Sao Tome Island Airport

To contact representatives of Sao Tome Airport, obtain enquiry information, or resolve any issues, you may use the following contact details:

• Official Website: The most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations is available on the official airport website, managed by ANA (Aeroportos de Portugal): www.ana.pt/pt/stx/home.
• Helpline: For information, you can call the enquiry service at: +239 222 1222.
• Address: The airport is located at: Aeroporto Internacional de São Tomé, Ilha de São Tomé, São Tomé e Príncipe.
• Email: It is recommended to use the contact form available on the official airport website for communication, as a public email for general queries may not be available.
• Social Media: The presence of official social media pages should be verified on the airport's website.
• Lost & Found: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must immediately contact your airline representative at the airport or the baggage tracing service.
• Passenger Support: For general questions, you can contact the helpline or speak to staff at the information desks within the terminal building.

Sao Tome International Airport (TMS) is located just a few kilometres north of the country's capital, the city of Sao Tome. Due to this close proximity, getting from the city centre to the terminal is quick and hassle-free, with several options available.

Taxi — the most popular and convenient way to reach the airport. The journey from the centre of Sao Tome will take just 10–15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Taxis can be found at designated stands or simply hailed on the street. It is critically important to agree on the fare with the driver in advance, as taximeters are rarely used. Many hotels also offer a transfer service, which can be booked at reception. This is a slightly more expensive, but maximally predictable and comfortable option.

If you prefer independence in your movements, car rental is an excellent solution. Several rental agencies operate in the city and at the airport itself. With a rented car, you can not only reach the airport in comfort but also explore the picturesque corners of the island of Sao Tome & Principe at your own pace. The road to the airport is well signposted and will not cause any difficulties.

The public transport system in Sao Tome is represented mainly by route taxis (yellow minibuses) and moto-taxis. This is the most economical way to travel, allowing you to immerse yourself in local life. However, this option has its downsides: the lack of a clear schedule and a direct route to the terminal entrance can create inconvenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are pressed for time. This method is more suitable for experienced travellers with light luggage.

For those travelling to the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is available in front of the terminal building. Here, you can leave your car for a short time to meet or see off passengers, or for a longer period if you are, for example, departing for the neighbouring island of Principe.

Overall, for most tourists, the optimal choice in terms of price, speed, and comfort is a taxi. Regardless of the chosen method of transport, we recommend setting off in advance. Despite the proximity to the city, it is worth arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one to calmly complete all pre-flight formalities.

International Airport Sao Tome (TMS) is a compact and easy-to-navigate aviation hub that serves all flights arriving in Sao Tome & Principe. Its structure is extremely clear, making your stay here comfortable even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one small terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, you do not need to worry about transferring between terminals — all zones are located in one building. The terminal layout is very simple: upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area with several check-in counters. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to passport control and security screening, after which they enter a small departure lounge.

The arrival and departure zones are clearly separated but located in close proximity to each other. The departure lounge is equipped with basic amenities: there is a small café, a Duty Free shop, and sufficient seating for waiting for your flight. The arrival zone includes passport control counters, a baggage reclaim belt, and customs inspection. Everything is located in one hall, so getting lost is virtually impossible.

Check-in and screening procedures at Sao Tome Airport usually proceed quite quickly due to the low passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-2.5 hours before an international flight departure to complete all formalities without rushing. Navigation is intuitive, but airport staff are always ready to help and suggest directions. The main tip is to follow the standard signs, and you will easily find the zone you need.

The history of International Airport Sao Tome (TMS) is closely intertwined with the history of the island nation of Sao Tome & Principe. The air harbour was founded and put into operation in 1961, during the Portuguese colonial period. Initially, it was a relatively small airfield built to ensure air connections between the remote island, the African continent, and Europe, playing an important role in the administrative and transport system of that time.

A turning point in the airport's development was the country's independence in 1975. From that day on, the airfield received the status of the main aerial gateway of the sovereign state. Its importance increased manifold, as it became a key element for establishing diplomatic ties, conducting trade, and, crucially, for the nascent tourism sector. For a long time, the airport's infrastructure remained modest, limiting its ability to handle large aircraft.

The true era of modernisation began in the 2000s. The airport underwent significant reconstruction, the main result of which was the extension and strengthening of the runway. This was a major achievement that allowed the air harbour to receive modern long-haul liners. Thanks to this, it became possible to open direct scheduled flights from Europe, particularly from Lisbon, which gave a powerful impetus to the development of the tourism industry on the islands.

Today, Sao Tome Airport is a compact but functional international hub that serves as the sole aerial gateway to the country. For every tourist, the journey to this exotic corner of the world begins right here. An interesting fact: the terminal is located in immediate proximity to the Atlantic Ocean coast, so during take-off and landing, passengers are treated to stunning views of the emerald jungles and the azure waters of the Gulf of Guinea.

International Airport Sao Tome (TMS) is the main aerial gateway of the island nation of Sao Tome & Principe. Despite its modest size, the terminal offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Here you will find several small cafés and beverage outlets where you can enjoy a coffee and have a snack of sandwiches or local pastries. Shops sell souvenirs, handicrafts, and travel essentials.

For passengers who value privacy and comfort, a VIP lounge operates at the airport. It offers a quieter atmosphere, beverages, and snacks. Access to Wi-Fi within the terminal territory may be limited, so it is worth checking the terms of provision on-site. Special charging stations are provided to help keep electronic devices powered up before departure.

Within the airport building, currency exchange points and bank branches function, where necessary financial transactions can be made. In case of unforeseen situations or feeling unwell, a medical point is available, ready to provide first aid.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with children and travellers with reduced mobility. There are mother and child rooms for infant care. For passengers requiring additional assistance, wheelchairs and staff escort are provided, and the terminal infrastructure includes ramps and specially equipped restrooms. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance regarding the need for special services.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but numerous accommodation options are located in the capital and its vicinity, which can be reached by taxi in a short time. Specialised conference halls or business centres are absent at the airport; however, basic conditions for work, such as a quiet place and the ability to charge a laptop, can be found in the VIP lounge.

When planning a departure from Sao Tome International Airport (TMS), it is important to consider that this is a small airport with a limited selection of dining establishments. The infrastructure here is quite modest, so for a full lunch or dinner, it is better to eat in the city of Sao Tome before travelling to the airport.

In the airport's single terminal, typically in the general area before security control (landside), a small cafeteria or snack bar operates. Here, travellers can purchase basic beverages such as coffee, tea, bottled water, and soft drinks, as well as light snacks. The assortment usually includes sandwiches, pastries, and packaged snacks. This is a convenient option for a quick bite before flight check-in.

You are unlikely to be able to try authentic local cuisine at the airport. For gastronomic discoveries, it is worth visiting restaurants in the capital. Specialised dietary options, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, are practically unavailable here. If you have strict dietary requirements, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you.

Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city. The opening hours of dining establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule and may be irregular, especially at night. Thus, Sao Tome Airport is suitable for having a cup of coffee or a quick snack, but not for a full gastronomic experience.

Planning a journey through the airport of Sao Tome city, the main aerial gateway of Sao Tome & Principe? Sao Tome International Airport (TMS) is a small but important transport hub for the island. To ensure your journey goes smoothly, make use of these tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before the departure of an international flight. Despite the modest size of the terminal, procedures may take longer than expected. The availability of online check-in depends on the airline, so be prepared to complete the procedure at the counter. There may be queues, so please be patient.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If possible, choose a window seat. The views of the island and ocean during take-off and landing are truly impressive. Pack all valuables, documents, necessary medication, and a portable charger in your hand luggage. Remember the standard restrictions on liquids (up to 100 ml in one container) and the prohibition of sharp objects.

Security Checks and Transfers. Security services and customs control work thoroughly but not always quickly. Be prepared to open your bags for inspection. Sao Tome Airport is rarely used for transit flights. If you have a connection, check the procedure with your airline in advance — you will most likely need to collect your luggage and check in for the next flight again.

How to Save Money. To avoid unnecessary expenses, weigh your luggage at home and ensure it complies with your airline's allowances. Exchange a small amount of money into the local currency (Dobra) in advance for minor expenses at the airport, as cards are not accepted everywhere. Checking in online, if available, will also save your time.

In Case of Flight Delay. Amenities at the airport are limited. There is a small waiting area and a café. In the event of a long delay, it is useful to have a book, downloaded films, or music with you. Keep in touch with your airline representative for up-to-date information on the flight status.