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Wind: 0.81 m/sec Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport - Your Link to Zambia's Copperbelt
Introduction
Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (IATA: NLA, ICAO: FLSK) is an airport in the Copperbelt Province of Zambia. Deemed Scheduled for December 2024, the Transforming Zambia's Civil Aviation Industry modern Ndola Airport was opened in the city of Ndola in 2021 to replace the former. The airport, which takes its name from the ex-Vice President of Zambia, serves as an important domestic/overseas gateway for air visitors in that part of Africa.
Airlines and Destinations
At present, it serves a number of airlines for domestic and international flights. Key airlines that drive traffic through the airport include Proflight Zambia, linking Ndola with cities throughout Zambia, and regional carriers like Air Tanzania serving Dar es Salaam. In addition, the airport is a cargo hub for carriers transporting goods by air to and from the burgeoning Copperbelt mining sector.
Number of Passengers and Flights
Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport has been recording an increase in both passenger and flight traffic since its launch. In the year 2021, Ndola airport managed to handle more than half a million passengers, up from the average population circulation at the former Ndola Airport. Flights likewise increased, formalizing the destination with about 50 scheduled flights daily, including a mix of domestic, regional, and international services.
How to Get Here
Ndola's town centre is roughly 15 km east of Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport, on the T3 road (the Ndola-Kitwe Dual Carriageway). It has a Dag Hammarskjöld Memorial Access Road, which visitors can use to enter the airport. The airport has great connectivity with neighboring cities, with different modes of transportation available.
Parking
The airport provides plenty of parking facilities for both short-term and long-term purposes. Visitors can also choose from premium, well-lit, on-site parking options - covered and uncovered spaces are available, with disabled visitor locations. Parking and stay charges are very affordable, and can be paid for in advance or after arrival.
Transportation Prices
Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (formerly Ndola International) is easy to get in and out of, with taxis available at essentially any time, day or night, for only a few Kwacha. Taxis and ride-sharing services are easy to come by, with rates into the Ndola city centre typically costing between $5-10. Additionally, buses and minibuses are available at a price of about $1 for the ride.
Terminal Layout
Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport has been upgraded with a large, modern terminal structure that is meant to provide passengers with an efficient and comfortable travel experience. The relatively compact terminal also consists of separate zones for departures and arrivals, with clearly signposted directional signs to facilitate the passenger experience through check-in procedure, security checks, and immigration processes.
Navigate the Airport
With the right layout and plenty of signs, getting around the airport is easy. It also makes it easy for passengers to locate the check-in counters, security checkpoints, and departure gates. The airport is equipped with a professionally manned information desk to assist travelers with any inquiries or directions.
Getting Between Terminals
Since the Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport has only one terminal, passengers do not need to transfer from another terminal. Everything at the sleek, modern facility happens all under one roof; arrivals, departures, and connections.
Services and Amenities
The airport has an extensive list of services and amenities that passengers can take advantage of during their stay. These include duty-free shops, eateries and cafes, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi across the terminal. Prayer rooms and ancillary facilities for passengers with reduced mobility are also located here.
Restaurants and Shops
There are several options available to those traveling through the Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport. There are a variety of local and international cuisines with multiple restaurants and cafes in the terminal. There are also duty-free shops to browse, selling souvenirs, electronics, and luxury goods.
Security and Customs
The airport takes extensive security measures, ensuring all passengers are safe and secure. Passengers are required to undergo security checks, including the standard metal detectors and bag screenings, before they can board their flights. Immigration and customs processes are extremely quick, with a separate counter for arrivals and departures.
Accessibility
Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport is disabled-friendly. The terminal has ramps, elevators, and accessible parking spaces for cars. Specialty help is available to all passengers who wish for some extra assistance on their journey.
Travel Tips
When you fly through the Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport, plan to be at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to accommodate check-in and security/immigration clearance. Additionally, passengers are urged to acquaint themselves with airport conditions and the services it has on offer, which can help enhance their travel experience.