The construction of Tanzania’s Iringa Airport is nearing completion at 93% as major flights are expected to commence. The commencement of major flights in the airport is set for late February, from the 22nd. During an inspection visit earlier last week, Tanzania’s Minister of Transportation noted the airport’s significance. He noted that once operational, the airport is expected to enhance various sectors of the nation’s economy. Some of the critical areas influenced by the airport’s operations are mining, tourism and infrastructure. Furthermore, agriculture is also a key sector that will also witness significance. According to the ministry’s statistics, passenger numbers from the 2024/25 financial year have risen by 29.2%. However, aircraft movements have decreased by 44.4%. During his inspection, Prof Mbarawa confirmed that Iringa Airport received operational certification. The certification was issued by the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) on 1 September 2024.
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The Scope of Implementation on Tanzania’s Iringa Airport
The scope of implementation on Tanzania’s Iringa Airport aims to ensure accessibility and ease of use. The airport covers 353.44 hectares and located 18 kilometers northeast of Iringa town. Moreover, the airport features a 2,100-meter-long, 30-meter-wide runway and a 155-meter taxiway. It also includes a 180m by 126m aircraft parking apron. The area allocated for aircraft parking is enough for large aircraft such as the Bombardier Dash-8 Q400 and up to 5 smaller aircraft.
The airport’s terminal is also capable of holding 200 passengers simultaneously. Aiming to improve air transport services, the minister urged transport staff to maintain professionalism in services as per the Tanzania Airport Authority guidelines. Iringa’s residents have expressed optimism about the airport’s impact once completed and operational. They hope to benefit from the airport’s presence in boosting the area’s economy and improving their way of life. Tanzania’s Iringa Airport is a key project that aligns with Tanzania’s 15-year National Development plan. It is the second phase implemented by Tanzania’s government in its transport sector improvement programme.
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