Antananarivo Airport

Airport Features and Highlights

Ivato International Airport serves as the key hub for the national carrier and handles the majority of international flights arriving on the island. At the end of 2021, a new international terminal was launched here, bringing passenger service to a qualitatively new level. The spacious building, with a design inspired by Madagascar's endemic nature, is equipped with modern security and navigation systems.

A wide range of services is provided for the convenience of travellers:

• Waiting Areas and Lounges: The new terminal features comfortable waiting halls with Wi-Fi access, where you can relax before your flight.
• Shopping and Souvenirs: In Duty Free shops and retail outlets, you can purchase the island's main treasures — famous Malagasy vanilla, spices, chocolate, and raffia products.
• Financial Services: Currency exchange points and ATMs operate around the clock, allowing tourists to immediately obtain local Ariary for their onward journey.
• Dining: There are cafes and restaurants on the premises offering both light snacks and local cuisine dishes.

An interesting detail for transit passengers: just a few minutes' drive from the terminal is a famous crocodile farm, which is often visited during long layovers.

You can get to the centre of Antananarivo on official shuttles that run according to a schedule, or by using taxi services. The trip to the city usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic density, which is characteristic of the capital.

• Official Website: www.ravinala-airports.aero
• Inquiry Service Phone: +261 20 22 485 15
• Address: BP 46, Ivato, 101 Antananarivo, Madagascar
• Email: info.tana@ravinala-airports.aero
• Social Media: The airport is represented on Facebook by the operator page, Ravinala Airports.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage, it is recommended to first contact your airline's representative office. For items left in the terminal, you can write to the email: objets.trouves.tana@ravinala-airports.aero
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions and support, you can use the airport's main phone number and email.

Ivato International Airport (TNR) is located approximately 16 kilometres north of the centre of Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. You can get from the city to the airport in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and available time. When planning your route, be sure to consider that road traffic in the capital can be very heavy and unpredictable.

Taxi and Private Transfer — the most popular and convenient option for tourists. Official taxis can be found throughout the city, however, it is extremely important to agree on the cost of the trip before it begins. The approximate price from the city centre is 40,000–60,000 Ariary. An even more reliable method is to pre-book a transfer through your hotel or a specialized online service. This ensures a fixed price and saves you from the need to bargain.

Public Transport is represented by a special shuttle bus (Navette). This is a comfortable and budget-friendly way to get to the airport. Shuttles run on a route connecting the airport with key points in the city centre, for example, the Analakely district. The fare is significantly lower than a taxi. There are also local minibuses (taxi-be), but they are often overcrowded, and travelling with large luggage would be extremely difficult. There are no trains or metro in the city.

Car Rental can be a good solution for those planning to travel around the surrounding areas independently. Several rental agencies operate in the city and at the airport. However, please note that driving in Antananarivo is a real challenge due to chaotic traffic. Often, a more sensible choice is renting a car with a driver. If you are arriving in your own car, there is paid parking at the airport for short-term and long-term vehicle storage.

Travel Time is one of the most important factors. On average, the trip from the city centre to the airport takes about 45-60 minutes. However, during peak hours (morning and evening), this time can easily increase to 1.5-2 hours. Always leave with plenty of time to spare to avoid missing your flight.

Antananarivo Airport, also known as Ivato International Airport (TNR), consists of two main terminals, separated by flight type: one for international flights and another for domestic ones. This clear division simplifies navigation for passengers and helps efficiently distribute flows. The terminals are located in close proximity to each other, making the transfer between them quick and convenient.

The International Terminal is a modern building serving all flights outside Madagascar. Located here are the check-in counters for international airlines, passport control zones, and customs. In the departure zone, passengers have access to duty-free shops, several cafes, currency exchange points, and business lounges. The arrival zone is equipped with immigration control counters, baggage claim belts, and a customs post. Overall, navigation is intuitive thanks to signs in Malagasy, French, and English.

The Domestic Terminal occupies an older building and serves flights within Madagascar operated by local airlines. It is significantly smaller and more modest in terms of services than the international one, but fully handles its task. There are also check-in counters, a security screening area, and a waiting hall here. Due to its compact size, it is practically impossible to get lost inside.

To complete all formalities (check-in, baggage drop, passport control, and screening) for international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5–3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5–2 hours is usually sufficient. Procedures can take time, especially during peak hours, so it is better to have a buffer. The walk between terminals takes no more than 5–10 minutes, which is convenient for passengers transferring from an international flight to a domestic one or vice versa.

The history of the main airport of Antananarivo, known as Ivato (TNR), reflects the development path of all of Madagascar and its connections with the outside world. Initially built as a military airbase during the French presence, the airfield began its transformation into a key civil hub after the country gained independence. The official opening of the passenger terminal took place in 1967, marking a new era in international air travel for the island nation.

For decades, Ivato Airport served as the country's main air gateway. It was the home base for the national airline, Air Madagascar, and received flights from Europe, Africa, and Asia. The airport witnessed the growth of tourist flow to the island's unique natural treasures. Important stages of its development were linked to the gradual expansion of infrastructure to service an increasing number of passengers and types of aircraft.

The most significant event in the modern history of the airport was the large-scale reconstruction and construction of the new international terminal, which was completed in 2021. This project, implemented by the Ravinala Airports consortium, brought passenger service to a completely new level. The area of the new terminal is about 17,500 square metres; it is equipped with modern boarding bridges, spacious waiting halls, and new baggage handling systems. Its opening allowed for a significant increase in the airport's capacity — up to 1.5 million passengers per year.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting the airport's location at an altitude of about 1280 metres above sea level, which is a specific feature for pilots and affects the take-off and landing characteristics of aircraft. Today, Antananarivo Airport is not just a transport facility, but a modern and comfortable centre that is the first to welcome travellers arriving to discover the amazing world of Madagascar.

Antananarivo Airport (TNR), the main air gateway of Madagascar, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Regardless of whether you are arriving in the country or departing, here you will find amenities that will make your journey easier and more pleasant.

For those who wish to have a snack or do some shopping, the airport has several cafes and restaurants where you can try both local and international dishes. In the departure zone, there are Duty Free shops offering a wide range of goods: from souvenirs and local artisan products to perfumes, beverages, and sweets.

For a more comfortable wait, passengers can use the services of premium waiting lounges (VIP lounges). They offer a secluded atmosphere, snacks, drinks, and, as a rule, more stable internet access. Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special stands and sockets are provided for charging electronic devices.

The airport features bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points, allowing you to easily resolve financial matters upon arrival or before departure. To ensure the safety and health of passengers, there is a medical point on the premises, ready to provide first aid if necessary.

Travellers with children can use mother and child rooms equipped for baby care. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance, including escorts and the provision of wheelchairs. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance about the need for special services.

Although there are no hotels directly inside the terminal building, several hotels of varying comfort levels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, many of which offer free transfers for their guests. For business travellers, basic business services, such as work zones and meeting rooms, are most often available in the VIP lounges.

At Antananarivo Airport (TNR), passengers can find several options for a snack or a full meal, although the selection is not as extensive as in major international hubs. Most establishments are concentrated in the main terminal serving international flights.

Before Security Control (Landside): In the public zone of the airport, prior to check-in and passport control, there are several cafes and a small restaurant. This is an excellent place to have a leisurely lunch with those seeing you off. Here you can find both international cuisine dishes and get acquainted with local flavours. Prices in this zone are generally slightly lower than in the departure zone.

After Security Control (Airside): In the secure departure zone, the choice is usually limited to a few cafes and a bar. They offer sandwiches, pastries, salads, as well as hot and cold drinks. This is a convenient option for those who want a quick snack immediately before boarding the flight.

What to Try: If you have time, pay attention to Malagasy cuisine dishes. This might be your last chance to try something authentic, for example, a dish with zebu meat or traditional rice with a side dish. In the cafes, you can also find local snacks and sweets. Of course, standard European options, such as coffee, croissants, and sandwiches, are also available.

Special Dietary Requirements and Prices: Options for vegetarians are usually available, but they may be limited to simple dishes like rice with vegetables or salads. Finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal-certified dishes might be challenging. It is recommended to clarify the ingredients with the staff. The price range at the airport is higher than in the city, which is standard practice for most airports worldwide.

Operating Hours and Recommendations: Most dining establishments operate in accordance with the international flight schedule, opening a few hours before departure and closing after the last flight departs. For a quick snack, cafes in the departure zone are ideal, while for a full and quiet meal, it is better to choose a restaurant in the public zone before passing through control.

Travelling through the main airport of Madagascar, located in the capital Antananarivo, will be easier if you know a few nuances. Here are some tips that will help you orient yourself and make your trip more comfortable.

Arrival Time at the Airport. It is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before an international flight departure and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic one. Check-in and control processes may take longer than in major global hubs, so a time buffer will not be superfluous.

Check-in and Security Control. Keep all necessary documents (passport, flight ticket, visa) at hand. Be prepared for a thorough inspection of hand luggage and baggage. Procedures may seem leisurely, so maintain patience and follow the staff's instructions.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. If you want to enjoy views of the unique island landscapes during take-off or landing, choose a window seat. For greater comfort and the ability to stand up freely during the flight, an aisle seat is better suited.

Hand Luggage Rules. As in most airports around the world, restrictions apply to carrying liquids: no more than 100 ml in one container, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check the hand luggage and baggage allowance rules on your airline's website.

Tips for Transfer Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Allocate enough time between flights to pass all formalities, especially if you are flying with different airlines.

Customs Control Features. Upon entering and leaving the country, it is necessary to fill out a customs declaration. The export of certain goods, such as unprocessed gemstones, rare species of animals and plants, is strictly prohibited or restricted. Be sure to keep receipts for all major purchases and souvenirs to present them if necessary.

Saving Time and Money. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. To save money, exchange only a small amount at the airport for initial expenses — the exchange rate in the city is usually better. It is also worth booking a transfer to the hotel in advance to avoid inflated prices from taxi drivers at the airport.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay? In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's representative counter. Clarify the reason for the delay and find out about your rights to the provision of food, drinks, or a hotel depending on the duration of the wait. The airport has several cafes and waiting areas where you can pass the time.