Mozambique Airports Report Record-Breaking Passenger Traffic

The check-in area terminal at Maputo airport

Mozambique's aviation sector is experiencing a significant upturn, marked by a substantial surge in international passenger numbers. According to the latest report from the Civil Aviation Authority of Mozambique, the country witnessed a remarkable 28% year-on-year increase in intercontinental passengers in 2023, reaching nearly 150,000. This robust growth is indicative of Mozambique's growing appeal as a tourist destination. The overall passenger count also saw a substantial rise of 20%, culminating in a total of 1.97 million passengers for the year.

This positive trend is further underscored by a 46% increase in regional passengers, surpassing 524,000, and an 11% growth in domestic air travel, reaching 1.27 million passengers. Leading the charge in passenger growth are Maputo's Joaquim Chissano International Airport, with a 22% increase to 1.05 million passengers, Nampula, experiencing a 13% surge to 199,366 passengers, and Beira, witnessing a 21% increase to 198,269 passengers.

This surge in Mozambique passenger traffic has naturally led to a corresponding increase in aircraft movements, with a 7% growth to 60,250. Notably, the aviation landscape in Mozambique remains robust, with eight out of nine international airlines that operated pre-COVID-19 continuing their services.

These airlines include LAM, Airlink, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, TAP, Qatar Airways, TAAG, and Turkish Airlines. The resurgence of international travel to Mozambique is a testament to the country's tourism potential and the ongoing efforts to develop its aviation infrastructure.