Introduction
IATA: LTD - Louis Trichardt Airport is a small airport serving the town of Makhado (formerly Louis Trichardt) in South Africa's Limpopo province. The airport is located at the base of the Soutpansberg mountain range, making it an ideal entry point for Louis Trichardt and surrounding areas. Though small, the airport is important as it connects the town to the rest of the country as well as the world.
Airlines and Destinations
At present, there are no scheduled commercial flights that fly to Louis Trichardt Airport. The airport serves mostly private and charter aircraft with some infrequent general aviation flights.
Airlines
- Airlink1 - Operated as a franchise of South African Airways
Travelers who fly in or out from Louis Trichardt will generally use larger airports within the area, like Polokwane International Airport (IATA: PTG), which is around 97 km away.
Number of Passengers and Flights
As such, there are few passengers and flights through Louis Trichardt Airport as no regular commercial services take place. Although the airport does not publicize detailed statistics about its operations, it is typically thought of as a small regional facility that meets local and private aviation requirements.
How to Get Here
Getting to Louis Trichardt Airport is pretty easy. It is a few kilometres from the town of Louis Trichardt, which can be reached by various means. The airport is accessible by road with a direct turnoff from the main entrance, and visitors can drive to the town using about a 10-15 minute drive.
Parking
Louis Trichardt Airport - Parking at the airport is limited for visitors. Although there are some park and pick-up bays near the terminal building, spaces in general are limited. Those who wish to go on a holiday must decide when they want to arrive and leave early, as parking space is limited at times of high traffic.
Transportation Prices
Louis Trichardt Airport does not have any scheduled commercial flights, so transportation prices to and from the airport can be subject to change without prior notice. Private transportation, including taxis, car rentals, and shuttles, will be the most common public options available if a visitor plans to travel further away from their resort; costs vary depending on the provider used or the distance travelled.
Terminal Layout
The terminal building at Louis Trichardt Airport is small and not much to look at, but perfectly functional for the handling of small aircraft operations. The terminal has only the most basic of passenger facilities, including a waiting area and check-in counters, as well as limited baggage claim. The terminal is pretty straightforward, as the overall layout makes it quite easy for travelers to navigate through.
Navigate the Airport
Travelling by air
Louis Trichardt Airport is very small and easy to navigate. Upon arrival, passengers can quickly make their way to the terminal building and avail themselves of various available amenities and services. The airport is very well signed, and passengers can easily find the way to parking, the check-in line, or baggage claim.
Getting Between Terminals
As Louis Trichardt airport only has one terminal building, passengers do not have far to walk between terminals. The airport experience is then streamlined and convenient, as every passenger arrives on the east side of departures and leaves through the west-side arrivals.
Services and Amenities
It is a small regional airport, but it has some services and amenities, such as a cafe, where passengers can purchase light meals when feeling hungry. These services include standard passenger amenities such as a waiting lounge, toilets, and a limited refreshment kiosk. Nevertheless, the scope of convenient facilities and services is inconspicuous compared to larger international airports.
Restaurants and Shops
Louis Trichardt Airport is nearly as small and does not have enough flights to warrant restaurants and shops in the terminal. Those in need of more choices for wining or dining can head to the nearby town of Louis Trichardt, where multiple stores, restaurants, and local merchants will cater to their needs.
Security and Customs
Louis Trichardt Airport is a regional airport, which means that it has few, if any, security checks or customs inspections. Passengers will still be subject to normal security clearances (screening of carry-on hand luggage and personal belongings). Customs pass smoothly as well, since the airport is mostly domestic and private aviation.
Accessibility
Louis Trichardt Airport was built with a view to being accessible for everyone, even passengers with disabilities. The immigration area is also accessible, and the terminal building, including amenities such as ramps, designated parking spaces for passengers with reduced mobility, to easily access registration points, check-in counters, or use purpose-built toilets.
Travel Tips
- Get to the airport with plenty of time in case you factor in slow clearing times or some unexpected delay.
- Rent a car, taxi, or another private transportation, since there are no scheduled commercial flights or regular buses directly to the airport.
- You will not be able to pack anything extra or extravagant, as the airport's merchants are limited in size and selection.
- Keep yourself updated with the ever-changing schedule and services of Louis Trichardt Airport, as it can be quite fluid.
Travelers should keep these tips in mind to make the experience more serene and free of hassles when using Louis Trichardt Airport.