Arusha Airport Elevates to International Status: A Milestone for Tanzania's Tourism Hub

Aerocruise brings you exciting news from northern Tanzania! Arusha Airport (IATA: ARK) has officially transitioned into handling international flights, marking a significant upgrade that positions the city as a more direct gateway to one of Africa's premier safari and adventure destinations.

Arusha Airport Now Handling International Flights: A New Era for Tourism - TATO - Tanzania Association of Tour Operators

The upgrade, completed in mid-2025 with a investment of approximately TZS 11 billion (around $4-5 million USD equivalent), included key enhancements such as runway extensions (now up to 1,860 meters), installation of customs and immigration facilities, terminal expansions, and modern lighting for expanded operations. This allows the airport to accommodate larger aircraft and process international arrivals and departures seamlessly.

In June 2025 the Arusha Regional Commissioner Paul Christian Makonda, supported by the Tanzania Airports Authority, announced that the change reduces reliance on Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), about 50 km away. Travelers can now fly directly into Arusha, saving time and cutting ground transfer costs for visits to the Northern Safari Circuit—including Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Mount Kilimanjaro climbs.

The Initial international services focus on regional routes, particularly to Nairobi (Kenya), with carriers like Safarilink, AirKenya, Flightlink, and others launching or expanding flights. Kenyan airlines have shown strong interest in boosting connectivity between the two countries' tourism and business hubs. Further expansions could follow, especially with preparations for co-hosting AFCON 2027 (Africa Cup of Nations) alongside Kenya and Uganda.

The airport has also geared up for 24-hour operations starting early 2026, doubling passenger capacity (from around 150 to up to 1,000 at a time) and supporting round-the-clock flights to handle growing tourism demand.

This development is a game-changer for Tanzania's tourism sector—Arusha, long known as the "Safari Capital," now offers even easier access. Direct international flights mean quicker journeys to iconic wildlife experiences, cultural sites, and the vibrant city itself, nestled beneath Mount Meru.