The Arusha Airport in northern Tanzania launched 24-hour operations on August 25, 2026, following a government-backed Sh11 billion infrastructure overhaul, marking a pivotal shift for the region’s tourism sector and regional connectivity. The move, confirmed by Regional Commissioner Amos Makalla during an inspection of the newly installed runway lighting system, allows airlines to operate flights day and night, addressing long-standing restrictions that limited operations to 6 pm.
Key Officials Highlight Tourism and Economic Impact
Regional Commissioner Amos Makalla emphasized the transformation, stating, I am satisfied that the lights are working properly. Our airport is safe and ready for use.
He highlighted that the change would increase tourism and contribute to Arusha’s economic growth,
reducing delays for travelers arriving after traditional operating hours. Makalla also linked the upgrade to preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) conference, both of which will rely on the airport’s extended hours.
Mr. Edgar Mwankuga, Arusha Airport manager, noted the facility had been handling a growing passenger volume, particularly during peak tourism seasons. The completion of the lighting project means airlines can now schedule flights beyond previous limits, improving connectivity between Arusha and other domestic and regional destinations,
he said. The airport’s runway was extended from 1.64 kilometers to 1.84 kilometers, and the aircraft-parking apron expanded to approximately 15,000 square meters to accommodate larger planes like the ATR 72 and Bombardier Q400.
Airline Executives Praise Safety and Efficiency Gains
Engineer Peter Ulanga, CEO of Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL), underscored the benefits for tourists, stating, This is a tourism-oriented airport and we are located in an important tourism area. We receive many visitors travelling from Arusha to Zanzibar and from Arusha to Dar es Salaam. Having night flights will enable us to serve more passengers.
ATCL currently transports over 200 passengers daily from Arusha, with projections to increase to approximately 300 per day once night flights commence.
Infrastructure Overhaul Includes Lighting, Runway, and Terminal Upgrades
The government’s investment in Arusha Airport included installing a modern runway lighting system, a critical step for night operations. The project also involved extending the runway to accommodate larger aircraft and expanding the terminal to streamline passenger flow. Mr. Mwankuga highlighted that these upgrades will reduce the inconvenience caused by cancelled or delayed flights when travellers arrive after normal hours.
The airport’s shift to 24-hour operations aligns with broader plans to position Arusha as a key hub for regional travel. With Tanzania co-hosting the 2027 Afcon, the airport’s expanded capacity is expected to handle increased demand from international visitors, further solidifying its role as a gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, including Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
What’s Next for Arusha Airport?
With the infrastructure now in place, airlines are expected to adjust schedules to capitalize on the new flexibility. The move is also anticipated to benefit local businesses, including hotels, tour operators, and restaurants, by increasing visitor spending during off-peak hours. As Arusha prepares for major international events, the airport’s expanded capacity will play a central role in sustaining tourism growth and regional connectivity.
