list of airports in South Sudan

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South Sudan Airports: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

South Sudan, the world’s newest nation, is a country brimming with potential, though travel can present unique challenges. Understanding the airport infrastructure is a crucial first step for anyone planning a trip for business, humanitarian work, or exploration. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in South Sudan, covering their locations, services, and what to expect when flying in or out.

#ff6900 South Sudan’s Aviation Landscape

South Sudan’s aviation sector is developing, largely due to the country’s vastness and limited road network. Air travel is often the most practical, and sometimes the only, way to reach many destinations. The majority of airports are unpaved, serving primarily domestic and regional routes. Juba International Airport is the main gateway, handling the bulk of international traffic. Security considerations are paramount, and flight schedules can be subject to change with little notice. It’s essential to stay updated with the latest travel advisories and airline information.

#ff6900 Major Airports in South Sudan

While South Sudan boasts a significant number of airstrips and landing fields, a few airports stand out as key transportation hubs.

  • Juba International Airport (JUB): Located in the capital city, Juba, this is the largest and most developed airport in the country. It handles international flights from regional hubs like Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and Khartoum, as well as numerous domestic connections. Facilities include a main terminal, cargo handling, and limited duty-free shopping.

  • Malakal Airport (MAK): Situated in the Upper Nile State, Malakal Airport is a vital link for oil industry workers and humanitarian organizations. It primarily serves domestic flights, connecting to Juba and other regional towns.

  • Wau Airport (WAU): Located in the Bahr el Ghazal region, Wau Airport is another important domestic hub, facilitating travel to and from the northwest of the country. It supports UN and NGO operations alongside civilian flights.

  • Kuajok Airport (KJK): Serving the Warrap State, Kuajok Airport is a crucial point for accessing this region. It mainly handles domestic flights, often operated by smaller airlines.

  • Pochalla Airport (PCL): Located in Jonglei State, this airport is primarily used for humanitarian flights and access to remote areas.

#ff6900 A Detailed List of Airports in South Sudan

Here’s a table listing many of the airports and airstrips currently in use in South Sudan. Note that the condition and operational status of some airstrips can vary significantly.

Airport Name IATA Code ICAO Code Location (State) Surface Typical Usage
Juba International Airport JUB SSJU Central Equatoria Paved International & Domestic
Malakal Airport MAK SSML Upper Nile Paved/Gravel Domestic & Humanitarian
Wau Airport WAU SSWA Bahr el Ghazal Paved Domestic & Humanitarian
Kuajok Airport KJK SSKK Warrap Gravel Domestic
Rumbek Airport RBN SSUM Lakes Gravel Domestic & Humanitarian
Pochalla Airport PCL SSPC Jonglei Gravel Humanitarian
Akobo Airport AKO SSAB Jonglei Gravel Humanitarian
Ayod Airport AYD SSDY Jonglei Gravel Humanitarian
Bentiu Airport BTI SSBD Unity Gravel Humanitarian
Bor Airport BOR SSBO Jonglei Gravel Humanitarian
Kapoeta Airport KPT SSKP Eastern Equatoria Gravel Domestic & Humanitarian
Tonj Airport TJS SSTJ Warrap Gravel Domestic
Aweil Airport AWL SSAW Northern Bahr el Ghazal Gravel Domestic
Yambio Airport YAM SSYB Western Equatoria Gravel Domestic
Nzara Airport NRA SSNZ Western Equatoria Gravel Domestic
Mundri Airport MUD SSMN Western Equatoria Gravel Domestic
Maridi Airport MRI SSMI Western Equatoria Gravel Domestic
Panyagor Airport PGO SSPG Jonglei Gravel Humanitarian
Old Fangak Airport FFK SSNF Jonglei Gravel Humanitarian
Melut Airport MEL SSME Upper Nile Gravel Domestic/Oil Industry
Renk Airport REN SSRN Upper Nile Gravel Domestic
Abiem Airport ABI – Unity Gravel Domestic
Pariang Airport PGN – Unity Gravel Domestic
Manyo Airport MYO – Unity Gravel Domestic
Leer Airport LER – Unity Gravel Domestic

Note: This list is not exhaustive and airport conditions can change. The “-” indicates ICAO code information is currently unavailable.

#ff6900 What to Expect When Traveling Through South Sudan Airports

Traveling through South Sudan’s airports requires patience and preparedness. Here’s what you can generally expect:

  • Security Checks: Expect thorough security checks at all airports. Be prepared to present your travel documents and cooperate with security personnel.

  • Limited Facilities: Outside of Juba International Airport, facilities are often basic. Don’t expect extensive shopping, dining, or comfortable waiting areas.

  • Baggage Handling: Baggage handling can be manual and sometimes slow. Keep valuables in your carry-on luggage.

  • Flight Delays: Delays are common, particularly on domestic routes. Build flexibility into your travel plans.

  • Cash is King: Credit card acceptance is limited. Have sufficient US dollars in small denominations for airport taxes, visa fees (if applicable), and other expenses.

  • Photography Restrictions: Be mindful of photography restrictions, especially at security checkpoints.

#ff6900 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is a visa required to enter South Sudan?
Yes, most nationalities require a visa. It’s best to apply in advance through a South Sudanese embassy or consulate.

2. What is the main international airport in South Sudan?
Juba International Airport (JUB) is the primary international airport.

3. Are there many direct international flights to South Sudan?
Direct international flights are limited. Most travelers connect through regional hubs like Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Nairobi (Kenya), or Khartoum (Sudan).

4. What is the condition of most of the airports outside of Juba?
The majority of airports outside of Juba have gravel or unpaved runways and limited facilities.

5. Is it safe to travel to South Sudan?
The security situation in South Sudan can be volatile. It’s crucial to check the latest travel advisories from your government and exercise extreme caution.

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