December 20, 2022
1 Min. Read

Airport then and now

More than 80 years of airport experience, Zanzibar ex-parliamentarian Parmukh Singh Hoodan, 66, a vivid defender of heritage in Zanzibar, recalls: “In the 40s…..

..there were no electric lights at the runway, firemen from the airport brigade had to lit fire to show pilots the direction.” It was his grandfather, colonial architect Ajit Singh who designed the first aerodrome in Kisauni (small photo left) and also the subsequent old airport with its characteristic window ornaments (large photo left).After the collapse of the East African community in 1977, each country developed and managed its own civil aviation sector – with varying success. Zanzibar’s new Abeid Karume International Airport (AAKIA), built by China, had a decade-long delay in opening.

But now, with ground and passenger handling run by airport professionals DNATA from Dubai, the new terminal 3 (photo right) is finally operational modern VIP lounge Marhaba (entry $45 for non VIPs) and an inviting spice bar just opened.A whole line of shops is in the making, and among the, an express spa by Zuri Rituals, Wonders Boutique, Elias Jewellery, and a proper duty free. Operating 9 gates and 4 air bridges, the airport “is expected to serve more than 15 airlines and handle up to 20 flights daily in 2023” said Tom Alwyn-Jones, managing director of DNATA Zanzibar. Marhaba services can be booked online at www.marhabaservices.com.

Related Articles

March 31, 2021
3 mins.

Two Fumbas – One Idea

Find out all about new exciting seaside developments just outside Zanzibar city It’s all happening on the Fumba peninsula: Two major real estate developments creating modern living space with holiday flats and permanent family homes near the overcrowded capital. By ANDREA TAPPER Both aspiring seaside communities, started in 2015/16, fascinate locals as well as a […]
read more
October 23, 2023
2 mins.

The unknown side of Zanzibar

Location Most secluded in Zanzibar, The Bottom Line Feel like a VIP by the ocean The road maybe rocky, but the destination rewards us for travelling it. Like a Fata Morgana, white modern villas suddenly become visible high above the sea, a wooden deck with neatly arranged cabana-like double sun beds leads to an endless […]
read more
October 17, 2023
2 mins.

FAKE Picture – OR NOT?

By Elias Kamau A tree house in Stone Town? Too good to be true! When we received this photo at THE FUMBA TIMES, we became highly sceptical. Here’s a guide to help you recognise fake shots – especially in your social media.  The commonsense warning is clear: don’t believe everything your Facebook and Instagram friends […]
read more
October 3, 2023
2 mins.

LET THE SUNSHINE IN

A German couple, one of the first buyers of a beach front house in Fumba Town, wants to start a solar business here. Engineer Ronny Paul, 44, produces custom made solar systems.  There seems to be good news on the solar front: a first photovoltaic project is planned for Bambi in the heart of the […]
read more

Are you looking for a property in Zanzibar?

25 essential questions and answers to buy property in Zanzibar

READ MORE
Whatsapp Us