Wawi Airport

Wawi Airport, also known as Pemba Airport, is not just a runway, but the aerial gateway to one of the most mysterious and pristine islands in the Indian Ocean. It is here that your introduction to the "Green Island" of Tanzania begins, famous for its clove plantations, virgin forests, and world-class diving. Although the airport is small, it plays a key role in connecting Pemba with the mainland and neighbouring Zanzibar, providing travellers with quick and convenient access to this slice of paradise.

Wawi Airport is a compact and functional aviation hub that reflects the calm and measured rhythm of island life. Do not expect huge terminals or a multitude of duty-free shops here. Its main advantage is the simplicity and speed of service. The check-in and baggage claim processes are swift, allowing you to set off to explore the island without delay. The airport mainly serves small propeller aircraft, which in itself turns the flight into a picturesque aerial adventure with stunning views of coral reefs and turquoise waters. It is the ideal starting point for those seeking seclusion, authenticity, and a wish to immerse themselves in the unique Swahili culture.

Below is the essential contact information for Wawi Airport (PMA). Please note that for issues related to flight tickets, flight schedules, and baggage, you should contact your airline directly.

• Official Website: Pemba Airport is managed by the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA). Current information can be found on their official website: www.taa.go.tz.
• Help Desk Phone: It is recommended to contact your airline's representative office directly to clarify flight questions. General inquiries can be addressed through the TAA central office.
• Airport Address: Pemba Airport (PMA), Wawi, Chake Chake District, Pemba Island, Tanzania.
• Email: For general inquiries not related to a specific flight, you can use the Tanzania Airports Authority email: info@taa.go.tz.
• Social Media: Official news and TAA updates are published on their social media pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all questions regarding lost or damaged luggage, you must contact strictly the Lost & Found service of your airline.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Support regarding booking, ticket changes, and flight check-in is provided by the airline operating your flight.

Wawi Airport, serving the island of Pemba, is located a few kilometres from its administrative centre, the town of Chake-Chake. Despite its modest size, the airport is connected to the island's main settlements by several modes of transport, allowing travellers to choose the most convenient option for themselves.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly way to get to or from the airport is via local shared taxis known as dala-dala. They run between the island's main towns, such as Chake-Chake, Wete, and Mkoani. Please note that dala-dalas do not have a fixed schedule; they depart as they fill up, and the journey may not be the most comfortable due to the high number of passengers. This option is suitable for economical and adventurous tourists.

Taxi and Transfer. The most convenient and popular method of transport is a taxi. You can order a car from your hotel or find one in town. The trip from the centre of Chake-Chake to the airport will take just 10–15 minutes. The cost of a taxi ride is significantly higher than a dala-dala, but it ensures comfort, speed, and the safety of your luggage. For maximum convenience, you can pre-book a private transfer that will meet you right at the arrival terminal.

Car Rental. If you plan to actively explore the island, renting a car or scooter is a good solution. Several local companies offer such services. A car can be collected directly at the airport by prior arrangement. This will give you complete freedom of movement throughout Pemba. It is recommended to book transport in advance, especially during the high tourist season.

Airport Parking. There is a simple open-air car park within the Wawi Airport grounds. It is suitable for both short-term and long-term parking. Given the small size of the airport and low traffic, finding a free space is usually not a problem. The parking service is generally inexpensive or may be free of charge.

When planning a trip around Tanzania and neighbouring countries, it is also worth exploring flight options via other regional airports. Among them are Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa, and Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, which offer a greater number of international and domestic flights. Also nearby are airports in Tanga and Ukunda.

Wawi Airport (PMA), serving the picturesque island of Pemba, is a very compact and easy-to-navigate aviation hub. It is important to understand that this is not a major international hub, but a small regional airport, so its structure is simplified to the maximum.

The airport has just one terminal building, which serves both arriving and departing flights. There is no separation into Terminal 1 or 2, nor into domestic and international sections. All infrastructure is located under one roof, making movement through the airport extremely simple. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

The terminal layout is intuitively clear. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the main hall where the check-in counters are located. The departure zone consists of a small waiting area after passing through security screening. The arrival zone is an adjacent part of the building where baggage claim takes place. Since everything is located in one compact space, transitions between zones take literally a minute.

Thanks to the airport's modest size and low passenger flow, all pre-flight formalities are completed very quickly. Flight check-in and security screening rarely take more than 15–20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately one hour before departure to go through all procedures without rushing. The main advice for navigation is simple: follow the few signs or simply walk along with other passengers — you certainly won't go wrong.

The history of Pemba Airport (PMA), often called the gateway to the "Green Island" and associated with the Wawi location in development plans, is inextricably linked with the development of the Zanzibar Archipelago. Unlike large international hubs, this air harbour developed as a boutique regional node, vital for connecting the island with the outside world.

The exact date of the founding of the first airfield on Pemba is lost in the mid-20th century, when aviation in East Africa began shifting from episodic flights to regular services. Initially, it was a simple dirt strip intended for small propeller aircraft delivering mail, administrative staff, and cargo between Unguja Island (Zanzibar), Dar es Salaam, and Pemba.

A key stage of development was the modernisation of infrastructure after the region gained independence. The airport received a paved runway and a small terminal building. For a long time, the airport bore the name Karume (Karume Airport); however, in modern tourism and navigation systems, it features more often simply as Pemba Airport (PMA). In recent years, plans have been actively discussed and implemented to relocate or significantly expand capacities in the Wawi area to accommodate larger international liners.

Throughout its history, the airport has played a strategic role in the export of the island's main asset — cloves. Before the development of mass tourism, it was trade and government tasks that were the priority for this transport hub. Only in recent decades, with the opening of Pemba to divers and eco-tourism enthusiasts, has the passenger flow begun to shift significantly towards international travellers.

Interesting facts and features:

One of the most thrilling features of the airport is the approach for landing. Aircraft fly over the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and dense mangrove forests, making landing here a true attraction. Due to the short runway, the airport primarily accepts turboprop aircraft, such as the Cessna Caravan or ATR, which creates a special "safari travel" atmosphere even before stepping out into the town.

Wawi Airport (PMA), serving Pemba Island, is a small regional airport. Despite its modest size, it offers passengers a basic set of services and amenities necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight.

Within the terminal, 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 a few shops offering local souvenirs, daily essentials, and beverages. The selection is generally limited, so for serious shopping, it is better to head into town.

Standard halls are equipped for waiting for flights. Specialised VIP halls or airline lounges are generally absent. Access to Wi-Fi may be limited or provided for a fee, so it is better to have mobile internet with you. In the waiting hall, there are sockets for charging electronic devices. Passengers can use currency exchange services and ATMs, however, it is recommended to ensure you have local currency in advance.

The airport strives to ensure convenience for all categories of travellers. For passengers with children, mother and child rooms may be available, and for passengers with reduced mobility, assistance is provided during boarding and disembarking (it is recommended to notify the airline in advance). There is a first medical aid point at the airport.

Specialised business centres or conference rooms are absent at Wawi Airport. There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, the nearest accommodation options can easily be found in the town of Pemba, which can be reached by taxi.

When planning a departure from Wawi Airport (PMA), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport serving the island of Pemba, and the choice of dining establishments here is very limited. Do not expect large food courts or a variety of restaurants as found in major international hubs.

Generally, all opportunities for a snack are concentrated in one small cafe or kiosk located in the main waiting hall before the security control zone (landside). Here, travellers can purchase basic beverages — bottled water, soda, tea, or coffee — as well as light snacks such as biscuits, crisps, or nuts. Sometimes the assortment includes simple local pastries, for example, samosas or mandazi, which will be an excellent option for a quick introduction to the cuisine of Tanzania.

Having a full lunch or dinner at Wawi Airport is not possible — there are no restaurants here offering hot meals. If you need a substantial meal, it is better to do so in advance at one of the establishments in town. This is an especially important tip for passengers with special dietary needs: finding vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or specific dietary options is practically impossible. We recommend bringing necessary food items with you.

The operating hours of the sole dining point are usually tied to the flight schedule. Prices may be slightly higher than in town, which is standard practice for airports. It is strongly recommended to carry cash in local currency (Tanzanian Shillings), as the ability to pay by bank card may be unavailable.

To ensure your journey through Wawi Airport in the town of Pemba goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these helpful tips. This small regional airport serves the island and is the gateway to its tropical beauties.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Despite the compact size, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. This will give you enough time to calmly go through flight check-in and security screening. If possible, check in online to save time in queues. Have your passport, tickets, and visa ready if required for travel within Tanzania.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. When flying to or from Pemba Island, it is strongly recommended to choose a window seat. Stunning views of the Indian Ocean, coral reefs, and the island itself will open up to you. If freedom of movement around the cabin is a priority for you, choose an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage. The standards for carrying hand luggage here are the same as everywhere else: liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and sharp objects are prohibited. Pay special attention to souvenirs: the export of certain types of shells, corals, and other natural objects may be restricted. Always check the current rules of your airline.

For Passengers with Connections. If you have a connecting flight, be sure to clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be forwarded to the final destination automatically. In small airports, it may be necessary to collect and re-check suitcases yourself. Plan enough time between flights.

Customs Control. The customs control procedure usually passes quickly. Be prepared to present your passport and migration card. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, inform the customs officer to avoid unnecessary questions and possible fines.

Saving Time and Money. To avoid extra charges for excess weight, check your airline's baggage allowance in advance. The choice of cafes and shops at Wawi Airport is limited, and prices may be higher than in town. Therefore, it is better to have a snack before arriving at the airport or bring light snacks with you.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representatives for information. Since the waiting hall is small, it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films with you to spend time comfortably while waiting for departure.