Port Elizabeth International Airport

Welcome to Port Elizabeth International Airport, affectionately known by locals and travellers as the "ten-minute airport". It earned this nickname due to its uniquely close proximity to the business centre of Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), making it incredibly convenient for tourists. Officially known as Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport since February 2021, this airport serves as the main aerial gateway to the Eastern Cape province and the starting point for journeys along the famous "Garden Route" and to national parks such as Addo, home to elephants. Established back in 1929, today it stands as a modern and compact transport hub.

Despite its modest size, the airport in Gqeberha offers everything necessary for a comfortable start or end to your journey. The terminal has been modernised and consists of a single building where the arrival and departure halls are conveniently connected by a retail area. Here you will find several cafes and restaurants, souvenir shops, as well as offices of leading car rental companies, which is particularly convenient for those planning to independently explore the coast and national parks of South Africa. The compactness of the airport is its main advantage: it is easy to navigate, and flight check-in and baggage claim proceed quickly, allowing you to head out towards your adventures without delay.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information about the airport can be found on the ACSA management company website: www.airports.co.za. Please note that the official name of the airport has been changed to Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport.
• Information Desk Phone: +27 41 507 7319 (airport information counter) or +27 11 921 6262 (general ACSA customer service centre).
• Airport Address: Allister Miller Drive, Walmer, Gqeberha, 6070, South Africa.
• Email: For general enquiries, it is recommended to use the address customercare@airports.co.za or the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: Official accounts of the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) are available on most popular social networks (e.g., X/Twitter: @Airports_ZA).
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly. Contact details are usually found at the check-in counters or on the carrier's website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance, you may approach the information desk in the terminal building or call the airport information helpline.

Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ), serving the city of Gqeberha, is conveniently located just a few kilometres from its business centre. Thanks to this, the trip to the terminal rarely takes much time. You can reach the airport in several ways, suitable for different budgets and preferences.

Taxis and Transfer Services are the simplest and fastest way to get to the airport. A trip from the city centre will take just 5–15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Popular ride-hailing app services (such as Uber and Bolt) operate in Gqeberha, offering comfortable conditions. The cost of a trip from the centre usually varies in the range of 60 to 100 South African Rand (ZAR). You can also use official taxi services or book a private transfer in advance, which is particularly convenient for families and large groups.

Car Rental is an excellent option for those planning to travel around the Eastern Cape region in South Africa. Counters for all major international and local rental agencies are located at Port Elizabeth Airport. You can easily return the car right before your departure. The roads leading to the airport have clear navigation. It is important to remember that traffic in the country drives on the left.

Public Transport in the form of direct bus or train routes to the airport is not provided. Although there is a network of minibus taxis in the city, it can be difficult to navigate for tourists unfamiliar with the local system. Therefore, to guarantee timely arrival for your flight, it is recommended to use a taxi or a rented car.

For travellers with their own transport, convenient parking is provided at the airport. There are zones for short-term and long-term parking located in immediate proximity to the terminal building. All parking zones are guarded, allowing you to leave your vehicle safely for the duration of your absence.

Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ), officially renamed Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, is distinguished by a structure that is simple and clear for passengers. The airport operates one main terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to its compact size and thoughtful layout, navigating through it causes no difficulties even for those visiting for the first time.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building is divided into two main levels: the Arrivals Hall is located on the ground floor, and the Departures Hall is on the first floor. In the arrivals area, you will find baggage claim belts, customs control counters, car rental offices, and exits to taxis and public transport. To get to the departures area, simply take the escalator or lift to the first floor, where the check-in counters and security checkpoints are located.

Since all operations are concentrated in one building, passengers do not need to worry about transfers between terminals. The check-in and security screening process at Gqeberha Airport usually proceeds faster than in the country's major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in good time: 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage, pass through security control, and reach the boarding gate without rushing.

After passing through security, passengers enter the secure area (airside), where there are several shops, cafes, and waiting lounges. Despite its modest size, the airport offers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for your flight. For navigation, simply follow the clear signs in English. Airport staff are always ready to assist and answer any questions, making your stay here as convenient and peaceful as possible.

The history of Port Elizabeth International Airport, located in the city of Gqeberha, begins in 1929. It was then that an airfield was officially opened on this site, initially representing a modest complex with one runway, one hangar, and a wooden hut serving as a terminal. The first commercial flights were operated by Union Airways, delivering mail between Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. By 1936, the airport received its first official terminal and was named H.F. Verwoerd Airport, marking the beginning of its transformation into an important transport hub.

The airport played a significant role during World War II, when it was converted into a training base for the South African Air Force and the Royal Air Force. Fighter pilots were trained here, contributing to the Allied war efforts. After the war, commercial transport resumed with renewed vigour, and to meet the growing passenger flow, a new, more modern terminal was built in the 1950s, and the main runway was paved and extended.

Subsequent decades were marked by constant modernisation. In the 1970s and 1980s, the terminal and infrastructure were updated again to accommodate larger jet aircraft, such as the Boeing 737. In 1996, in accordance with changes in the country, the airport was renamed Port Elizabeth International Airport. The most large-scale reconstruction took place ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. As part of preparations for this event, the terminal was radically updated, runways and taxiways were improved, and passenger areas were expanded to welcome thousands of international fans.

In 2021, the airport's history took a new turn: it was officially renamed Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport. One of the most interesting facts about this airport is its unique location. It is situated practically within the city limits, making it incredibly convenient for travellers. Over its nearly century-long history, it has journeyed from a simple airfield with a wooden hut to a modern aerial gateway, opening the way for tourists to the treasures of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa.

Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ), despite its relatively small size, offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Here you will find cosy cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack before your flight, as well as several shops with souvenirs, press, and travel goods. For those flying internationally, a Duty-Free shop is available.

For passengers wishing to stay connected or work, free Wi-Fi is available in the terminal. Charging stations for electronic devices are also located throughout the airport. Although there may not be a dedicated business centre at the airport, necessary conditions for work, such as quiet zones and internet access, are often provided in the premium lounges.

Port Elizabeth Airport features a VIP Lounge, where passengers can relax in a calm atmosphere away from the main hustle and bustle. Guests of the lounge are usually offered snacks, beverages, fresh newspapers, and faster internet access, making the wait for departure especially pleasant.

Within the terminal, you will find ATMs and currency exchange points, allowing you to easily resolve financial matters upon arrival or before departure. A medical point is provided at the airport for first aid.

The airport is well-equipped for passengers with special needs: there are ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms. Passengers can request assistance services in advance. For travellers with small children, baby care rooms are provided, where you can change and feed your baby in a quiet environment.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, several hotels of varying comfort levels are located in the immediate vicinity. Most of them offer guests a convenient transfer to and from the terminal, making them an excellent option for those with an early flight or a long layover.

At Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ), passengers will find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal, located both before and after security control. Although the airport is not very large, it offers enough establishments to satisfy the basic needs of travellers.

In the public area (landside), before passing through security, you can find several cafes and quick-service restaurants. This is a great place to sit with family or those seeing you off. They typically offer sandwiches, pastries, breakfasts, as well as hot meals. Prices are generally in the average range, comparable to city cafes. The opening hours of these establishments usually cover the morning and evening departure peaks.

After passing through security (airside), in the departure lounge, the selection is slightly more modest but sufficient for waiting for a flight. Coffee shops and beverage outlets are located here, where you can order drinks, light snacks, and fresh pastries. This is an ideal option for a quick bite before boarding. Some establishments offer local cuisine; for example, you can find biltong (dried meat) for sale — a popular South African delicacy that is convenient to take with you on the flight.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian options such as salads or meat-free sandwiches can be found in most cafes. With vegan, gluten-free, or halal dishes, the situation may be more complex. It is recommended to verify the ingredients of dishes and the availability of suitable options directly with the staff at the establishment. For a full meal, the restaurants in the public area are best suited, while for a quick coffee and sandwich, the cafes in the departure zone are ideal.

When planning a departure from Port Elizabeth International Airport, located in the city of Gqeberha, it is important to calculate your time correctly. For domestic flights within South Africa, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, allow at least 3 hours. Although the airport is not a giant, extra time will allow you to go through all formalities without rushing, especially during peak seasons.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop-off or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint. The security screening procedure is standard: be prepared to present your boarding pass, remove laptops and other large gadgets from your hand luggage, as well as liquids in a transparent bag.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. Window seats will give you the opportunity to enjoy views of the Eastern Cape coast during take-off or landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight or want to be among the first to leave the cabin upon arrival. If legroom comfort is important, choose seats in the emergency exit rows, but note that special requirements may apply to them.

Pay close attention to hand luggage rules. The standard restriction for liquids is containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre. It is forbidden to bring sharp or cutting objects into the cabin. All valuables, documents, electronics, and portable chargers (power banks) should be carried specifically in hand luggage, and not in checked baggage.

If you have a transfer at Port Elizabeth Airport, clarify the procedure in advance. When transferring from an international flight to a domestic one, you will likely need to pass passport control, collect your luggage, and check it in again for the next flight. In the transit area, there are cafes and shops where you can comfortably spend time waiting for your flight.

Upon arrival on an international flight, you will have to pass through customs control. If you have no goods to declare, feel free to choose the "Green Channel". If you are carrying goods, the value or quantity of which exceeds established limits, you must go through the "Red Channel" and complete a declaration. Keep your passport and other travel documents ready for a quick check.

A few tips for budget-conscious travellers: book a taxi or transfer from the airport online in advance; this is often cheaper than taking a car on the spot. Take an empty water bottle with you to fill it at drinking fountains after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are traditionally high, so a light snack brought from home will help save your budget.

In case of a flight delay, first find the information board or check the departure status in your airline's app. Contact a representative of the carrier to obtain accurate information about the reasons and estimated departure time. Depending on the length of the delay, the airline may be obliged to provide you with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. Remain calm and use this time for rest or work.