Imagine planning a trip to Mozambique, landing at Maputo International Airport (MPM). Beyond knowing it as your destination, what essential information would you need? This article provides an in-depth analysis of MPM's key metrics from a data analyst's perspective, offering a detailed practical guide.
1. Airport Overview: Core Data and Key Identifiers
Maputo International Airport (MPM) serves as Mozambique's primary gateway, handling significant international and domestic air traffic. Here are the fundamental details to understand its basic operations:
- IATA code: MPM (used for ticketing and baggage tracking)
- ICAO code: FQMA (used for flight planning and air traffic control)
- Airport name: Maputo International Airport
- Country: Mozambique
- Elevation: 145 feet (44 meters) - affecting aircraft performance
- Coordinates: 25° 55' 14.88" S, 32° 34' 21.36" E (for navigation)
2. Geographic Location and Strategic Importance
Located in Mozambique's capital, Maputo International Airport occupies a strategic position as a crucial link between southern Africa and global destinations. Its significance manifests in three key areas:
- Regional transportation hub: As Mozambique's largest airport, MPM handles substantial international and domestic flights.
- Economic driver: The airport's operations stimulate growth in Maputo and nationwide, boosting tourism, trade, and investment.
- Humanitarian aid channel: During emergencies, MPM serves as a critical distribution point for relief supplies.
3. Infrastructure and Operational Capacity
MPM's operational efficiency depends on its infrastructure quality. Recent upgrades have enhanced its capacity to meet growing demand. Key facilities include:
- Runways accommodating large aircraft
- Modern terminal with check-in counters, security checkpoints, duty-free shops, and dining options
- Adequate parking spaces for aircraft maintenance
- Advanced air traffic control systems
- Comprehensive cargo handling facilities
4. Flight Information and Accessibility Analysis
Understanding MPM's connectivity is vital for travelers and cargo operators. Major airlines operating at MPM include:
- LAM Mozambique Airlines (domestic and regional routes)
- South African Airways (connections to South Africa)
- TAP Air Portugal (European routes)
- Qatar Airways (Middle Eastern and Asian connections)
Flight data analysis reveals direct connections, frequency, and punctuality metrics, assisting travel planning and logistics decisions.
5. Passenger Services and Experience
MPM prioritizes passenger comfort through various amenities:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access
- Diverse dining options
- Duty-free and souvenir shopping
- Currency exchange services
- Car rental facilities
- Luggage storage solutions
6. Future Development Trends
MPM's growth strategy focuses on five key areas:
- Infrastructure expansion to increase capacity
- Route network diversification
- Service quality enhancements
- Aviation logistics development
- Sustainable environmental practices
7. Practical Information
- Transportation: Taxis, airport shuttles, and rental cars connect the airport to Maputo city.
- Visa requirements: Mozambique requires visas for most visitors.
- Currency: Mozambican metical (MZN), available at exchange counters.
- Language: Portuguese (official), with English widely understood.
- Time zone: UTC+2
As Mozambique's principal aviation gateway, understanding Maputo International Airport's operations facilitates smoother travel and business planning. This comprehensive guide provides essential insights for navigating MPM effectively.