Alowe Airport (AWE)

Alowe Airport (AWE) is a private airstrip located within the Wonga Wongué Presidential Reserve in Gabon. This facility serves exclusively as an arrival and departure point for park management, conservation efforts, and authorized visitors to this protected wildlife area, which is known for its diverse ecosystems and significant wildlife populations. It is not open to public commercial aviation and does not host scheduled passenger flights. The 'airport' consists of an unpaved (grass or dirt) runway, suitable for light aircraft and bush planes, and has no traditional terminal building, operating on a purely functional basis for pre-arranged flights.

Operational procedures at AWE are highly restricted and require prior authorization from the Wonga Wongué Presidential Reserve authorities. There are no security checkpoints, air traffic control, or designated passenger facilities. Flights are typically operated by small, rugged aircraft suited for unpaved runways and are often chartered for specific purposes, such as ecological research, anti-poaching operations, or exclusive eco-tourism. Pilots must communicate directly with park management to confirm runway conditions and ensure the area is clear of wildlife, which can frequently cross the airstrip.

Amenities at Alowe Airport are non-existent for the general public. Travelers arriving at the airstrip are typically part of an authorized group and are met directly by reserve staff. There are no restrooms, food vendors, or retail shops. All essential services and provisions must be arranged through the reserve management. The remote and protected nature of the location means that careful planning and adherence to reserve rules are paramount for anyone utilizing this airstrip.