Upington Airport

Upington Airport (UTN) is not merely an air gateway to the unique Kalahari Desert region in South Africa, but a facility with an impressive history and specifications. Built in 1968, it initially played a strategic role for long-haul flights and was even considered by NASA as a backup landing site for space shuttles. Today, the airport serves as a vital transport hub for tourists setting off on safaris, as well as for the large-scale export of grapes, for which the province is famous.

The main asset and distinctive feature of Upington Airport is its 4,900-metre long runway — one of the longest in the world and the longest on the African continent. This powerful infrastructure allows it to accommodate the heaviest types of aircraft, which is actively utilized for cargo transportation. Despite the modest size of the passenger terminal, the airport offers all necessary amenities for travellers, including car rental counters, a café, and rapid processing of formalities.

For tourists, Upington Airport is the ideal starting point for exploring natural wonders such as the Kalahari Desert, the Augrabies Falls National Park with its famous waterfalls, and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Its convenient location and unique characteristics make UTN a key element in the development of tourism and the economy of this picturesque corner of Southern Africa.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Upington Airport (UTN). We recommend always checking the relevance of the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: The most up-to-date information on schedules, services, and airport regulations can be found on the official airport page on the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) website: www.airports.co.za.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate enquiries, you can call the general number: +27 54 337 7900.
• Airport Address: Diedericks Road, Upington, 8801, Republic of South Africa.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the website or the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: News and important updates can be followed on the official social media pages of the management company, ACSA.
• Lost Luggage Information: Issues related to lost or damaged luggage are handled by the airlines. Please contact your airline representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance directly at the airport, please visit the information desk in the terminal or use the main helpline number.

Upington Airport (UTN) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre, so getting to or from it is not difficult. The journey usually takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. There are several transport options suitable for different categories of travellers.

Taxi and Private Transfer — the most popular and convenient way to reach your destination. You can find a taxi at the rank outside the terminal exit or book a transfer in advance through your hotel or an online service. This is particularly convenient if you have a lot of luggage. The cost of the trip is moderate, but it is recommended to check the fare with the driver in advance or ensure they use the meter to avoid misunderstandings.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those planning to explore the scenic surroundings of Upington and national parks, such as the Kalahari. Offices of several major rental companies are located within the airport building. By booking a car in advance, you can set off on your independent journey immediately after arrival. This provides maximum freedom of movement around the region.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided. There are both short-term and long-term parking zones available. Rates depend on the duration of the stay. The parking area is located in immediate proximity to the terminal, making it convenient to use.

Regarding public transport, there are generally no direct bus routes from the city centre to the airport. Occasionally, one might use minibus taxis, but for tourists with luggage who are unfamiliar with the local system, this may not be the most comfortable option. Therefore, for a guaranteed and timely journey, it is better to choose a taxi or car rental.

Upington Airport (UTN) is a compact and functional regional airport, the structure of which is intuitive even for an inexperienced traveller. It operates one passenger terminal, which serves all flights — both domestic and international (primarily to neighbouring countries).

The terminal layout is very simple. All main zones are located in one building and in close proximity to each other. Navigation will not cause difficulties: check-in counters, the security checkpoint, the waiting lounge, and the baggage claim area are all within a few minutes' walk. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between buildings.

Departure and arrival zones are under one roof but are logically separated. After check-in and passing security control, passengers enter a common waiting lounge before boarding. The arrival area with the baggage reclaim belt is located next to the main exit of the terminal, allowing for a quick departure from the airport after landing.

Thanks to the low passenger traffic, going through check-in and security procedures at Upington Airport takes minimal time. Long queues are rare here. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This allows ample time to clear all formalities without rushing, enjoy a coffee, and wait for boarding.

The history of Upington Airport (UTN) is inextricably linked with an era of great ambitions in aviation and astronautics. Opened in 1968, it was originally built as a military base, but its designers looked far into the future. The airport's main pride and record-holder became its runway. Its length is an impressive 4,900 metres, making it one of the longest in the world. Such a runway was necessary not only for heavy military aircraft but was also designed as an alternative landing site for American space shuttles in case of an emergency situation.

In the 1970s, Upington Airport played a key role in the history of supersonic civil aviation. It was here that the famous Concorde aircraft underwent testing in high-temperature conditions. The hot and dry climate of the Northern Cape in South Africa was ideal for testing the liner's engines and systems under extreme heat, which helped engineers perfect it. These tests brought the modest African airport global fame in aviation circles.

Over time, the airport's focus shifted from military and testing tasks to commercial transport. Today, Upington Airport is an important cargo hub, especially for the export of fresh produce. It is from here that tons of famous South African grapes and other fruits are sent to European markets. In addition to cargo operations, the airport serves passenger flights, acting as a gateway for tourists wishing to explore the unique natural beauty of the region, including the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and Augrabies Falls.

Upington Airport (UTN) is a compact regional airport offering passengers all basic amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Although the range of services here is not as extensive as in major international hubs, you will find everything necessary before departure or upon arrival in this corner of South Africa.

For those wishing to have a bite to eat, there is a café in the terminal where you can order light snacks, sandwiches, and hot and cold drinks. There is also a small shop selling essential items, press, and souvenirs. Specialized VIP lounges are absent at the airport; however, there is sufficient seating in the general waiting lounge for resting before boarding.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected, check emails, or plan your onward journey. Special stations and power outlets are provided in the waiting lounge for charging electronic devices. ATMs are installed in the airport for withdrawing cash; however, currency exchange bureaus may be absent, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance.

For passengers with special needs, an accessible environment is ensured, including ramps and equipped restrooms. Families with small children can use the mother and child room. In case of necessity, basic medical assistance can be sought at the first aid post. There are no hotels or conference halls directly within the airport building, but various accommodation options and business services can easily be found in the nearby city of Upington, which is just a few minutes' drive away.

Upington Airport (UTN) is a small regional air terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest and corresponds to its size. All options for refreshments are located in the single terminal, mostly before the security control zone (landside), making them accessible to all airport visitors.

The main place for dining is the café, offering a basic range of services for travellers. Here you can drink coffee, tea, or soft drinks, as well as order light snacks such as sandwiches, pastries, and chips. This place is ideal for a quick snack before boarding a flight. For a more substantial meal, the menu usually includes a few simple hot dishes, for example, a traditional English breakfast, omelettes, or burgers with chips.

Although the establishment does not specialize in fine dining, one can find a reflection of South African culinary traditions here in the form of popular local snacks, such as biltong (dried meat) or droewors (dried sausages), which are often sold in packaged form. The café's operating hours are usually synchronized with the flight schedule — it is open during periods of flight arrivals and departures.

Passengers with specific dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, as well as those looking for gluten-free or Halal meals) should note that the choice for them will be extremely limited or non-existent. In such cases, it is recommended to bring food with you. The price range in the café can be considered average for airports, without the inflated prices characteristic of major international hubs.

To ensure your journey through Upington Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these proven tips. Upington Airport mainly serves domestic flights within South Africa, so the atmosphere here is usually calm, but preparation is never amiss. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time is sufficient to go through all procedures without rushing.

Save time by checking in for your flight online in advance and saving your boarding pass on your mobile device. If you are travelling only with hand luggage, this will allow you to proceed directly to security control. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: window seats will offer you beautiful views of the Northern Cape landscapes, while aisle seats offer more freedom of movement.

Pay careful attention to packing your hand luggage. All liquids must be in containers with a volume of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in the cabin. If in doubt, it is better to check your airline's rules in advance or check the item into your luggage.

Passengers with transfers should study the airport map in advance and clarify whether they will need to collect and re-check their luggage. Have your passport and boarding pass ready when passing through customs control. Be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your trip and declare goods if necessary.

To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security control, and a light snack. Also, find out in advance about ways to get from the airport to the city — sometimes pre-booking a transfer is cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's counter for information and instructions. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses (food, drinks) to be able to claim compensation later. Clarify with the airline representative what services (for example, food vouchers or hotel accommodation) you are entitled to.