On Friday, Angolan President Joao Lourenco inaugurated the much-anticipated Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto international Airport (AIAAN). Named after the country’s first president, the airport, initially slated for completion in 2017
The construction of the airport, along with its supporting infrastructure, is reported to have incurred a cost exceeding $3 billion. Angola’s Minister of Transport, Ricardo Viegas D’Abreu, clarified that this substantial investment is entirely funded by the government. The plan is to recover these costs through the concession of airport management, the development of an airport city, and involving the private sector to fully leverage the capabilities of the new facilities.
Luanda António Agostinho Neto International Airport is situated around 40 km east of central Luanda, encompassing a 19 sq mi (50 sq km) area. The airport features two asphalt runways with an elevation of 522 ft (159 m). The northern runway spans 13,779 ft (4,200 m) in length and 196 ft (60 m) in width, while the southern runway measures 12,467 ft (3,800 m) in length and 196 ft (60 m) in width.
Commencement Date for Passenger Flights at Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport
AIAAN is set to commence passenger flights in early 2024 and also boasts a passenger capacity of 15 million annually, accommodating 10 million international travelers and 5 million domestic passengers. In terms of cargo, the airport can manage 286.6 million pounds (130,000 tonnes) annually in its initial phase, with the potential for expansion up to an impressive 970 million pounds (440,000 tonnes) per year.
Spanning approximately 1.7 million sq ft (160,000 sq m), the passenger terminal building at AIAAN is equipped with 12 aircraft finger docks. Beyond the terminals, the airport encompasses additional facilities such as hotels, office buildings, hangars, and shops. The modernized terminal is equipped with state-of-the-art baggage carousels and check-in counters, with plans for upcoming additions including restaurants and lounges.
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