Port Alfred Airport

Introduction

Port Alfred Airport (IATA: AFD, ICAO: FAPA) is an airport in Port Alfred, a seaside resort town on the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Although small in size, this airport serves as an important hub connecting the region with the rest of South Africa and reaching out to international destinations. We cover all the important stuff in this detailed guide, from airlines and destinations to terminal layout maps and travelling tips.

Airlines and Destinations

Port Alfred Airport is a small regional airport located in Port Alfred, South Africa that operates scheduled domestic flights within the country. The primary airline serving AFD is Federal Air with scheduled flights to and from O. R. Tambo International Airport (IATA: JNB). The route is critical for both business and leisure travelers wanting convenient access to South Africa's largest city -- Johannesburg, the country's main international gateway.

In addition to the Federal Air service, as of late there have been charter flights that private operators conduct for both residents and tourists visiting Kigali.

Passenger and Flight Numbers

Its locally based, regional passenger throughput is significantly low, common for most South African major international airports due to its small size. Over the past few years, there have been about 30,000 passengers and accordingly flight movements.

The number of passengers may be low, but the airport is an integral part of the regional economy as it enables business passengers to fly in and also supports tourism traffic.

How to Get Here

It is only a few kilometres from the town centre, so we have immediate access to this air strip which makes it easy for all residents and tourists. Some options for leaving from the airport are:

• By Car: The airport is approximately just off the R72 coastal road, which in turn links Port Alfred to other significant towns and cities throughout the Eastern Cape. The airport can be accessed by private vehicle, rental car or taxi.
• By Bus: Regular local and regional intercity connections to Port Alfred are provided by e.g. Intercape, Greyhound from the central Bus station near airport grounds.
• Shuttle Services: More than 100 hotels and guesthouses in Port Alfred offer free shuttle to/from airport transfers for passengers who stay nearby.

Parking

There is a small car park for those driving themselves to Port Alfred Airport. In front of this terminal building is a parking spot, making access by individual passengers easy. There is free parking and no time restriction, so it's a good option for both short stay or long term stay.

Transportation Prices

Flights travelling to and from Port Alfred Airport are generally on the cheaper side, offering a number of transportation options. Fares for the journey between town center and airport are about R50 one-way by taxi. Shuttle services from the local hotels and guesthouses may differ in pricing but are typically very competitive.

The price of a bus ticket will vary depending on the service and where you are coming from, with prices usually ranging between R100 to over R300 for longer distance trips.

Terminal Layout

The terminal building at Port Alfred Airport is a tiny, efficient facility capable of handling the very modest passenger loads using the airport. The terminal contains both a departure and arrival hall with check-in desks, security screening area, and a small waiting lounge.

Small it may be, but you will find that the terminal is logically structured and simple to manoeuvre around with good signage directing passengers through processes.

Navigate the Airport

Being so small, Port Alfred Airport is also a cinch to get around with everything more or less in one terminal block. On arrival, the check-in counters and screening areas will be situated inside the primary terminal building. Security Check. Once you are done, head to the waiting lounge which has some seats and basic amenities.

Getting Between Terminals

Port Alfred Airport is a single-terminal facility, so you have no terminals to walk between. Everything is contained in the same compact building, and arrivals and departures all mix together, ensuring this already small airport to be seamless.

Services and Amenities

Although no airport can compete with the vast number of facilities and services available in international airports, Port Alfred Airport does have what passengers require. These include:

• Check-in counters
• Security screening
• Waiting area with limited seating
• Basic restroom facilities
• Complimentary Wi-Fi (wherever it's available)

With the fairly small size of the facility, passengers are no further than a stone's throw away from these services and breezing through various processes.

Restaurants and Shops

Dining and shopping opportunities are limited at the airport, but in line with its facilities for regional flights. There is a small café inside the terminal building with light snacks.

More ample dining and shopping are available in the nearby town of Port Alfred, with a selection of restaurants, cafes, as well as local trades.

Security and Customs

For South African travelers, security at Port Alfred Airport is much easier as it's a domestic airport. All passengers will be required to go through regular security screening, which involves removing shoes or any other metal items and scanning their carry-on luggage.

Customs clearance for overseas visitors will be at the passenger's ultimate destination in South Africa, not Port Alfred Airport.

Accessibility

Port Alfred Airport commits itself to providing facilities and services that are accessible for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. The airport is built in a way to meet the needs of all passengers and these include:

• Parking lots near the terminal
• Ramps and level access throughout the building
• Bathroom facilities
• Assistance with boarding and alighting at the request of the passenger

Passengers who need special assistance are encouraged to notify their airline or travel provider in advance so that they can be given appropriate attention.

Travel Tips

Travel Tips to Port Alfred Airport: Take advantage of your journey to and from Port Alfred Airport.

• Online check-in and show up on time: you should not wait until the last moment to check into your flight, make sure to get fully checked-in as soon as possible after purchase of your ticket (up to 120 days ahead); arrive at least one or two hours before departure.
• Secure packing: Learn the security regulations for carry-on items at your airport and then pack efficiently, as little screening will be needed.
• Free Wi-Fi: Use the free airport internet to stay connected and get some work done while you are at the terminal.
• You can enjoy a leisurely walk around the Port Alfred village in your free time, visit some of the stunning beaches and nature reserves or opt to dine at one of our local restaurants.
• Pre-arrange your ride: Make sure that you book an airport transfer, whether it's a taxi, shuttle or rental car, ahead of time so there are no hiccups while arriving and departing.

You could also help to make the whole process of going through Port Alfred Airport an enjoyable and stress-free one using those helpful hints.