Your gateway to Mozambique - comprehensive airport and flight information
Mozambique's strategic location along the Indian Ocean coast and its growing tourism industry have led to significant investments in aviation infrastructure. The country operates several international and domestic airports that serve as gateways for visitors from around the world and provide essential connectivity between different regions of this vast nation.
Whether you're arriving for business, leisure, or adventure, understanding Mozambique's airport network will help you plan your journey more effectively. From the modern facilities of Maputo International Airport to the smaller regional airstrips that serve remote tourist destinations, each airport plays a crucial role in connecting Mozambique to the world and facilitating travel within the country.
Mozambique operates over 100 airports and airstrips, ranging from major international facilities to small regional airports serving remote areas and tourist destinations.
Maputo International Airport, also known as Mavalane International Airport, serves as Mozambique's primary international gateway and the country's busiest aviation facility. Located approximately 3 kilometres northwest of Maputo city centre, this modern airport handles the majority of international traffic and serves as the hub for LAM Mozambique Airlines.
The airport underwent significant modernisation and expansion in recent years, resulting in improved facilities and enhanced passenger experience. The terminal building features modern amenities, efficient check-in procedures, and a range of services designed to meet international standards.
Maputo International Airport connects Mozambique to major destinations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. The airport serves as a regional hub with excellent connections to South Africa, making it easily accessible for international travellers. Regular flights operate to Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Lisbon, Doha, and other key destinations.
| Airline | Destinations | Frequency | Aircraft Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAM Mozambique | Johannesburg, Lisbon, Harare | Daily/Multiple daily | Embraer E-Jets, Boeing 737 |
| South African Airways | Johannesburg | Multiple daily | Airbus A320, Boeing 737 |
| TAP Air Portugal | Lisbon | 3x weekly | Airbus A330 |
| Qatar Airways | Doha | Daily | Boeing 787 |
| Ethiopian Airlines | Addis Ababa | Daily | Boeing 737, Airbus A350 |
Getting to and from Maputo International Airport is convenient with multiple transportation options available. The airport's proximity to the city centre makes it easily accessible, and various transport modes cater to different budgets and preferences.
Beyond Maputo, Mozambique operates several other significant airports that serve both international and domestic routes. These airports are crucial for accessing different regions of the country and supporting the growing tourism industry.
Beira Airport serves as the primary aviation hub for central Mozambique and is the country's second-busiest airport. Located approximately 10 kilometres northeast of Beira city centre, this airport plays a crucial role in connecting the central provinces to domestic and regional destinations.
Nampula Airport is the main aviation facility serving northern Mozambique and provides essential connectivity to the region's growing mining and tourism sectors. The airport serves as a gateway to the Quirimbas Archipelago and other northern attractions.
Tete Airport has gained importance due to the region's significant coal mining operations and serves as a key transportation hub for the mining industry. The airport also provides access to the Cahora Bassa Dam and surrounding attractions.
Quelimane Airport serves the Zambezi province and provides access to the Zambezi Delta region. This airport is important for both domestic connectivity and access to unique ecological and tourism destinations in the delta area.
Mozambique's tourism industry is supported by several smaller airports and airstrips that provide direct access to popular tourist destinations, particularly the pristine islands and coastal areas that attract visitors from around the world.
Vilanculos Airport is the primary gateway to the famous Bazaruto Archipelago and serves as one of Mozambique's most important tourism airports. Located near the coastal town of Vilanculos, this airport receives regular flights from South Africa and domestic connections, making it easily accessible for international tourists.
Pemba Airport serves as the gateway to the northern coast and the spectacular Quirimbas Archipelago. This airport has grown in importance as tourism to northern Mozambique has increased, and it provides essential connectivity for visitors seeking to explore the pristine islands and coral reefs of the region.
Several of Mozambique's premier island destinations have their own airstrips that accommodate small aircraft and provide direct access for guests staying at luxury lodges and resorts. These include airstrips on Benguerra Island, Bazaruto Island, and various islands in the Quirimbas Archipelago.
| Airport/Airstrip | Location | Primary Use | Aircraft Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vilanculos (VNX) | Inhambane Province | Tourism, Bazaruto access | Commercial jets, charter flights |
| Pemba (POL) | Cabo Delgado Province | Tourism, Quirimbas access | Regional aircraft, charters |
| Benguerra Island | Bazaruto Archipelago | Lodge transfers | Small aircraft, helicopters |
| Bazaruto Island | Bazaruto Archipelago | Resort access | Light aircraft |
| Medjumbe | Quirimbas Archipelago | Exclusive lodge access | Small aircraft only |
Understanding flight schedules, booking procedures, and travel requirements will help ensure smooth air travel within and to Mozambique. Here are essential tips and information for planning your flights.
LAM Mozambique Airlines operates the most comprehensive domestic network, connecting major cities and tourist destinations. Flight schedules can vary seasonally, with increased frequency during peak tourist periods. It's advisable to book domestic flights well in advance, especially during holiday seasons and for popular tourist routes.
International passengers departing from Mozambique are required to pay a departure tax of approximately USD $20. This tax is sometimes included in ticket prices, but passengers should verify this when booking and be prepared to pay at the airport if necessary. The tax can typically be paid in US dollars, South African rand, or Mozambican meticais.
All international airports in Mozambique have customs and immigration facilities. Processing times can vary depending on flight schedules and passenger volumes. Having all required documents readily available and properly completed will help expedite the process.
Many lodges and resorts in remote areas arrange their own transfers, including flights. When booking accommodation, inquire about transfer packages that may include flights from major airports to your final destination.
Mozambique continues to invest in aviation infrastructure to support economic growth and tourism development. Several airport expansion and improvement projects are planned or underway to enhance capacity and service quality.
The government, in partnership with private investors, is working on various airport improvement projects. These include runway extensions, terminal upgrades, and enhanced navigation systems to accommodate larger aircraft and increase passenger capacity.
Plans are underway for new airport facilities in key tourism and economic development areas. These projects aim to improve accessibility to remote regions and support the growth of tourism and mining industries.
Mozambique's aviation sector is positioned for continued growth, with investments in infrastructure, technology, and services that will enhance connectivity and support the country's economic development goals.