Durban Airport - Your Window to the Sunny South African Coast
Introduction
The single international airport that serves the beautiful and bustling city of Durban, South Africa is called King Shaka International Airport (also known as Durban Airport). This state-of-the-art aviation facility, which was launched in 2010, has since been established as a key arrival point for both local and international tourists who are discovering the wonders of KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.
Airlines and Destinations
There are 14 flights on 6 different routes from Durban Airport, connecting DUR to another city in non-stop flights. Currently, there are 8 domestic flights from Durban - the longest connection is a 2,557-mile (4,115 km) non-stop route to Dubai offered by Emirates. British Airways, Emirates, and South African all have hubs here with direct services to over 30 global destinations.
Passenger Numbers and Flights
Durban Airport saw approximately 10 million passengers during the course of last year and averages around 27,000 passengers a day! With over 400 departures per day, more than Abuja Murtala Muhammed Airport and Port Harcourt International Airport combined, King Shaka International Airport is now the third-largest airport on a standalone functional basis in South Africa.
How to Get Here
King Shaka International Airport is situated some 35 km (about 22 miles) north of the Durban city center at La Mercy in KwaZulu-Natal. Visitors can take the services of rental cars, taxis, and transportation shuttles.
Parking
Both arriving and departing passengers can avail of the offered parking solutions such as short-term, long-term parking, or even valet.
Transportation Prices
The cost of transportation to/from Durban Airport varies based on the mode and distance from the city center. A taxi or shuttle service will usually cost between R200 to R400 one-way, and a rental car provides more flexibility at just a bit extra expense.
Terminal Layout
The airport consists of one single, modern terminal building which processes both international and domestic flights. The terminal is spacious and easy to navigate, offering a wide range of passenger facilities and services.
Navigating the Airport
Durban Airport is easy to find one's way around, and there are clear signs. Passengers can access check-in counters, security checkpoints, gates, etc. within the terminal easily and without much trouble.
Getting Between Terminals
With just one terminal at Durban Airport, you can forget about having to navigate between different terminals. It is a unique airport, as it accommodates all arrivals and departures under one roof.
Services and Amenities
Durban Airport offers a wide range of services and facilities to assist passengers during their journey, such as shops, restaurants, cafeterias, ATMs, currency exchange, Telkom payphones, pre-paid mobile phone cards, and free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
Restaurants and Shops
The terminal is home to an extensive array of restaurants that suit every palate and diet, serving from casual eateries to the most refined dining experiences. There are also a number of retail outlets for passengers to shop and purchase anything ranging from souvenirs to duty-free goods.
Security and Customs
To ensure that passengers travel safely and efficiently, Durban Airport implements strict regulations on security and customs. Passengers must reach the airport sufficiently ahead of their departures in order to complete the relevant formalities.
Accessibility
The airport is equipped with ramps, designated parking spaces, and can provide help upon request for any of the passengers travelling from the airport who have disabilities.
Travel Tips
Take the time to navigate through Durban Airport, and particularly during peak travel periods, encourage you to arrive at the airport earlier than usual. Passengers should learn about the layout and features of the airport so that they can optimally utilize their time while in this complex.