Amborovy

• Official Website: Currently, Amborovy Airport (MJN) does not have its own official website. The airport is managed by Aéroports de Madagascar (ADEMA); up-to-date information can be found on their corporate resource: www.adema.mg.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +261 20 62 223 72. Before calling, it is recommended to check the validity of the number through your airline, as contacts may change.
• Airport Address: Amborovy Airport, Mahajanga 401, Madagascar.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the contact email of the management company ADEMA: contact@adema.mg.
• Social Media: There are no specialised social media pages for the airport. News regarding all airports in the country may be published on the Aéroports de Madagascar pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must contact the Lost & Found service of your airline directly. Airport staff do not handle these issues.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to booking, ticket changes, flight check-in, and special assistance, please contact your airline directly. The airport information desk in Mahajanga can assist with general information about services within the terminal.

Getting to Amborovy Airport (MJN) from the centre of Mahajanga is quite simple, as it is located just 6-7 kilometres to the northeast. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose from several methods: from a convenient taxi to colourful local transport.

The most popular and convenient method for tourists is a taxi. The journey from the centre of Mahajanga to the airport takes approximately 15–20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Important advice: since taxis here are rarely equipped with meters, always agree on the fare with the driver in advance to avoid misunderstandings. Another reliable option is to book a transfer through your hotel. This may be slightly more expensive, but it guarantees a fixed price and timely vehicle arrival, which is especially convenient for early flights or when travelling with large luggage.

For the most budget-conscious and adventurous travellers, there is the option to use local public transport — the so-called "taxi-brousse". These are shared taxis that run on specific routes. Although this is the cheapest way to get around in Madagascar, it is not the most comfortable: be prepared for cramped conditions and the lack of a strict schedule. Furthermore, the "taxi-brousse" may not drive right up to the terminal, and you may have to walk part of the way. This option is unlikely to be suitable if you have a lot of luggage.

If you value independence and plan to travel around the surrounding areas extensively, you can consider car rental. There are several local rental agencies in Mahajanga. This option gives maximum freedom, but please note that the driving style and the condition of some roads may be unfamiliar to international drivers. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available at Amborovy Airport.

To summarise, for most tourists, the optimal choice would be a taxi or a pre-booked transfer from the hotel — it is fast, relatively inexpensive, and reliable. Whichever method you choose, we recommend leaving for the airport with a little time to spare to calmly complete check-in and pre-flight formalities.

Amborovy Airport (MJN), serving the city of Mahajanga, is a small and compact aviation hub. It consists of one terminal, which is used to handle both domestic and occasional international flights. Thanks to its modest size, the airport is very easy to navigate, and travellers do not have to worry about complex transfers or long distances between zones.

The terminal layout is intuitive. All key zones — check-in, security, departure lounge, and baggage claim — are located in one building on a single level. This eliminates the need for transfers between terminals. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated: after entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general hall where the check-in counters are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a small waiting hall with a boarding gate.

The arrival zone is equally simple and functional. After disembarking from the aircraft, passengers walk to the terminal and enter the baggage claim hall with a single baggage belt. Immediately beyond it is the exit to the general hall, where you can meet a hotel representative or find a taxi for the trip into the city. The entire infrastructure is designed for quick and convenient passenger processing, typical of regional airports in Madagascar.

Completing all formalities usually does not take much time. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time is more than sufficient to check in for the flight and pass through security control without rushing. The main advice for navigation is simply to follow the signs, which will guide you from the entrance to the check-in counters, then to the security zone, and finally to your boarding gate. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

The history of Amborovy Airport (MJN), officially known as Philibert Tsiranana Airport, is closely intertwined with the development of aviation in Madagascar and the rise of the city of Mahajanga as an important regional centre. The first airfield on this site was established during the colonial period, presumably in the 1930s, to provide air transport for administrative and trade purposes. After World War II, its role increased significantly, and gradual modernisation began, as its strategic location by the Mozambique Channel predetermined its future growth.

A key stage in the airport's history was Madagascar gaining independence in 1960. The air harbour received its second, official name in honour of Philibert Tsiranana — the country's first president, which highlighted its national significance. In the following decades, the infrastructure continued to develop: the runway was lengthened and strengthened to accommodate larger aircraft, which contributed to an increase in passenger flow and cargo turnover.

The modern stage of development is associated with the growth of tourism. Significant work has been carried out to modernise the terminal and navigation equipment so that the airport meets international standards. Today, Amborovy Airport is capable of receiving medium-haul liners, such as the Boeing 737, making it a key transport hub for the entire Boeny region. It ensures stable connections with the capital Antananarivo and other cities on the island.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history is its dual role. It not only serves commercial flights but is also a base for the Air Force of Madagascar. The airport's main achievement can be considered its impressive transformation from a modest colonial airfield into a modern air gateway, offering travellers access to unique natural attractions of the west coast, such as the Ankarafantsika National Park and the famous "Cirque Rouge".

Amborovy Airport (MJN) offers passengers a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its modest size, the terminal is equipped with everything most important for travellers arriving in Mahajanga or departing from it.

Inside the terminal building, you will find several small cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat or drink coffee before your flight. There are also souvenir shops where you can purchase items from local artisans and memorable gifts. General waiting halls with a sufficient number of seats are provided for waiting for flights. There are no specialised VIP lounges, but the general atmosphere at the airport is quite calm.

For those who need to stay connected, Wi-Fi is available within the terminal. In the waiting hall, you can find sockets for charging electronic devices. The airport has currency exchange points and ATMs, which is especially convenient for tourists arriving from abroad. In case of unforeseen situations, there is a medical point ready to provide first aid.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with children — there are mother and child rooms. For travellers with reduced mobility, ramps are provided, and it is possible to request staff assistance for escorting during boarding and disembarking. There are no specialised business centres or conference rooms at the airport. There are also no hotels on the terminal premises, but a wide selection of hotels can be found in the city of Mahajanga itself, which is located a few kilometres from the airport.

When planning a snack or lunch at Amborovy Airport (MJN), it is important to remember that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of establishments here corresponds to this. Do not expect a large food court like in major international hubs, but the basic needs of passengers are catered for.

The main dining area is located in the main terminal, usually in the public zone before passing security control (landside). Typically, one or two small cafeterias or snack bars operate here. In the departure zone after security (airside), the choice may be even more limited or non-existent, so it is better to have a snack before checking in for your flight.

In the menus of local cafes, you can find both standard snacks and elements of Malagasy cuisine. Travellers are often offered fresh pastries, sandwiches, as well as local specialities, for example, sambos (samosas) — small triangular pastries with filling. This is an excellent option for a quick and satisfying snack. Available beverages include coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks. Finding a full hot lunch may be difficult, so for a substantial meal, it is better to eat in Mahajanga before travelling to the airport.

Passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, people with gluten intolerance) should be prepared for the fact that specialised dishes will likely not be on the menu. The choice may be limited to simple vegetable snacks or fruit. In this case, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you to avoid inconvenience.

The opening hours of catering establishments at Amborovy Airport are directly linked to the flight schedule. They open before departures and close shortly after the departure of the last aircraft. Prices for food and drinks here are higher than in the city but remain at an acceptable level for an airport.

When planning a trip through Amborovy Airport, serving the city of Mahajanga, use these tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible and avoid unpleasant surprises. The airport is not very large, but proper preparation is always useful.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. This time will be sufficient to check in for the flight and pass security control without rushing. Keep your passport and ticket handy to speed up the process.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. If you are flying from or to Mahajanga, try to get a window seat. You may see stunning views of the Mozambique Channel and the unique landscapes of Madagascar, especially the mangroves and the Betsiboka River delta. On domestic flights, which are often operated by small aircraft, a good view opens up from almost any seat.

Hand Luggage. The rules are standard: liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Pay special attention to souvenirs: the export of many types of local flora and fauna, as well as products made from them, is strictly prohibited and punishable by law. Check the export rules before purchasing.

Customs Control. When departing from Madagascar, be prepared for your luggage to be checked for the illegal export of precious stones, rare animals, or plants. Declare currency and valuable items in accordance with the rules. Upon entry, a migration card is filled out as standard.

Saving Time and Money. To save time, check in for your flight online if possible. Currency exchange at the airport may not be the most favourable, so it is better to exchange only a small amount for initial expenses, and the main part in the city. Bring an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing security control and avoid spending money on drinks.

Transfers and Flight Delays. If you have a transfer in Amborovy, check with the airline in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. In case of a flight delay, immediately contact your airline representative for information on further actions. Keep all receipts for food and drinks — they may be needed to receive compensation from the insurance company.