list of airports in Comoros

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The Comoros Islands, a beautiful and often overlooked archipelago in the Indian Ocean, are gaining traction as a unique travel destination. Understanding the airport infrastructure is crucial for planning a smooth and enjoyable trip. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in Comoros, covering their locations, services, and what you can expect when flying in or out of this island nation.

Overview of Aviation in Comoros

Comoros boasts a small but functional network of airports serving the three main islands: Grande Comore (Ngazidja), Anjouan (Ndzuwani), and Mohéli (Mwali). Air travel is the primary means of transportation between the islands, and international connections are steadily increasing, though still limited. The national airline, Air Comores, plays a vital role in domestic connectivity, alongside a few regional carriers. While the airports aren’t large or lavish, they are equipped to handle the current level of air traffic and are undergoing gradual improvements. Expect a more relaxed pace and a distinctly island feel compared to major international hubs.

Key Airports in Comoros: A Detailed Look

Let’s explore each of the airports in Comoros, detailing their specifics:

Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) – Grande Comore

Located near the capital, Moroni, on Grande Comore, Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in the country. It’s the primary gateway for international flights.

IATA Code: HAH

Location: Moroni, Grande Comore

Services: The airport offers basic amenities including currency exchange, a small duty-free shop, baggage services, and limited food and beverage options. There is a VIP lounge available.

Airlines: Air Comores, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and occasionally other regional carriers.

Destinations: Primarily connects to regional hubs like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, and other African cities. Domestic flights to Anjouan and Mohéli also depart from here.

Runway Length: 2,200 meters (7,218 ft)

Anjouan Airport (AJN) – Anjouan

Serving the island of Anjouan, this airport is essential for connecting the island to Grande Comore and, occasionally, to other regional destinations.

IATA Code: AJN

Location: Mutsamudu, Anjouan

Services: Basic facilities are available, including baggage handling and a small waiting area. Expect limited services compared to the international airport.

Airlines: Primarily Air Comores.

Destinations: Domestic flights to Grande Comore.

Runway Length: 1,500 meters (4,921 ft)

Mohéli International Airport (NWA) – Mohéli

Located on the smallest of the three main islands, Mohéli International Airport facilitates both domestic and limited international travel. It’s a crucial link for tourism to this ecologically rich island.

IATA Code: NWA

Location: Nioumachoua, Mohéli

Services: The airport provides essential services like baggage handling and a small terminal building. Services are basic, reflecting the island’s smaller scale.

Airlines: Air Comores, and occasionally charter flights.

Destinations: Domestic flights to Grande Comore and Anjouan.

Runway Length: 1,500 meters (4,921 ft)

A Table of Comoros Airports

Airport Name	IATA Code	Island	Location	Runway Length (m)	Services
Prince Said Ibrahim International	HAH	Grande Comore	Moroni	2,200	International flights, Duty-free, Lounge
Anjouan Airport	AJN	Anjouan	Mutsamudu	1,500	Domestic flights, Basic facilities
Mohéli International Airport	NWA	Mohéli	Nioumachoua	1,500	Domestic flights, Basic facilities
Ouani Airport	YWI	Anjouan	Ouani	800	Limited domestic flights
Itsandra Airport	ITD	Grande Comore	Itsandra	800	Limited domestic flights

Traveling Between the Islands

The most convenient way to travel between Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli is by air. Air Comores operates regular flights, but schedules can be subject to change, so it’s essential to confirm flight times in advance. Ferries are also available, but they are significantly slower and can be affected by weather conditions.

What to Expect at Comoros Airports

Be prepared for a more laid-back airport experience. Security checks are standard, but the overall atmosphere is less hurried than in larger international airports. It’s advisable to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure, especially for international flights. English is spoken at the airports, but knowing a few basic French phrases can be helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the main international airport in Comoros?
Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) on Grande Comore.

2. Is it easy to get a visa on arrival in Comoros?
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. It’s best to check with the Comoros embassy or consulate in your country before traveling. Visa on arrival is available for many nationalities, but having it pre-arranged is recommended.

3. What airlines fly to Comoros internationally?
Currently, Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways are the primary international carriers, alongside Air Comores.

4. How reliable are domestic flights in Comoros?
Domestic flights with Air Comores are generally reliable, but delays can occur due to weather or operational reasons. Checking the flight status beforehand is always a good idea.

5. What currency is used at the airports?
The Comorian Franc (KMF) is the local currency. However, US Dollars and Euros are often accepted, especially for international flights and at the duty-free shop.