A new milestone in Tanzania’s tourism sector was recorded on May 6, 2026, after the Mtemere Airstrip inside Nyerere National Park officially received its first aircraft carrying more than ten international tourists, marking the beginning of full operations at the facility.
The successful landing follows the completion of national and international aviation safety clearances, making the airstrip fully operational after its earlier inauguration on February 11, 2026.
The event was witnessed by Assistant Conservation Commissioner Ephraim Mwangomo, the Chief Park Warden of Nyerere National Park, who described the development as a major boost to tourism operations ahead of the peak season.
He said the airstrip has been designed to international standards, allowing aircraft to land throughout the year regardless of weather conditions.
“This development opens a new chapter for air transport in the park. It comes at the right time as we prepare for the high tourism season,” he said.
He added that the improved infrastructure will eliminate past challenges where heavy rains disrupted landings, reducing tourist numbers and park revenues during the rainy season.
Mwangomo expressed appreciation to President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for supporting the project, including funding for the airstrip and related tourism infrastructure such as cottages, picnic sites, equipment, and access roads.
The Mtemere Airstrip is among the few airstrips located within Tanzania’s national parks featuring a control tower.
It has a 1.8-kilometre runway, safety strip, stopway, and clearway, all built using a polymer-based surface designed to reduce water retention and environmental impact.
The first aircraft, operated by MyFly Aviation, was smoothly landed by pilot Abdull Hakeem Othman, who praised the airstrip’s quality and safety standards.
He said the runway offers exceptional smoothness, reduces aircraft vibration, and improves operational efficiency, making it one of the best he has used in protected areas.
“I have never landed on such a smooth airstrip in my career operating safari flights. It is safe, modern, and reduces maintenance stress on aircraft,” he said.
He encouraged other pilots to use the facility, noting that all safety procedures have been met and the airstrip now complies with international standards.
According to TANAPA’s Head of Aviation Security and Airport Services, Idrisa Washington, the airstrip meets all requirements set by the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
He said compliance with these standards was mandatory before operations could begin, confirming that Mtemere is now fully cleared for regular flight operations.
The opening of the airstrip is expected to improve access to Nyerere National Park, attract more tourists, increase investment opportunities, and significantly boost tourism revenue for Tanzania’s economy.
