About Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport

Welcome to the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport also referred to as KMI Airport located in Mbombela (Nelspruit) which is the gateway to the world’s most iconic game reserve, the Kruger National Park, its third largest canyon the Blyde River Canyon, ancient caves and many scenic & heritage attractions in close proximity.

Since commencing business operations in October 2002, KMI Airport has opened up the skies over Mbombela (Nelspruit) for over 3 Million passengers, affording new opportunities to the tourism and business industries of the province. KMI Airport serves an average of 260,000 passengers per annum.

This is an ICAO approved International Airport with a runway of 3.1km which can accommodate up to a Boeing 747 and Airbus series. The Airport also prides itself in being the holders of a Fire and Rescue Category 7 international aerodrome license, which is a first for the province.

The terminal building, constructed as an African theme all under thatch has a total floor space of 7350 square meters, making this the largest thatch constructed Airport in the world, a true aviation masterpiece to be seen. The unique aesthetics and decor of the building blend in with the surrounding bushveld, which has become a favourite landmark among passengers visiting the beautiful province of Mpumalanga, South Africa. The Airport is currently able to accommodate a passenger capacity of 600 000 per annum with significant expansion potential.

Upon your arrival, you are welcome to contact our information desk situated at the main entrance of the terminal building, our friendly team is here to accommodate and assist should you require any further assistance.

We welcome you to KMI Airport, your gateway to Africa.

Construction

Construction began in 2003 on this $150m project. The Taiwanese government contributed US$22m to the project.

It is part of King Mswati III's $1bn millennium project investment initiative to enhance Eswatini's position as a tourist destination, serving as a tourism gateway to Eswatini's game parks, either domestic or nearby located ones, such as Victoria Falls, Maputo, the Kruger National Park and KwaZulu-Natal game reserves.[7] However, it has been on the drawing board since 1980, and since then Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport has opened and Maputo and Durban airports have been upgraded.[8] There are also environmental concerns since Sikhupe is near Hlane game park, and may put rare species of eagles and vultures at risk.

King Mswati III International Airport was planned to replace Matsapha airport by 2010, with the latter being taken over by the army.

King Mswati III International Airport was inaugurated on 7 March 2014, despite not yet having an IATA license to operate. Service began 30 September 2014.

Our Community

Working together to make a difference

KMI Airport places a high priority on improving the quality of life within our local communities. The Airport is proud of its role as the economic engine of Mpumalanga and of its ongoing efforts to lead a wide variety of initiatives that impact the surrounding area.

Our employees at KMI Airport share a commitment to making a difference in the communities where we live & work, helping underserved groups gain skills and obtain employment opportunities.

Understanding the power of working together, we partner with suppliers, customers and vendors to maximize our impact in the community. We also back up that commitment with financial support by investing in programs and projects in our communities targeted at improving infrastructure & development.

KMI Airport represents a unique partnership with the 30,000 strong neighbouring Dwaleni community, which contributed some of its land to the 364ha airport site, and holds 10% in the airport through the Mbuyane Communal Property Association (MCPA).

The revenue earned by the MCPA from the Airport has been used to fund development and services for the community, such as roads, access to water and community facilities. MCPA is a communal property association, acting on behalf of the inhabitants of the Dwaleni Township and the Mbuyane tribe; PAM (Primkop Airport Management Pty ltd) makes a monthly royalty payment to MCPA, calculated per departing passenger.

KMI Airport continues to invest its resources in our various community outreach projects in the quest for making a meaningful difference.

Trusted with Tomorrow

As KMI Airport grows and competition for natural resources increases, our future success depends on strengthening and preserving today’s assets – our people, our airport and our community – for tomorrow.

KMI Airport embraces sustainability as a way to protect our environment, support our neighbors and develop our business. We are taking the steps today to ensure tomorrow’s success.