of Angola.
Please note that Cuito Cuanavale Airport is operational but has limited facilities. Travellers are advised to plan accordingly.
