Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport
The Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) is a relatively small privately owned public airport which caters mainly to those who are traveling to the internationally acclaimed Kruger National Park. It is located just outside Nelspruit, the capital of Mpumalanga in South Africa, and it is still relatively new having opened to business in 2002. The airport enjoys a strong African atmosphere with 7350 square meters of thatch-roofed buildings making up the main terminal building. The internal décor is designed to blend with the natural bushveld and as a result, KMIA is an aesthetically pleasing and atmospheric destination.
The Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is operated by Primkop Airport Management (Pty) Ltd. Its advantageous location has helped to make the skies over Nelspruit accessible for both local and international travelers. This has impacted tourism and business in the province and will likely prove to be even more advantageous in the future. The airport is situated roughly 23 kilometers outside of Nelspruit and is quite close to a number of heritage and conservation sites. The Kruger National Park is only a short half-hour drive from the airport and this has lead to the airport becoming known as the ‘Kruger Airport’. The airport features an asphalt runway with a length of 3100 meters and a width of 60m – dimensions which allow it to accommodate a variety of Boeings and an airbus series. The KMIA also has a “category 8 international aerodrome license” so you can expect excellent service.
When you land, you will find a variety of restaurants available where you can replenish your energy. There is also an exchange bureau, and ATM machine and a curio shop where you can make last minute gift purchases before leaving for home. Though the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is small, it has development potential for large airline cargo handling. The airport is currently popular with both local and international tourists and is also seen as the gateway to the Mpumulanga province. Make sure that you spend some time at this small but popular airport the next time you journey to the Kruger National Park or Nelspruit. It’s worth it!