Mbeya Airport

Mbeya Airport (MBI) is not just an air gateway to the southwestern part of Tanzania, but a part of the region's living history. Emerging in the vicinity of a city founded during the "gold rush" era of the 1920s, this small airport has preserved an atmosphere of compactness and authenticity. It serves as a starting point for travelers eager to explore picturesque mountain landscapes and coffee plantations. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a vital role in ensuring transport accessibility for the city of Mbeya and its surroundings.

The main feature of Mbeya Airport is its exceptional proximity to the city. Passengers can reach the centre in just a few minutes, making it very convenient for short trips. The airport serves domestic flights, connecting Mbeya primarily with the capital, Dar es Salaam. This makes it an important transit point for tourists heading to the national parks in the south of the country.

It is worth noting that after the opening of the larger international Songwe Airport in 2012, located approximately 20 km from the city, the majority of commercial traffic was moved there. Mbeya Airport (MBI) has retained the role of an auxiliary airfield for smaller aircraft and charter flights, offering travelers a unique experience of arriving practically in the very heart of the city.

Below is the main contact information for Mbeya Airport (MBI). Please note that, as this is a regional airport, some data may only be available through the parent organization — the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA).

• Official Website: Typically, individual pages for regional airports are hosted on the portal of the Airports Authority of Tanzania (TAA). We recommend searching for up-to-date information there.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For information regarding flights and airport services, it is best to contact the general TAA numbers listed on their official website, or contact your airline directly.
• Airport Address: Mbeya Airport (MBI), Mbeya, Tanzania. The airport is located in immediate proximity to the city.
• Email: A direct email address for Mbeya Airport may not be publicly available. For official enquiries, TAA contact details should be used.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own official social media pages. Key updates may be published on TAA resources.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must contact the representative of the airline you flew with directly. The airport service does not handle the search for checked-in items.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Primary support regarding tickets, check-in, and flights is provided by the airlines. For general questions regarding airport infrastructure, please contact the TAA inquiry service.

Getting to Mbeya Airport from the city centre is possible via several methods, suitable for both budget-conscious travelers and those who value comfort. The distance from the centre of Mbeya to the airport is only about 3 kilometres, and a car journey usually takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and convenient option. You can find a taxi anywhere in the city. It is highly recommended to agree on the trip cost with the driver in advance to avoid misunderstandings. Many hotels also offer an airport transfer service, which is a reliable, albeit slightly more expensive solution. For solo travelers with light luggage, a more exotic option is available — a motorcycle taxi known as "boda-boda".

Public Transport in Tanzania is represented mainly by "dala-dala" minibuses. This is the most budget-friendly way to travel. Although there may not be a direct route to the terminal, some "dala-dalas" travel along the main road past the airport. This option is suitable for experienced and undemanding travelers ready for a potential wait and a short walk from the stop to the airport building. With a large amount of luggage, such a trip may be inconvenient.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those planning to independently explore the picturesque Southern Highlands region. There are several companies in Mbeya offering car rentals. You can pick up a car in the city and, by prior arrangement, leave it at the airport before departure. Parking is also provided on the territory of Mbeya Airport for those arriving in their own or rented transport.

Mbeya Airport (MBI) is a small regional aviation hub serving the southern mountain regions of Tanzania. Its structure is simple and functional, making it very convenient for travelers.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic departures and arrivals. Thanks to this, there is no need for complex transfers or the use of shuttles — everything is located under one roof. Such compactness is a great advantage, especially for those traveling light or valuing their time.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Upon entering the building, you find yourself in a general area with check-in counters for several local airlines. Immediately behind them is the security checkpoint, which leads to a small but comfortable departure lounge with boarding gates. The arrival zone is equally concise: passengers enter the baggage claim hall, and from there — directly to the airport exit, where taxis and greeters await.

Passing through check-in and security procedures at Mbeya Airport usually takes little time due to the low passenger traffic. As a rule, it is sufficient to arrive at the airport 1–1.5 hours before your flight departure to calmly check in luggage and complete all formalities. The main navigation tip is to simply follow the signs; getting lost here is practically impossible. The friendly staff is always ready to suggest directions if you have any questions.

The history of Mbeya Airport (MBI) is, in essence, the history of aviation development in the entire Southern Highlands region of Tanzania. It is important to clarify immediately: today, two airports operate in the vicinity of the city. The old Mbeya Airport (MBI), which is the subject here, is located directly within the city limits, while the new Songwe Airport (SOW), opened in 2012, is located outside the city and serves the majority of commercial flights.

The original airport in Mbeya was built back in the colonial era, presumably in the 1940s. For decades, it was the only air harbour connecting this remote but economically important agricultural region with the rest of the country, primarily with Dar es Salaam. Its role was invaluable at a time when ground transport connections were poorly developed.

The main stage of the airport's development was the post-war period and the time of Tanzania's independence, when it was actively used for domestic flights. However, its location within the urban development, surrounded by hills, imposed serious limitations. The short runway and complex terrain did not allow for accommodating large jet aircraft and made flights dependent on weather conditions. The airport could only serve small turboprop liners.

A key moment in Mbeya's aviation history was not the reconstruction of the old airport, but the decision to build a new one. With the opening of Songwe Airport in 2012, practically all regular passenger traffic was transferred there. The old airport (MBI) did not cease operations completely; today it is used predominantly for private charters, government, medical, and training flights. Thus, its history is an example of how a growing city and modern aviation requirements give way to new, more advanced infrastructure.

Mbeya Airport (MBI) is a regional airport serving the southwestern part of Tanzania. It provides passengers with a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for a flight. It is important to consider that, being a small airport, it offers more modest amenities compared to large international hubs.

Within the terminal territory, you will find small kiosks or cafes where you can buy snacks, soft drinks, and coffee. The selection of hot meals may be limited. There are also several shops offering souvenirs and essential goods. For more serious shopping or a full lunch, it is better to allocate time in the city before arriving at the airport.

Specialized VIP halls or business lounges are typically absent at Mbeya Airport. Passengers wait for their flights in the general waiting hall. Access to Wi-Fi may be limited or provided on a paid basis, so it is recommended to have mobile internet with you. The number of outlets for charging electronic devices may also be small — it is better to bring a portable charger.

Currency exchange points or ATMs may function in the airport building, however, for exchanging large sums or conducting complex banking operations, it is more reliable to use banking services in the city of Mbeya. In case of emergencies, a first aid post is provided at the airport.

Special services for passengers with children, such as play areas or separate mother and child rooms, may be absent. Basic facilities are provided for travelers with disabilities, but to receive assistance (for example, provision of a wheelchair), it is recommended to contact the airline in advance.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory. The nearest hotels and accommodation options are located in the city of Mbeya itself, which can be reached by taxi. Similarly, conference rooms and business centres are absent at the airport, but they can be found in major hotels in the city.

When planning a flight through Mbeya Airport (MBI), it is important to understand that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of dining establishments here corresponds to its size. Do not expect a variety of restaurants as found in large international hubs; however, having a snack before departure is quite possible.

Typically, in the airport's single terminal, in the general area before security control (landside), several small kiosks or one simple cafe operate. Here, travelers can purchase basic snacks, pastries, and drinks. This is an ideal option for a quick snack, rather than a full lunch or dinner.

The assortment usually includes:

• Drinks: Bottled water, carbonated drinks, juices, as well as local tea and coffee.
• Snacks: Chips, biscuits, packaged sandwiches.
• Local Specialties: Sometimes you can find simple Tanzanian pastries, such as samosas (fried pastries with filling) or mandazi (similar to doughnuts), which allow you to get acquainted with the cuisine of Tanzania.

Prices in such establishments are generally low. Regarding special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, or Halal dishes), their specific availability is unlikely to be guaranteed. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them. The operating hours of local cafes and kiosks are usually tied to the flight schedule and may be limited.

To ensure your journey from the airport of Mbeya leaves only pleasant impressions, make use of our tips. This is a small and cosy airport, serving mainly domestic and charter flights. Most procedures here are much faster and simpler than in major aviation hubs, which is a big plus for travelers.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in
For departure on a domestic flight, especially if it is a small safari aircraft, it is sufficient to arrive at the airport 1–1.5 hours before departure. Check-in takes place quickly right at the counter of your airline or charter operator. Forget about long queues and online services — everything here is resolved personally and promptly.

Luggage Restrictions: The Main Safari Flight Rule
This is a critically important point for those flying to national parks. Most small aircraft have strict restrictions: luggage weight should usually not exceed 15 kg per person (including hand luggage). Additionally, suitcases must be soft, without a rigid frame, as they are loaded into small luggage compartments. Clarify the exact requirements with your air carrier in advance.

Choosing a Seat for the Best Views
If you want to enjoy breathtaking views of the Southern Highlands of Tanzania from a bird's eye view, choose a window seat. on some small charter flights, seating may be free, so by taking a seat among the first, you will be able to choose the best angle for photos.

Amenities and Waiting for the Flight
Mbeya Airport is compact, with a basic set of services. There may not be a large selection of cafes and shops here, so it is wise to bring a bottle of water and a light snack with you. This will help save money and wait for boarding comfortably.

If the Flight is Delayed
In the event of a flight delay, finding a representative of your airline will not be difficult. Contact them for information. In the conditions of a small airport, communication usually happens faster, and you will be promptly informed about the flight status and further actions.

Customs Formalities and Souvenirs
Since the airport mainly serves domestic flights, there are no complex customs procedures here. However, remember the general rules for export from the country: the purchase and transport of souvenirs made of ivory, wild animal skins, or rare shells is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.