Moshi Airport is an important airport in Tanzania with a rich history dating back to the British colonial era even though it might not be as popular as Kilimanjaro International Airport which is located between Moshi and Arusha. It has been providing air transport services to Tanzania and nearby countries since 1954. Its strategic location, state-of-the-art equipment, and dedicated personnel make it a valuable asset to the region’s aviation industry.
Now that King Charles (Charles III is King of the United Kingdom and the 14 other Commonwealth realms) has been crowned as the King of England it reminds me of the old times when this airport that has lost its glory day, was pivotal in colonial times.
Moshi Airport is an important gateway to Tanzania and nearby countries. With a rich history dating back to the British colonial era, this airport has been providing air transport services since 1954. Owned and operated by Queen Elizabeth (King Charles’s mother) of Great Britain, it was known as “Moshi Aerodrome and King George VI Playing Field.” Its main purpose was to facilitate air transport services within Tanganyika territory and nearby countries, such as Kenya and Uganda.
Over the years, Moshi Airport has been operated by various departments, such as the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Ministry of Works, until the year 1999 when the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) was established. Today, the airport is classified as an Aerodrome Code 3C, with ICAO Code HTMS and IATA Code MSQ.
Facilitating General Aviation Aircraft
Moshi Airport is capable of facilitating General Aviation Aircraft (non-scheduled flight) with a maximum weight of 31,600 kg. The airport is also categorized as Fire CAT 1 as well as Meteorology services CAT –I according to ICAO categorization. This means that Moshi Airport has the necessary equipment and personnel to provide fire and meteorology services to its users.
Strategic Location
Moshi Airport is strategically located in the northern part of Tanzania, specifically south-west of the Municipal Center. The airport lies on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. The impressive snow-capped mountain’s stark peak reaches 5,895 meters or 19,341 feet above sea level. The airport’s location offers stunning views of the mountain and its surroundings.
Where is Kilimanjaro located? Find out here
Runways and Taxways
Moshi Airport has two runways, Runway A and Runway B. Runway A has designations of RWY 08/26 with a length of 1268 meters and a width of 30 meters. Runway B has designations of RWY 18/36 with a length of 1480 meters and a width of 30 meters. The airport also has two taxways with code TWYA and TWYB with a length of 70 meters and 12 meters, respectively.
Moshi Airport vs Kilimanjaro International Airport
Tanzania is a beautiful country that attracts millions of tourists every year. If you’re planning to visit Tanzania, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is your arrival airport. Two of the most popular airports in Tanzania are Moshi Airport and Kilimanjaro International Airport. In this article, we’ll compare the two airports to help you decide which one is best for your needs.
Check out the best hotels near Kilimanjaro International Airport
Moshi Airport: A Small but Convenient Airport
Moshi Airport is a small airport located in the northern part of Tanzania that only serves domestic flights. It was established in 1954 and has been providing air transport services to Tanzania and nearby countries ever since. The airport has two runways, two taxways, and can accommodate General Aviation Aircraft (non-scheduled flight) with a maximum weight of 31,600 kg. Moshi Airport is classified as an Aerodrome Code 3C, with ICAO Code HTMS and IATA Code MSQ.
One of the advantages of Moshi Airport is its location. The airport is located on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. This means that visitors can enjoy stunning views of the mountain and its surroundings.
Kilimanjaro International Airport: A Modern and Busy Airport
Kilimanjaro International Airport is a modern and busy airport located about 40 kilometers from Moshi that serves international and domestic flights. It is the second-busiest airport in Tanzania, after Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. The airport has one runway and can accommodate larger aircraft, such as Boeing 747 and Airbus A380. Kilimanjaro International Airport is classified as an Aerodrome Code 4E, with ICAO Code HTKJ and IATA Code JRO.
One of the advantages of Kilimanjaro International Airport is its modern facilities. The airport has a wide range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges. It also has excellent transport links, with taxis and buses available to take visitors to nearby destinations.
Which Airport Should You Choose?
Choosing between Moshi Airport and Kilimanjaro International Airport depends on your travel needs. If you’re planning to visit Moshi or the surrounding areas, Moshi Airport is the most convenient option. It’s a small airport that’s easy to navigate and offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. However, if you’re planning to visit other parts of Tanzania, such as Arusha or Serengeti, and other foreign countries plus destinations then Kilimanjaro International Airport is the best option. It’s a modern airport with excellent facilities and transport links. It also has more flight options and can accommodate larger aircraft.
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