The construction works on the highly anticipated Msalato International Airport in Dodoma are going on steadily and are on track. As for now, the completion status of the runways stand at 85%. As for the passenger terminal buildings, the completion status stands at 51%.
This update on the airport project was provided by the chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Investment and Public Assets (PIC), Augustino Vuma, on March 12, 2025 following a site visit by his committee.
Msalato International Airport Project Factsheet
Location: Msalato Ward, approximately 14 kilometers north of Dodoma’s central business district in Tanzania.
Key Features of the Msalato International Airport Project:
Runway: A main runway measuring 3,600 meters in length and 60 meters in width, capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the Boeing 787-8 (Dreamliner), which can carry up to 350 passengers.
Passenger terminal: A three-level terminal building designed to handle up to 1.5 million passengers annually, equipped with modern facilities to enhance passenger experience.
Additional infrastructure: The project includes the construction of taxiways, aprons, an air traffic control tower, fire and rescue facilities, fuel depots, water and power supply systems, access roads, and car parking areas. Additionally, it will contain other ancillary facilities to support airport operations.
Funding and development:
The project is financed through a combination of loans and government contributions, totaling approximately $329.47 million. The African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund, the Africa Growing Together Fund (AGTF), and the Government of Tanzania are the primary financiers.
Construction progress:
As of March 12, 2025, the construction of Msalato International Airport is progressing steadily:
Runways: 85% complete, with expected completion by April 2025.
Passenger terminal buildings: 51% complete, with anticipated completion by July 2025.
Significance: The timely completion of the airport is expected to boost the economy of the Dodoma Region by improving air connectivity and accommodating larger aircraft.
Also read: Tanzania’s Northern Railway Line Upgrade Plans Unveiled
Cost of the Passenger Terminal Buildings and the Runway
Furthermore, Vuma, stressed that this airport is very critical to Tanzania. The airport project involves the construction of passenger terminal buildings at an approximated cost of Sh190 billion. Additionally, the project entails the construction of a Sh160 billion runway.
“We have witnessed the progress with our own eyes, and seeing is believing. Paperwork alone is not sufficient evidence. Very significant progress is being made in the project and much has already been accomplished. If the airport project will be completed on time, it will greatly benefit Tanzanians who are highly anticipating its completion,” Vuma mentioned.
Additionally, Vuma added that this project is of high quality and the contractor is working around the clock to meet the set timelines.
Also read: Construction of Tanzania’s Iringa Airport Nears Completion at 93%
Significance of the Project
Once completed, Msalato International Airport will boost the general economy of Dodoma region, boasting a capacity to accommodate larger aircrafts. Additionally, according to Tanroads, the project’s first phase will possess the capability of handling a Boeing 787-8 (Dreamliner). This is a large which can carry 350 passengers.
Funding of the Project
In the month of February 2020, Tanzania and the African Development Bank signed an agreement worth $329.9 million to fund the Msalata International Airport project.
Lastly, the runways of Msalato International Airport are expected to be completed by April 2025. As for the passenger terminal buildings, they are expected to be completed by July 2025.
