Botswana has so much to offer travellers that it’s not surprising to hear that the international terminal at Maun Airport is one of the busiest in Africa. The Okavango Delta, Linyanti, Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe National Park and the Makgadikgadi Pans draw tourists from all over the world. The country is also an important mining and industrial centre.
Currently, the airport serves about a quarter of a million passengers annually, and more people are arriving every year. It’s a great relief for these commuters to hear that this busy hub has been granted the government go-ahead for substantial improvements to cope with the influx.
A Sneak Preview of The Maun Airport Upgrades
The Maun Airport refurbishment is expected to cost over P8 Million (Botswana Pula) and will be carried out in stages, with temporary measures in place to cope with travellers in the meantime.
The first 2 phases involving the airport services area and airside works have already been completed, and improvements to the technical block and air traffic control tower are underway.
Future improvements include:
- More space and upgraded air-conditioning throughout the terminal.
- Dedicated check-in counters and comfortable lounges for passengers arriving at Maun.
- Improvements to the existing ablutions, waiting areas and café.
Related improvements include the addition of two more aircraft, a jet and an ATRS to the Botswana Airlines fleet. The existing improved transport system to and from the airport is also set to be upgraded accordingly.
Africa Time
Unfortunately, the project has already encountered several delays. This means, the renovations are expected to be completed during the last quarter of 2020.
Most airlines have made contingency plans to assist their passengers in the meantime, but some discomfort and disarray are to be expected when you travel on flights to Maun in the near future.
Planning a Trip to Botswana
For now, if you prefer to avoid the possible heat and discomfort of a temporary terminal, we recommend that you considering using Kasane instead of Maun Airport for your Botswana flights, and keep tabs on our blog and newsletter for updates.
Get in touch right away if you’d like to work with us in crafting a southern African safari that’s comfortable and convenient from touch down to take off.
