Ngoma Airport... Your Gateway to the Southern Province of Zambia
Introduction
Located in the Southern Province of Zambia, Ngoma Airport (IATA: ZGM, ICAO: FLNA) serves as an important transportation hub for its region. The rural airstrip, just 6 kilometers south of the village of Ngoma, is within a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Kigali International Airport, providing vital aerial connection to travelers exploring Rwanda's plethora of landscapes and wealth of cultural history in this landlocked country, whether they are locals or international tourists.
Airlines and Destinations
At this time, there are no regular commercial airline services operating at the airport. However, the airport does accommodate private and charter flights to serve regional enterprises, government departments, and a few tourists looking into Zambia's far-flung Southern Province.
Passengers and Flights
As a regional airport, Ngoma Airport has fewer passengers and flights than major international airports due to limited capacity. The airport is used by a small number of private and charter flights, bringing in visitors to the area.
How to Get Here
The airstrip is only a short drive from the village of Ngoma, so reaching it will be no problem. Road travelers can visit the airport using their private vehicles, auto-rickshaws, and taxis, which are good options at various times.
Parking
Visitor and traveler parking at Ngoma Airport is extremely limited. Because of the airport's relatively small size and rural location, it typically has on-site parking available; however, space is at a premium inside the security zones.
Transportation Prices
Transport to and from the Ngoma Airport is priced depending on how one arrives, and it may change at times due to any extra distance needed from the arrival point. Taxis and private transfers are usually more expensive, while local bus services or shared rides offer budget-friendly alternatives.
Terminal Layout
Ngoma Airport is a small rural airstrip with an unassuming terminal layout. The terminal building contains passenger check-in facilities, security screening services, and baggage handling. A single 9/27 runway at the airport adds to its aircraft operating infrastructure.
Navigate the Airport
As it is a small and uncomplicated airport, Ngoma Airport has few challenges to navigate. Even a new passenger can easily find the areas they need (e.g., check-in counters, security checkpoint, or baggage claim) with minimal wayfinding.
Getting Between Terminals
The airport has just one terminal building, so passengers need not manage different terminals. The facility will consolidate airport operations and services under one roof.
Services and Amenities
Being a small regional airport, Ngoma Airport provides only essential services. Basic amenities, including restrooms and potentially limited food and beverage options, are available if operating hours allow or on-site concessions are present.
Restaurants and Shops
Because Ngoma Airport is remote and small, there are only a limited number of restaurants and shops. While a few basic food and beverage options are available for travelers, the selection of retail or dining establishments is usually far from extensive.
Security and Customs
Passengers traveling to and from Ngoma Airport will be subject to standard carry-on, hand luggage, and checked security screening. Jomvu (Ngoma) is also an international airport featuring customs and immigration facilities to enable easy movement in or out of the country for travelers.
Accessibility
Due to its size limitations and resource constraints, Ngoma Airport presents challenges in facilitating the needs of disabled passengers. Passengers with special needs should contact the airport or their airline to check if appropriate assistance is available.
Travel Tips
- If you are expecting to fly into the city, not only can flight options seem limited due to the smaller airport offerings, but also book your plans well in advance. Volumes may be light, so book far ahead.
- Travel light. Since the airport is very basic with few luggage handling and storage options, travel lightly so that it travels easily.
- Get to the airport early: Expect long check-in lines and security at a small regional hub like Ngoma.
- Study the airport layout: Before you get to Ngoma, make sure that you have reviewed a terminal map of the airport so that key facilities are easy for you to locate.
- Be flexible: Smaller airports may be more vulnerable to weather or operational disruptions, so expect possible delays or schedule modifications.