I. Introduction
E TN W Arandis Airport, formerly known as Swakopmund Airport, is the main airport serving the Erongo region of Namibia. Located 13 km north of Swakopmund, it is a medium-sized facility that caters to both local and international flights. It is the second busiest airport in the country after Hosea Kutako International Airport.
The airport is managed by the Namibian Airports Company Limited (NACL), a state-owned corporation responsible for the operations, maintenance and development of the country’s airports and aerodromes. It works closely with the Ministry of Works and Transport to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel.
II. History of ETN W Arandis Airport
E TN W Arandis Airport was established in the early 1960s as a regional airport for Swakopmund. It was initially operated by the South African Air Force, but in 1989 the airport was turned over to the Namibian government. In 1992 the airport was officially opened by the then-Minister of Works and Transport, Mose Tjitendero, who renamed it ETN W Arandis Airport.
The airport was upgraded in 2011 with the installation of a new terminal, runway extension, and an expanded apron. It now serves as a transit airport for domestic and international flights. It is also used by private aircraft and is the home base for a number of airlines.
III. Flight Destinations
ETN W Arandis Airport is served by several airlines, including Air Namibia, South African Airways, and Flyafrica. It offers flights to destinations within Namibia, as well as to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Windhoek.
In addition, the airport is the hub for charter flights to and from destinations in the region, such as Botswana and Zambia. International flights are also available to South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe.
IV. Facilities and Amenities
ETN W Arandis Airport offers a range of facilities and amenities, including a modern terminal building, a control tower, and a 24-hour air traffic control service. The airport also has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as a business centre and a currency exchange bureau.
In addition, the airport has a car rental service, a travel desk, and a duty-free shop. Passengers can access free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
V. Accessibility
ETN W Arandis Airport is easily accessible from Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and other nearby towns. The airport is served by a bus service, which connects it to the cities of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Taxis are also available at the airport.
The airport is located within easy driving distance of the town of Swakopmund, which is just 13 km away. It is also conveniently located close to the Namibian coast.
VI. Environmental Impacts
ETN W Arandis Airport has a significant environmental impact, particularly in terms of air and noise pollution. The airport has implemented a range of measures to reduce its environmental impact, including the use of low-emission fuel, the installation of noise abatement technologies, and the use of sustainable building materials.
In addition, the airport has implemented a waste management system and is working with local stakeholders to ensure the protection of nearby wildlife.
VII. Economic Impacts
ETN W Arandis Airport has had a positive impact on the local economy. The airport provides employment for a range of people, from pilots and flight attendants to ground staff and baggage handlers.
In addition, the airport has been a major driver of tourism in the region. It has also provided an important link for trade and investment between Namibia and other countries in the region.
VIII. Conclusion
ETN W Arandis Airport is a major hub for air travel in Namibia. It provides a range of services and amenities, including shops, cafes, and restaurants. The airport has also had a significant economic and environmental impact on the local area. It is an important transit point for domestic and international flights and is easily accessible from nearby towns.