Pemba Airport
A key gateway for Zanzibar’s Pemba Island, undergoing major expansion to boost tourism and international connectivity.
Overview of the Airport
Pemba Airport (PMA) is located near Chake Chake on Pemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania. It serves as the primary air link for the island, supporting regional and international flights. Major upgrades are underway to transform it into a modern international airport.
-5.2573, 39.8114
Growth Trend
Passenger capacity is set to increase more than sevenfold with ongoing expansion, targeting 330,000 annual passengers by 2027.
Employment
1,000
Workers include airport staff, construction teams, airline personnel, ground services, and local support roles.
Global Ranking
Market Share of Major Airlines
Capacity Expansion
Expansion will triple domestic capacity and enable direct international flights, with a new terminal and extended runway for larger aircraft.
Technological Advancements
Modernization includes advanced security screening, digital passenger processing, and upgraded airfield lighting systems.
Sustainability Initiatives
The airport upgrade incorporates energy-efficient building design and water conservation measures to support environmental goals.
General Stats
This response provides the URL to the official statistics page for Pemba Airport (PMA).
View General Stats→Port Facts
The Port of Pemba is a major freight gateway located in Tanzania, facilitating international trade and connecting to global shipping routes.
View Port Facts→General Studies
This request cannot fulfill the prompt's requirement to find a single official environmental or community impact study page for Pemba Airport (PMA) due to the lack of a single, readily available, publicly accessible document fulfilling this criteria. There are multiple studies and assessments related to the airport, but a consolidated official page doesn't exist; instead, I will provide a link to the most comprehensive publicly available information from the relevant authorities.
View General Studies→Latest News & Updates
Recent developments and updates for Pemba Airport.
Zanzibar hands over Pemba Airport project to contractor
After years of delays, the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (SMZ) has officially handed over the construction site for the Pemba International Airport and the 43.5-kilometre Chake Chake-Mkoani road to the contractor, paving the way for projects worth nearly Sh800 billion.
Pemba Airport Set for Major Upgrade as Zanzibar Hands Over Site to Contractor
The project's scope is transformative, including extending the airport’s runway to 2.5 kilometers and constructing a new, state-of-the-art terminal with an annual capacity of 750,000 passengers.
Zanzibar’s Government Hands Over Multi-Million-Dollar Pemba Airport Construction Project
After years of delays, the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (SMZ) has officially handed over the construction site for the Pemba International Airport.
Operations Logistics & Timelines
Step-by-step process transit times for passengers and cargo.
For Clients
Passenger process times from arrival to gate.
- Arrival & Baggage Claim10-20 mins
- Immigration & Customs20-45 mins
- Check-in (if applicable)5-15 mins
- Security Screening30-60 mins
- Proceed to Gate5-10 mins
- Boarding10-15 mins
For Employees
Cargo handling deadlines and operational procedures.
- General Cargo Cut-off60 mins pre-departure
- Customs ClearanceDependent on customs procedures
- Handover to Ground HandlersUpon customs clearance
- Loading onto AircraftAs per airline schedule
- Security ScreeningPrior to departure
- Weight & Balance VerificationBefore flight departure
- Baggage HandlingAs per airline instructions
Passengers' Tips & Tricks
- 1
Arrive Early
Due to potential delays and the need to complete immigration and customs procedures, it's highly recommended to arrive at Pemba Airport (PMA) at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure, especially during peak season.
- 2
Confirm Terminal Information
While Pemba Airport is relatively small, confirm the location of your terminal upon arrival as signage may be limited. Check with airline staff or airport officials for precise directions.
- 3
Currency Exchange & ATM Access
Exchange currency at the airport or a reputable exchange bureau in Chake Chake before your trip. ATM availability within the airport itself can be limited, so it’s advisable to have sufficient local currency upon arrival.
- 4
Transportation Options
Pre-arrange your transportation to Chake Chake (approximately 7km) through your hotel or a reliable taxi service. Alternatively, taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal.
- 5
Check Visa Requirements
Ensure you have the necessary visa for Tanzania before traveling to Pemba Airport. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so verify the latest regulations with the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your country.
Cargo Tips & Tricks
- 1
Book in Advance
Air freight capacity at Pemba Airport (PMA) can be limited, especially during peak seasons. Booking shipments well in advance ensures availability and potentially better rates.
- 2
Utilize Local Handling Companies
Engage with reputable ground handling companies like Universal Private Transport, Osprey Flight Solutions, or other FBOs (Fixed Base Operators) listed at PMA for efficient cargo handling, baggage services, and documentation support.
- 3
Understand Customs Procedures
Tanzanian customs regulations are crucial for smooth cargo clearance. Thoroughly research and comply with all import/export requirements, utilizing resources like the airport information provided by HTPE and Universal Weather for details on customs procedures.
- 4
Consider Proximity to Seaport
Given the 121km distance between Pemba Airport (PMA) and the nearest seaport (Zanzibar), plan logistics carefully to minimize delays and potential transportation costs for goods originating from or destined for the sea.
- 5
Maintain Accurate Documentation
Strict adherence to IATA Cargo Operations Manual standards and accurate completion of export documentation (as outlined in DHL's Air Freight Shipping Process) are paramount to avoid delays and ensure seamless processing of your shipment.
Tools & Resources
Essential tools, portals, and resources for clients and partners.
Data & Reports
Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for Pemba Airport.
ACI World Data Center - Pemba Airport (PMA)
Provides passenger and cargo traffic statistics, aircraft movements, and other vital airport data for Pemba Airport.
ICAO Aviation Data Statistics Programme
Offers accurate and reliable aviation data, including statistics for Pemba Airport.
Pemba Airport (PMA) | Expansion, Capacity & Airline Data
Details expansion projects, capacity increases, and airline market share information for Pemba Airport.
IATA World Air Transport Statistics (WATS)
Provides comprehensive aviation statistics, including data relevant to Pemba Airport's demand and traffic.
Airport Statistics Pemba | Karume Wawi | PMA
Offers constantly updated airport statistics for Pemba Airport, including delay index and aircraft movement charts.
Location & Maps
Find Pemba Airport on popular mapping services.
Interactive Map
Map Legend
Loading Google Maps...
Recommendations
Policy Alignment
Coordinate with Zanzibar and Tanzanian authorities to ensure regulatory compliance and secure international funding for continued development.
Infrastructure Investment
Prioritize completion of the new terminal and runway to address capacity constraints and support economic growth.
Sustainability Focus
Accelerate adoption of green building standards and resource-efficient operations to meet regional and global sustainability targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common inquiries about operations and logistics at Pemba Airport.
What is the passenger processing procedure?
Passengers typically proceed through security screening and then to immigration for passport control. Upon clearance, you will be directed to baggage claim and onward travel arrangements. All international arrivals must present valid passports and visas.
How is cargo/freight handled at Pemba Airport?
Cargo operations involve unloading freight from arriving aircraft, customs clearance, and loading onto designated cargo aircraft. All shipments require proper documentation and adherence to Tanzanian customs regulations for import or export.
What transport options are available from the airport?
Taxi services and private car hire are readily available outside the airport terminal. Shared shuttle services operate to Chake Chake town and nearby resorts, offering a convenient option for travelers.
For More Info
Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.
