โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
International โ Domestic
60
minutes
International โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
90
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Pemba Airport (POL), also known as Porto Amรฉlia, is a primary regional aviation hub serving the Cabo Delgado province in northeastern Mozambique. The airport operates from a single passenger terminal that handles both domestic and regional international traffic, serving as the critical gateway for the multibillion-dollar Mozambique LNG projects in the Rovuma Basin. It acts as a vital infrastructure link, connecting the region to the national capital hub at Maputo (MPM) and international destinations like Johannesburg via carriers such as LAM Mozambique and Airlink.
The terminal infrastructure is currently undergoing a major $43.5 million modernization and expansion project scheduled for completion in 2026, which includes the construction of a new cargo terminal and a significantly enlarged passenger processing area. Present amenities include basic functional waiting lounges, streamlined check-in counters, and essential immigration services for regional flights. The facility is being upgraded to international standards with new power and water supply systems, ensuring a more professional and reliable environment for the high volume of technical and executive travelers associated with the energy sector.
A critical feature of the facility is its robust fuel and logistics infrastructure, supported by the nearby Mitra Energy terminal which maintains a specialized 5,000mยณ tank for Jet A-1. Ground transportation to central Pemba, located approximately 3 miles (5 km) from the airfield, is well-supported by local taxi services and pre-arranged corporate shuttles, with the journey typically taking 10 to 15 minutes. Due to the strategic importance and security considerations of the region, travelers are advised to coordinate all local logistics in advance and to arrive at least 3 hours before departures to facilitate thorough security screening.
๐ Connection Tips
Pemba Airport (POL) is the primary gateway to the northern coast of Mozambique and the Quirimbas Archipelago. The terminal is modern and handles regular flights via LAM and regional carriers Pemba is the easiest gateway to the Quirimbas because the airport and the island transfer network are already tightly linked.
Ground transport is efficient; official taxis meet all scheduled domestic arrivals from Maputo and reach central hotels or the harbor in 15-20 minutes for roughly 300-500 MZN. 'Tuk-tuks' are also plentiful outside the gates for a more affordable, though less comfortable, city link. Arrive 2 hours early for domestic departures. Facilities include basic cafes and tour operator kiosks. The harbor and resort transfers are the real value of the airport, so the flight makes sense only when the onward boat or lodge pickup is already scheduled.
A unique connection tip: most luxury island resorts provide private boat or light aircraft transfers from the airport; coordinate these with your lodge in advance. Ensure you have cash (MZN or USD) for transport The real value here is that you can step off the plane and head straight toward the harbor or a resort transfer without having to invent the rest of the day. In practice, that means Pemba is best treated as a fast access point to the Quirimbas rather than as a place to improvise transport after landing.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Beira Airport (BEW) is a major aviation facility serving the port city of Beira, the capital of Sofala Province in central Mozambique. As the second-largest and second-busiest airport in the country, it plays a vital role in national transport, providing essential domestic links to Maputo and international connections to major African hubs like Johannesburg. The airport features a single, modern terminal building designed with a simple and clear structure that facilitates easy navigation for both arriving and departing passengers. Its strategic location on the Indian Ocean coast makes it a key gateway for commerce, humanitarian logistics, and tourism within the region.
The terminal interior is organized to provide a logical flow through its various service areas. Facilities include dedicated departure and arrival zones, integrated check-in counters, and comprehensive immigration and customs offices for international flights. Travelers can access several amenities designed for comfort, including cafรฉs and snack counters offering light refreshments, as well as retail shops where local Mozambican handicrafts, souvenirs, and travel essentials are available. A VIP lounge is also situated within the terminal, providing enhanced comfort for business class passengers and those who choose to pay a separate access fee.
Operational procedures at BEW are standard for a regional international hub, with security and safety managed according to Mozambican aviation regulations. During the cyclone season, which typically runs from November to April, the airport's coastal position makes it susceptible to tropical weather events that can impact flight schedules. Passengers are generally advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic departures and three hours for international flights to allow for thorough baggage screening and personal security checks. Boarding at Beira often involves a short walk across the tarmac, offering travelers a direct view of the diverse range of aircraft serving the Sofala region.
Ground transportation from the airport is readily available, with official taxis stationed just outside the arrivals hall. The journey to central Beira is relatively short, providing quick access to the city's unique colonial architecture and coastal attractions. For financial needs, an ATM is located in the arrivals area, though it is highly recommended to carry a reserve of local currency (Mozambican Meticais) as machine availability can be inconsistent. Whether visiting for business in the industrial port area or embarking on an eco-tourism adventure to the nearby Gorongosa National Park, Beira Airport offers a functional and welcoming entry point to the heart of Mozambique.
๐ Connection Tips
Beira Airport (BEW) serves as the second-largest aviation hub in Mozambique, providing a critical link between the central provinces and the national capital, Maputo, as well as regional destinations like Johannesburg. Because the airport operates through a single, compact terminal building that houses both domestic and international operations, navigating for a connection is exceptionally straightforward. For passengers on a through-ticket, particularly with LAM Mozambique Airlines, the transition is managed within a unified secure area, and walking between gates typically takes less than ten minutes. However, for those on an international-to-domestic itinerary, it is essential to allow a buffer of at least two to three hours.
This window is necessary to clear immigration, collect any checked baggage, and pass through customs before re-checking for your domestic leg. Travelers with longer layovers can utilize the Flamingo Lounge, located landside on the first floor near the departure hall; it offers a quiet, air-conditioned environment with Wi-Fi and refreshments for business class passengers or those paying a separate access fee. A significant operational consideration at BEW is the regional weather; the city of Beira is highly susceptible to tropical storms and cyclones, particularly from January to March. During this period, flight delays and cancellations are common, so it is wise to monitor your flight status closely via the LAM app and avoid tight connection windows.
Ground transportation into Beira city center, which is about 12 kilometers away, is best handled through pre-arranged hotel shuttles or licensed taxis found outside the arrivals hall; always negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Inside the terminal, basic amenities include a small cafรฉ and retail kiosks selling local Mozambican handicrafts, which are perfect for last-minute souvenirs. Ensure you carry some local currency (Meticais) for small expenses, as the on-site ATMs can occasionally be unreliable.
โ Back to Pemba Airport