BY SUKHDEV CHHATBAR
ARUSHA Airport is ready for round-the-clock operations following completion of a major runway lighting project, Regional Commissioner (RC), Mr Amos Makalla, announced on August 25.
Mr Makalla said all the newly installed ground lighting had been tested, describing the development as an important step in aviation services in the region.
“I switched on the lights and saw that they are all working. Our airport is safe and ready for use,” he said during an inspection.
He said 24-hour operations would strengthen tourism, trade and investment while improving Arusha’s preparations to host the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) assembly in October and activities linked to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Championships.
The Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) had earlier said night operations would begin soon following completion of the lighting system, which includes a dedicated power house, standby generator and transformer.
The formal launch of the services will be announced shortly after completion of some aviation formalities.
Arusha Airport has undergone extensive upgrading in recent years. Its runway now measures 1,860 metres by 30 metres and the airport is classified as upgraded to be able to handle day and night services. It can handle aircraft including ATR 72s, Bombardier Dash 8 Q400s and smaller Cessna Caravan aircraft widely used on northern-circuit safari routes.
The main apron can accommodate three ATR 72 or Q400 aircraft alongside smaller planes, while the renovated passenger terminal can handle up to 1,000 passengers at a time.
The airport also has immigration, customs and port-health facilities for international traffic. The Airport Manager, Mr Edgar Mwankuga, said round-the-clock operations would boost tourism and business while increasing regional and government revenue across northern Tanzania.
“We are ready to offer the best and secure aviation services to all our clients,” he said.
