Walvis Bay Airport in Namibia.
Walvis Bay Airport was one of the smallest airports that I have had the pleasure to visit. It is a peculiar airport to say the least. Walvis Bay Airport is situated 15 km east of the town, almost in the middle of nowhere. Not really, but that is what it felt like. Personally I think the reason why I felt like this, might be the fact that that this airport was once a South African Air Force station and base – AFB Rooikop. It closed in 1994.
The airport is currently under construction. That includes the Terminal Building. A regular visitor to Walvis Bay told me that this was an on-going project for some years now. The number of visitors have increased dramatically the last couple of years. An upgrade to the terminal building as well as the runway was imperative.
The length of the current runway was reduced to 1,675 m but once all the upgrades are done, the airport will be able to handle wide bodied air-crafts. For now the runway can accommodate aircrafts of the B737-200 series.
Another important upgrade will be the installation of a state of the art landing instrument. This instrument is useful for airports that are close to the coast with overcast weather conditions. This will make Walvis Bay one of only a few airports in Southern Africa with this type of technology.
Walvis Bay Airport will become Namibia’s second international airport.
Facilities at Walvis Bay Airport.
Facilities are basic but adequate. The airport has the following facilities:
- Gift Shop;
- Restaurant and Kiosk;
- Toilets.
Despite the on-going upgrades the Airport offers basic facilities to travellers. There are outside and inside seating where you can enjoy a beer or meal. Please note that there are no self check-in services available.
Airport Contact Information:
Phone: +264 (0) 64 271 102 or +264 (0) 64 200 164.
Email Address: walvisbay@airports.com.na
What an interesting airport, Nelieta! I am envious…you get to see all these places!
It was a very interesting airport indeed. Thank you for the visit Sonja!