Arusha and Kilimanjaro airports are two different airports located in Tanzania. The former is situated in the famous tourist town of Arusha, while the latter is near the popular mountain of Kilimanjaro. Many tourists get confused and think that these are one and the same airport, simply because they are both in Tanzania and they sound similar. This article highlights the differences between the two airports.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) is a small but modern international airport located 26 kilometers from Moshi Town, at the foot of Kilimanjaro mountain. It was opened in 2000 and it has one terminal, two runways and direct flights connecting KIA to many destinations worldwide, including Europe, Asia and the Middle East. KIA handles about 2 million passengers and some 20,000 flights a year. It is mainly used for international flights, but there are also domestic flights from KIA to the northern Tanzanian towns of Mwanza and Arusha.
Arusha Airport (ARA) is located 7 kilometers from the well-known tourist town of Arusha, in northern Tanzania. It is an ancient airport, constructed in 1941 during the Tanzania-Uganda railway project. It has one terminal, one runway, and it handles domestic flights only, as it is not an international airport. Arusha Airport is mainly used to fly to popular destinations in Tanzania such as the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar and some regional cities. The airport serves about six thousand passengers a year.
These two airports, located in the same country, may seem similar, but they actually serve two distinct functions. While Kilimanjaro International Airport is mainly used for international flights, Arusha Airport is limited to domestic flights. Each airport is uniquely positioned and built to cater to tourists and locals. The location and size of each airport is a factor to consider when flying to and from Tanzania, as each airport is optimized for different needs.
The Facilities at the Two Airports
Kilimanjaro International Airport has modern and luxurious facilities, services and amenities for international travelers, such as restaurants, shops, duty-free areas and a VIP lounge. Arusha Airport, on the other hand, has more basic facilities, such as a restaurant, a gift shop and basic security screening. It is important to bear in mind that facilities may vary, depending on the destination, so it is always important to check the availability of amenities beforehand.
Kilimanjaro International Airport also provides a wide range of transportation options to move passengers around the area. Taxis, buses and rental cars are available to transfer passengers to the nearby towns and safari parks. Arusha Airport, on the other hand, doesn’t provide any form of transportation and travelers have to arrange for their own transfer to the nearby area.
Kilimanjaro International Airport is equipped with the latest security systems and procedures, such as metal detectors and body scanners. It also observes strict baggage checks for all passengers. Arusha Airport also has security measures in place, but travelers may face more relaxed security procedures here. The airport also provides accommodation for travelers, for those who need a room for the night.
Comparison of Cost Efficiency
Kilimanjaro International Airport offers international flights with more competitive prices than Arusha Airport. The main reason is that many international airlines have direct flights to and from the airport. As a result, passengers have more options to choose from, with better prices and better quality services. On the other hand, Arusha Airport offers domestic flights which tend to be more expensive, due to the fact that most airlines don’t fly directly to and from the airport.
Another factor to consider is the airport taxes that passengers have to pay when using the international airport. All passengers departing from Kilimanjaro International Airport are required to pay airport departure taxes, unless they are on an international flight. Passengers departing from Arusha Airport, on the other hand, are exempt from airport departure taxes if they are on a domestic flight.
When comparing the cost efficiency of both airports, it is clear that the international airport is more cost-effective than the domestic airport. This is mainly due to the lower taxes, more competitive prices and better quality services at the international airport. Therefore, if you are looking for a cheaper and more convenient way to travel to or from Tanzania, then Kilimanjaro International Airport is your best bet.
The Pros and Cons of each Airport
Kilimanjaro International Airport has many advantages, but also a few flaws. One advantage is the abundance of direct international flights to and from the airport, which makes the process of traveling much easier for visitors. The airport is well-equipped with modern facilities and services, as well as reliable transportation options to nearby locations. Another advantage is that the airport has strict security measures, which makes it safe for all passengers. However, there are also a few drawbacks to consider. First, the airport departure taxes can be quite expensive for some passengers. Second, the airport can get quite busy during peak season, and this can lead to long queues and delays.
Arusha Airport has its own advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that there is usually no need to pay taxes when departing on domestic flights. The airport is also very convenient, as it is close to the main town of Arusha. It also provides basic facilities, such as a restaurant and a gift shop. The airport is usually less crowded than the international airport, which could mean shorter queues. However, the downside is that the airport is limited to domestic flights only, and there are no direct international flights to and from the airport. In addition, the security measures at the airport may be a bit more relaxed than the international airport.
Overall Comparison of the Two Airports
Overall, Kilimanjaro International Airport is the better option for international travelers. It offers more competitive prices, modern facilities and amenities, reliable transportation options and strict security measures. It also has a wide selection of flights from all over the world, making it the best choice for people looking for convenient and affordable international travel. However, for travelers looking for domestic flights, Arusha Airport would be the better option, as it is often cheaper and the security measures are a bit more relaxed.
Ultimately, it is important to consider all factors before choosing which airport to use. For example, you should consider the cost, the services and facilities available, the distance from your destination, and the level of security provided. In conclusion, while both airports offer excellent services to travelers, they are also quite different in terms of what they can offer.
Choosing the Right Airport for Your Trip
When choosing which airport to use, it is important to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each airport and to determine which one is best suited for your travel plans. For those traveling outside Tanzania, then Kilimanjaro International Airport is probably the best option, as it offers more competitive prices, numerous international flights, better facilities and strict security. For those traveling domestically in Tanzania, then Arusha Airport is probably the best option due to its cheaper fares, relaxed security procedures and proximity to the main tourist town of Arusha.
It is also important to bear in mind that the cost of flying depends on the airline, the destination and the dates of travel. Therefore, it is important to compare different airlines and do some research before booking your flight. Furthermore, it is important to make sure that you have the necessary documents and visa, if applicable.
To sum up, when comparing Arusha and Kilimanjaro Airports, it is easy to see that they offer different services and facilities. It is essential to understand the differences between them and to choose the right one for your particular travel plans.
Safety at the Two Airports
Safety is always paramount when traveling, and both airports are very committed to providing a safe and secure environment for travelers. Kilimanjaro International Airport is equipped with the latest security technologies and staffed by highly trained personnel, which ensures that all travelers are safe. The airport also has a zero-tolerance policy on illegal substances, and there are strict baggage checks for all passengers.
Arusha Airport also provides a safe environment for travelers with security measures in place,such as metal detectors and CCTV cameras. The airport is also constantly monitored by the local police and security personnel, providing an additional layer of safety. Furthermore, the airport provides accommodation for travelers, if they need to stay the night before their flight.
Overall, both airports provide a safe and secure environment for travelers. However, it is still important to be careful and to remain vigilant at all times, as no amount of security can guarantee absolute safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Arusha and Kilimanjaro Airports are two different airports located in Tanzania. The former is mainly used for domestic flights, while the latter is mainly used for international flights. Facilities, services, airport taxes and cost efficiency vary from one airport to the other, so it is important to compare them before deciding which airport to use. Each airport has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to understand them and to choose the right one for your particular travel plans. Ultimately, both airports provide a safe and secure environment for travelers, although it is still important to be vigilant and alert at all times.
