Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport

Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport is the modern and main aerial gateway to the Copperbelt Province in Zambia, as well as to the southern regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Opened in 2021, this new airport complex replaced the old airport in Itawa and has become one of the most advanced in the country. It is named after Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe, a former Vice President of Zambia. Located near the memorial at the Dag Hammarskjöld crash site, the airport symbolizes a new era in the development of regional air travel, offering passengers a high level of comfort and safety.

Airport Features and Services

Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe Airport is designed to meet the most modern requirements. Its 3.5 km runway is capable of handling large long-haul aircraft, such as the Boeing 777 and Airbus 350. For passenger convenience, the terminal is equipped with three aerobridges, which significantly speeds up boarding and disembarking. Additionally, the infrastructure includes a cargo terminal, a hangar for aircraft maintenance, and even a 50-room hotel which is planned for opening. The airport plays a key role in the economic development of the region, handling not only passenger but also cargo transport, with a design capacity of up to 8,000 tonnes of cargo per year.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (NLA), located in the city of Ndola. We recommend always checking the relevance of the data on official resources, as contact details may change.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL). All official information, including flight schedules and services, can be found on their website: www.zacl.co.zm.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call +260 211 271044. However, we advise verifying the current number on the ZACL website before calling.
• Airport Address: Copperbelt International Airport, Ndola District, Copperbelt Province, Zambia.
• Email: For general and corporate inquiries, you can contact the management company ZACL via email: corporate@zacl.co.zm.
• Social Media: ZACL's official social media pages are a good source of news and operational updates regarding the airport's activities.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must first contact your airline's representative at the airport.
• Passenger Support Service: The information desk located in the airport terminal is ready to assist passengers with any questions regarding their stay at the airport.

There are several ways to get to Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport from the city centre of Ndola. The airport is located approximately 15 kilometres southwest of the city, and a journey by car usually takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi and Private Transfer — this is the most reliable and convenient way to reach the airport. You can order a car through your hotel, use the services of local taxi companies, or find an official taxi in the city. It is strongly recommended to agree on the fare before the trip begins to avoid inflated prices. This is the safest and fastest option, especially if you are travelling with a large amount of luggage.

For budget travellers, there is the option of public transport. In Ndola, as in many cities in Zambia, the main mode of public transport is minibuses. This is the cheapest method, though it may not be the most comfortable due to overcrowding and the lack of a strict schedule. This option is more suitable for experienced tourists ready to immerse themselves in local life. There is no direct railway connection to the airport.

Car Rental — an excellent choice if you plan to explore the surroundings independently or continue your journey across the country. Several car rental companies have representatives both in the city and at the airport. Having a car will provide you with maximum freedom of movement. Ensure you have the necessary documents, including an International Driving Permit.

If you arrive at the airport in a private or rented vehicle, parking is at your service. The airport grounds feature zones for short-term and long-term parking. This is a convenient option if you are seeing off departing passengers or leaving your car for the duration of a short trip.

Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (NLA) in Ndola represents a modern and convenient aviation hub. A key feature of its structure is one passenger terminal, which was opened in 2021. This new building serves both international and domestic flights, which significantly simplifies navigation for all travellers.

The airport layout is logical and intuitive. All main zones — check-in counters, security screening points, passport control, boarding gates, and the baggage claim area — are located under one roof. Thanks to its compact size and clear signage in English, orienting yourself in the terminal is very easy. Since all flights are handled in one building, passengers do not need to worry about transfers between terminals — they simply do not exist.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. After entering the terminal, passengers find themselves in the general hall where check-in counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, travellers head to the second level, where the security screening zone and (for international flights) passport control are located. Following this is a comfortable departure lounge with boarding gates, shops, and cafes. The arrival zone is located on the first level and includes passport control, baggage claim belts, and customs inspection.

Check-in and screening procedures at Ndola airport usually proceed quite quickly compared to major global hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 2-3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic one. This time will be sufficient to go through all formalities without rushing, even during peak periods. The main advice for navigation is simple: follow the signs, and you will easily find the sector you need.

The history of Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport is inextricably linked with the development of the entire Copperbelt region in Zambia. Originally known as Ndola Airport, it was built during the colonial era to serve the thriving copper industry. For decades, it served as the main aerial gateway for the city of Ndola and the surrounding territories.

The most tragic and globally known event in the airport's history occurred on 18 September 1961. The aircraft carrying UN Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld crashed while approaching Ndola Airport. This catastrophe, which claimed the lives of all passengers and crew members, forever inscribed the airport into world history. The crash site is today a national monument and memorial.

After Zambia gained independence, the airport was renamed in honour of Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe — a prominent freedom fighter and the country's second Vice President. This renaming was a tribute to one of the nation's founding fathers and highlighted the country's new identity.

A key stage in the modern history of the airport was the decision to build an entirely new, more modern complex. The old airport, located too close to the city centre, no longer met growing requirements and safety standards. Construction of the new Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport began in 2017, and in 2021 it was officially opened. This modern hub, located approximately 15 km from the city centre, took over all international and domestic flights, marking a new era in regional aviation.

Interesting fact: the old airport was unique for its location practically within the city limits. After its closure, its runway and infrastructure were considered for repurposing for urban needs, which is a rare example of renovating such large facilities. Thus, the history of the airport is a journey from a small colonial airfield to an ultramodern international complex, reflecting the development and ambitions of the entire country.

Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (NLA) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is a modern and well-equipped transport hub where the needs of every traveller are considered. In the terminal, you will find several restaurants and cafes offering both local dishes and familiar international snacks. Before departure, you can visit shops, including Duty Free, selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and much more.

For those who need to stay connected, wireless internet (Wi-Fi) is available throughout the airport. Charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting halls so you can prepare your gadgets for the flight without any issues. Business travellers may have access to business lounges and conference facilities where work can be done in a quiet environment.

For a more comfortable rest, you can use the services of VIP lounges. Here, guests are offered additional amenities, beverages, and snacks in a secluded atmosphere. Financial matters can be easily resolved on-site: ATMs and currency exchange points operate at the airport. In case of need, there is a medical post in the terminal for first aid.

The airport cares for all categories of passengers. Special mother and child rooms are equipped for travellers with children, where you can change and feed your baby in peace. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance and escort, and the terminal infrastructure is adapted for their convenient movement. If you have a long layover or an early flight, there are hotels located nearby where you can rest before your journey continues.

At Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (NLA), passengers can find several dining options to spend their time comfortably before departure. Although the selection may not be as extensive as in giant hub airports, there is everything necessary for both a quick snack and a full meal.

The main food outlets are located in different zones of the airport. In the public zone (landside), before passing security control, there is usually a cafe where you can have coffee with fresh pastries or a sandwich. This is a convenient option for those meeting or seeing off passengers. After passing control (airside), in the departure zone, the choice becomes wider. Here, travellers will find a main restaurant with à la carte service and a lounge area where beverages can be ordered.

For those with little time, cafes offering quick snacks such as sandwiches, salads, pastries, and drinks are ideal. If you have time for a leisurely meal, the restaurant in the departure zone will offer more hearty dishes. The menu usually includes standard international items such as burgers, pasta, and chicken dishes. Sometimes you can also find elements of local Zambian cuisine. If you are lucky, try the meat stew with nshima — a thick maize porridge that is a staple of the region's diet.

Passengers with special dietary needs should verify the availability of suitable dishes in advance. Simple vegetarian options are generally available (for example, vegetable salads or sandwiches). However, please note that finding certified Halal, vegan, or gluten-free dishes might be challenging. Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in the city. Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule, ensuring service for passengers on early morning and late evening flights.

To ensure your journey through the airport in the city of Ndola goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these tips. Planning and knowing certain nuances will help avoid stress and save time.

Arrival Time: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without rushing.

Check-in and Security: To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides such an option. At check-in counters, be ready to present your passport and ticket. During security screening, you must remove all electronic devices from your hand luggage, as well as liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag.

Seat Selection: If it is possible to choose a seat in advance, consider your preferences. Window seats will offer you unforgettable views of the landscapes of Zambia during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats ensure more freedom of movement during the flight, while seats in emergency exit rows offer extra legroom (sometimes for an additional fee).

Hand Luggage: It is strictly forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, flammable, and toxic substances in hand luggage. Always keep documents, money, valuables, and necessary medication with you. Before leaving for the airport, be sure to check the current hand luggage regulations on your airline's website.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the next flight or if you need to collect it and check it in again. Leave a sufficient time margin between flights, especially if you have to pass through border control.

Customs Control: Upon entering the country, have your passport and completed declaration (if required) ready. Be prepared to clearly answer the customs officer's questions about the purpose of your visit and the duration of your stay. Familiarize yourself with the rules for importing and exporting currency and goods to avoid unnecessary questions.

Saving Time and Money: Checking in online, travelling with light luggage, and carrying an empty water bottle (which can be filled after security) will help reduce expenses. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high, so bringing a light snack with you is a good idea.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the wait, the airline is obliged to provide drinks, meals, and in some cases, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to request compensation later.