Luanda Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport serves as Angola's primary aviation hub, strategically located south of the capital city Luanda. This dual-use facility accommodates both civilian and military flights while functioning as the operational base for Diexim Expresso, SonAir, and the hub for TAAG Angola Airlines.
Key Airport Specifications
- Elevation: Situated 74 meters (243 feet) above sea level, impacting flight operations and safety protocols.
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Runway Configuration:
Features two asphalt runways:
- Runway 05/23: Measures 3,716m × 45m, capable of handling large commercial aircraft.
- Runway 07/25: At 2,600m × 60m, accommodates diverse aircraft types.
Expansion and Modernization
The airport is undergoing a $153 million transformation project that will significantly enhance its capacity and facilities:
- Terminal Expansion: Growing from 12,325m² to 37,543m² to accommodate rising passenger traffic.
- Capacity Increase: Annual passenger handling will expand to 3.6 million travelers post-expansion.
- Parking Infrastructure: Three new automated parking facilities will add 856 spaces for improved passenger convenience.
- Completion Timeline: The project was scheduled for completion by end-2018, marking a milestone in Angola's infrastructure development.
International Connectivity
The airport serves as a critical link between Angola and global destinations, hosting major carriers including:
- Air France
- Emirates
- South African Airways
This extensive network facilitates travel between Africa, Europe, and beyond, strengthening Angola's global economic and cultural ties.
Economic and Cultural Impact
As Angola's primary international gateway, the airport plays a pivotal role in:
- Boosting international trade and tourism
- Enhancing Angola's global image as an accessible destination
- Attracting foreign investment and facilitating cultural exchange
- Driving regional development through improved infrastructure
Strategic Importance
The airport's development extends beyond transportation, influencing:
- Diplomatic Relations: Enhanced connectivity supports international political engagement.
- Cultural Exchange: Increased international flights promote cultural dialogue.
- Regional Growth: Airport expansion stimulates surrounding economic activity and tourism infrastructure.
Luanda Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport stands as more than a transportation hub—it represents Angola's growing connectivity with the global community. Through continuous infrastructure investment and service improvements, the airport is positioned to drive economic growth, elevate Angola's international profile, and welcome increasing numbers of global travelers to this dynamic African nation.
