International Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| King Mswati III International Airport | Manzini | SHO | FDMS |
Domestic Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matsapha Airport | Manzini | None | FDMS |
Notes:
- King Mswati III International Airport is the primary international gateway to Eswatini, handling flights from various international destinations.
- Matsapha Airport is the former international airport and is now primarily used for domestic flights and general aviation.
Eswatini (Swaziland) Airports: A Comprehensive Guide to Air Travel in Southern Africa
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small kingdom in Southern Africa with limited air travel options. The country has a few airports that serve both domestic and international flights. King Mswati III International Airport is Eswatini’s main international airport, located 50 km from Manzini, the largest city.
Visitors to Eswatini can fly into the country through this modern facility, which opened in 2014. It replaced Matsapha Airport as the primary gateway for air travellers. The airport can handle up to 360,000 passengers yearly, making it suitable for the country’s current tourism and business needs.
Eswatini also has smaller airfields for domestic flights and private aircraft. These airports connect different regions of the country, allowing for easier travel within its borders. While air travel options in Eswatini are limited compared to larger countries, the existing airports provide essential links to neighbouring nations and beyond.
Principal Airports of Eswatini
Eswatini has two main airports that serve different purposes. These airports play vital roles in connecting the country to regional and international destinations.
King Mswati III International Airport
King Mswati III International Airport is Eswatini’s primary international gateway. It opened in September 2014 to replace Matsapha Airport for commercial flights. The airport is in the eastern Lubombo region, about 70 km from Manzini.
The facility has a 3,600-metre runway that can handle large aircraft. It features modern passenger terminals and cargo facilities. The Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority (ESWACAA) manages the airport.
King Mswati III International Airport connects Eswatini to regional hubs like Johannesburg. It aims to boost tourism and trade for the country.
Matsapha Airport
Matsapha Airport served as Eswatini’s main airport before 2014. It is near Manzini, the country’s largest urban area. The airport now handles private, charter, and government flights.
Matsapha has a shorter runway of about 2,600 metres. It cannot accommodate large commercial aircraft like its newer counterpart. The airport still plays a crucial role in domestic aviation.
The facility supports royal movements and mercy flights. It also serves as a base for some flight training activities. Matsapha Airport remains an important part of Eswatini’s aviation infrastructure.
Regional Air Transport and Connectivity
Eswatini’s air transport system connects the small kingdom to larger regional hubs and offers limited domestic services. The country’s airports play a crucial role in supporting tourism and business travel.
Domestic Flight Services
Eswatini has a small network of domestic airports serving different regions. The main airports include King Mswati III International Airport and Matsapha Airport. These airports link the country’s four districts: Hhohho, Lubombo, Manzini, and Shiselweni.
Domestic flights are limited but provide vital connections to remote areas and game reserves. Small aircraft and charter services operate flights between these airports, catering to tourists and business travellers.
Tshaneni Airport in the Lubombo region serves the northern part of the country. It provides access to nearby game reserves and rural communities.
International Links to Johannesburg
Eswatini Air, the national airline, started operations in March 2023. It offers regular flights to Johannesburg, a major regional hub. This route is crucial for Eswatini’s international connectivity.
Airlink, a South African airline, also operates flights between Eswatini and Johannesburg. These services provide important links for business travellers and tourists.
King Mswati III International Airport serves as the main gateway for these international flights. It’s located about 50 km from Manzini, Eswatini’s largest urban area.
The Johannesburg route opens up connections to global destinations, boosting Eswatini’s tourism and trade potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eswatini’s airports offer various services and facilities to travellers. Key information about flights, transportation, and recent developments is essential for visitors to the kingdom.
How many international airports does Eswatini have?
Eswatini has one international airport. The King Mswati III International Airport, formerly known as Sikhuphe International Airport, serves as the country’s primary gateway for international flights.
It opened in March 2014 to replace the older Matsapha Airport.
What are the operating hours for the primary airport in Eswatini?
The King Mswati III International Airport operates daily. Specific opening and closing times may vary based on scheduled flights and seasonal changes.
Travellers should check with their airlines or the airport’s official website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.
Can one find direct flights to Eswatini from major global hubs?
Direct flights to Eswatini from major global hubs are limited. Most international travellers connect through larger airports in neighbouring countries, such as South Africa.
Regional flights from nearby African countries are more common.
Are there transportation services readily available at Eswatini airports?
Transportation services are available at Eswatini’s airports. Taxis and car hire services can be found at the King Mswati III International Airport.
Some hotels may offer shuttle services for their guests. It’s advisable to arrange transportation in advance, especially for late-night arrivals.
What facilities are offered to passengers at Eswatini’s airports?
The King Mswati III International Airport offers basic passenger facilities. These include check-in counters, security screening areas, and baggage claim services.
There are also shops and eateries within the airport terminal. Currency exchange services are available for travellers.
Are there any recent upgrades or developments in Eswatini’s airport infrastructure?
The construction of King Mswati III International Airport itself was a major upgrade to Eswatini’s aviation infrastructure. It replaced the older Matsapha Airport, which had limited capacity.
The new airport can accommodate larger aircraft and has modern facilities to enhance passenger experience.
