Overview of Lilongwe International Airport
Lilongwe International Airport is the main airport in Malawi, serving the capital city of Lilongwe and surrounding areas. The airport has a single terminal building that handles both international and domestic flights. It is located about 27 kilometres from the city centre and covers an area of approximately 700 hectares.
The airport was opened in the 1970s and has undergone several upgrades since then. The most recent upgrade was completed in 2013, adding a new runway, taxiway, and apron. The airport can handle up to 500,000 passengers annually and has a wide range of facilities and services for travelers.
Lilongwe International Airport is served by several major airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, Kenya Airways, and Emirates. There are regular flights to destinations across Africa, as well as connecting flights to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
In addition to passenger services, the airport also has a cargo terminal that handles air freight and a general aviation terminal for private aircraft. There are also several car rental companies and taxi services available at the airport, making it convenient to get around once you arrive.
Overall, Lilongwe International Airport is a modern and efficient airport that provides a gateway to Malawi and the wider region. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, you can expect a comfortable and hassle-free experience at this airport.
Terminals at Lilongwe International Airport
Lilongwe International Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 is the main terminal and serves both domestic and international flights. Terminal 2, on the other hand, is a small building used for domestic flights only.
Terminal 1 is a modern facility that caters to all the needs of the passengers. It has a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering a variety of food and beverages. The terminal also has duty-free stores where passengers can purchase souvenirs, gifts, and other items at reasonable prices.
The departure lounge in Terminal 1 is spacious and comfortable, with ample seating options. Passengers can relax on comfortable benches or chairs while waiting for their flight. The departure lounge also has a children’s play area, which is perfect for families traveling with kids.
Terminal 1 also offers a range of services, including baggage storage, currency exchange, and car rental services. There is also a medical center at the airport, which provides medical assistance to passengers in need.
Terminal 2 is a small building located next to Terminal 1. It is used for domestic flights only and has limited facilities. However, it is well-maintained and provides a convenient option for passengers traveling within Malawi.
In conclusion, Lilongwe International Airport has two terminals that cater to the needs of all passengers. Terminal 1 is a modern facility that offers a wide range of facilities and services, while Terminal 2 provides a convenient option for passengers traveling within Malawi. With its excellent facilities and services, Lilongwe International Airport is a comfortable and convenient place for passengers to start their journey.
Airlines and Destinations
- South African Airways: Johannesburg (Domestic, International)
- Kenya Airways: Nairobi (International)
- Malawi Airlines: Blantyre, Johannesburg, Nairobi, Lusaka, Harare (Domestic, International)
- Proflight Zambia: Lusaka (Domestic)
- Ethiopian Airlines:
- Addis Ababa (International)
- RwandAir: Kigali (International)
It’s important to note that some airlines may have seasonal changes in their routes, so be sure to check with the airline directly for the most up-to-date information.
Transportation Options at Lilongwe International Airport
Lilongwe International Airport is the primary airport for Malawi’s capital city, Lilongwe. It is located approximately 25km from the city center.
There are several transportation options available to travelers arriving at the airport. The most popular option is to take a shuttle or taxi from the airport to their destination. There are several shuttle providers at the airport, including private companies and hotels. The cost of a shuttle ride varies depending on the destination and the provider.
Another popular option is to rent a car at the airport. Many well-known rental car companies have offices at Lilongwe International Airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. Renting a car gives travelers more flexibility and freedom to explore the city and surrounding areas at their own pace.
In addition to shuttles and rental cars, there is also a shuttle bus service that runs between the airport and several hotels in the city center. This is a cost-effective option for travelers who are staying in one of the hotels on the shuttle bus route.
For those who prefer public transportation, there are several train lines that run through Lilongwe. However, the train station is located outside of the city center, so it may not be the most convenient option for travelers who are staying in the city.
Overall, there are several transportation options available to travelers arriving at Lilongwe International Airport. Whether you prefer a shuttle, rental car, shuttle bus, or train, there is an option that will suit your needs and budget. It is recommended that travelers research their options before arriving at the airport to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival.
Parking Options at Lilongwe International Airport
For those who plan to drive to the airport, there are several parking options available to choose from. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking, with rates varying depending on the length of stay.
Short-term parking is located within walking distance of the terminal, making it a convenient option for those dropping off or picking up passengers. Rates for short-term parking start at MWK 500 for the first hour and MWK 200 for each additional hour.
If you need to leave your vehicle for an extended period of time, long-term parking is available. The lot is located a short shuttle ride away from the terminal and is equipped with 24-hour security. Rates for long-term parking start at MWK 5,000 for the first day and MWK 1,000 for each additional day.
There is also a VIP parking area, located close to the terminal with dedicated security and personalized service. Rates for VIP parking start at MWK 1,000 per hour.
No matter which option you choose, it is recommended to pre-book your parking online to secure your preferred spot and save money. Overall, parking at Lilongwe International Airport is affordable and convenient, with options available for all types of travelers.
Check-In Procedures
At Lilongwe International Airport, there are various methods for checking in for your flight. Firstly, passengers can check-in online through the airline’s website or mobile app. This is the most convenient and fastest way to check-in as it can be done from anywhere with an internet connection.
Alternatively, passengers can use the self-service kiosks located in the airport terminal. These machines allow passengers to check-in for their flights, print their boarding passes, and even select their seats. Self-service kiosks are ideal for travelers who prefer not to interact with a customer service representative.
Finally, passengers can opt for the traditional method of checking-in with a customer service representative. This involves approaching the airline’s check-in counter, presenting your travel documents, and receiving your boarding pass. While this method may take longer than online or self-service check-in, it allows passengers to ask any questions they may have and receive assistance with any issues they encounter.
Regardless of which method you choose, it is important to arrive at the airport well in advance of your scheduled departure time to allow sufficient time for the check-in process. It is recommended that passengers arrive at least 2 hours prior to their flight for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.
Security at Lilongwe International Airport
At Lilongwe International Airport, security procedures are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff.
To make your security check experience as smooth as possible, it is recommended to arrive at the airport early and have all necessary documents readily available for inspection.
Passengers will need to remove any metal objects from their pockets and place them in a tray along with their carry-on luggage before passing through the metal detectors.
Electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and cellphones will also need to be removed from bags and placed in a separate tray.
In addition, liquids and gels in containers larger than 100ml need to be placed in checked luggage or disposed of properly.
Following these procedures can help to avoid any delays or complications during the security check process.
Customs and Immigration Process at Lilongwe International Airport
Upon arrival at Lilongwe International Airport, passengers are required to complete an immigration form and submit it along with their passport for inspection. The immigration officer will ask a few questions regarding the purpose of your visit before stamping your passport and allowing you to proceed to baggage claim.
Once you have collected your luggage, you will proceed to the customs area where your bags will be scanned for any prohibited items. If you have any items to declare, such as valuable electronics or large amounts of currency, you will need to complete a customs declaration form.
When departing from Lilongwe International Airport, passengers are required to check-in for their flight before proceeding to immigration. At the immigration counter, you will need to present your passport, boarding pass, and any necessary visas.
After clearing immigration, you will proceed through security screening before reaching the departure gate. It is important to allow enough time for the customs and immigration process to avoid any delays or missed flights.
Amenities
- Food and beverage options including restaurants, cafés, and bars
- Duty-free shops offering a variety of goods such as perfume and electronics
- Newspapers and magazines for purchase
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
- Charging stations for electronic devices
- Luggage storage and wrapping services
- Showers and restrooms
- Medical assistance available if needed
Accessibility Services
Lilongwe International Airport provides a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. These include wheelchair ramps, designated parking areas, and accessible toilets throughout the airport.
Passengers can also request assistance from trained staff who are available to help with check-in, security clearance, and boarding. The airport also provides specialized equipment such as ambulifts to assist with boarding and disembarking from aircraft.
Connecting Flights at Lilongwe International Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Lilongwe International Airport, it is important to give yourself enough time. This airport can get busy and lines can be long, so try to leave plenty of time for check-in and security.
Make sure you have all necessary documents and boarding passes for both flights easily accessible. It is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the airport layout and know which gate your next flight will be departing from.
If you have a tight connection, inform a staff member and they may be able to assist you in getting through security or even provide transportation to your next gate. Lastly, make sure to keep an eye on the time and listen for any announcements regarding your flight.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Lilongwe International Airport, passengers should proceed to the baggage claim area located in the terminal.
There, they can retrieve their checked baggage by presenting their baggage claim tags to the staff at the designated airline counter.
If a passenger’s baggage is missing or damaged, they should immediately report it to the airline’s representative at the baggage claim counter.
A report will be filed and the airline will attempt to locate the missing baggage or repair the damage.
Passengers should keep their baggage claim tags throughout their journey as they may be needed in the event of lost or damaged baggage.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Lilongwe International Airport, travelers can call the airport’s emergency number – +265 882 095 705 – which is available 24/7.
The airport also has a medical center that provides basic first aid services and medication for minor illnesses.
In case of a serious medical emergency, the airport has an ambulance service that can transport patients to the nearest hospital.
The airport also has a pharmacy where travelers can purchase prescription medication or over-the-counter drugs.
Overall, Lilongwe International Airport has basic emergency and medical facilities that can provide assistance in case of any medical emergencies or requirements.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations within or near Lilongwe International Airport that offer convenience and comfort to travelers.
Here are five hotels located within 5 kilometers of the airport:
- Sunbird Capital Hotel (3.5 km)
- Latitude 13 (4.3 km)
- Crossroads Hotel (4.6 km)
- Malawi Sun Hotel & Conference Centre (4.8 km)
- Park Inn by Radisson, Lilongwe (5 km)
Each of these hotels provides different amenities and services such as restaurants, swimming pools, free Wi-Fi, fitness centers, and airport shuttle services. Travelers can choose a hotel that suits their preferences and budget.
Useful Tips
– Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight schedule to avoid any last-minute rush.
– Have all the required travel documents such as passport and visa ready for verification.
– If you need assistance, locate the information desk or ask any airport staff for help.
– Make sure to check the departure gate and boarding time for your flight.
– There are restaurants and cafes available for food and drinks, but they can be expensive. Consider bringing your snacks and water.
– Keep your valuables close and never leave them unattended.
– Access to Wi-Fi is available at the airport. Connect to ‘free-wifi’ and follow the prompts to log in.
– In case of any delays or cancellations, stay calm and contact your airline for assistance.
Contact Information
– Airport Information Desk: +265 1 794 700
– Lost and Found: +265 1 794 732 / 794 814
– Airlines Offices: Contact your specific airline for contact details
– VIP Lounge: +265 1 794 714
– Airport Police: +265 1 794 735
– Medical Clinic: +265 1 794 707, located in the terminal building
– Customs and Immigration: +265 1 794 706 / 792 147
– Airport Fire Station: +265 1 794 765
Airports Near Lilongwe International Airport
There are several airports located within a reasonable distance of the Lilongwe International Airport:
- Kamuzu International Airport – Located approximately 22 km southwest of Lilongwe International Airport, Kamuzu International Airport is the second largest airport in Malawi. Transportation options to reach Kamuzu International Airport from Lilongwe International Airport include shuttle services, taxis, and rental cars.
- Mzuzu Airport – Located approximately 313 km north of Lilongwe International Airport, Mzuzu Airport is a domestic airport primarily serving the northern region of Malawi. Transportation options to reach Mzuzu Airport from Lilongwe International Airport include flights, as well as taxi and car rental services.
- Blantyre International Airport – Located approximately 310 km south of Lilongwe International Airport, Blantyre International Airport is the main international airport serving southern Malawi. Transportation options to reach Blantyre International Airport from Lilongwe International Airport include flights, as well as taxi and car rental services.
When considering alternative flight options or layovers, it’s important to take into account the distance of these airports from Lilongwe International Airport and the transportation options available.