Arusha Airport Goes 24/7 to Power Northern Tanzania’s Tourism Boom
Arusha Airport has begun operating around the clock following the installation and inspection of a modern runway lighting system, up from its previous 12-hour daytime limit. Regional Commissioner Amos Makalla confirmed the start of 24-hour operations on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, after inspecting the new lighting, declaring the airport safe and ready for use. The upgrade cost TZS11 billion (about €3.3 million) and included runway extensions, landing and taxiway lights, and terminal expansions. Airport manager Edgar Mwankuga said the facility had been handling growing passenger volumes, particularly in peak tourism seasons, and that airlines can now schedule flights beyond previous limits, improving domestic and regional connectivity.
The change is expected to give tourism a significant lift, with Arusha serving as a key gateway to the northern safari circuit, including Tarangire, Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Tourists often arrive in Arusha in the evening because of safari schedules, and night flights mean they can continue their journeys without waiting until the next day; ATCL expects its daily passengers from Arusha to rise from over 200 to roughly 300. The benefits should extend to hotels, tour operators, transport firms and restaurants, and the upgrade also prepares Arusha to host major international events such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union conference and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Source: The EastAfrican