MARA/SHINYANGA: THE government has moved closer to restoring regular air services in Shinyanga and Musoma after successful test flights at the two airports, with operations expected to begin as authorities push to unlock new economic opportunities through improved connectivity.
Transport Minister Prof. Makame Mbarawa said Shinyanga Airport will start official operations by September 1 this year, directing agencies involved in the project to complete the remaining works and prepare the facility for use.
The announcement came after a successful landing and take-off test at the airport on Saturday, an exercise aimed at assessing the readiness of the rehabilitated facility before commercial flights begin.
Prof. Mbarawa said the Shinyanga investment must translate into economic benefits by connecting the region with other parts of the country and creating better opportunities for business, trade and investment.
He directed the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) to complete the remaining passenger terminal works, while instructing the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) to ensure the airport is properly maintained and operated in line with aviation standards.
In neighbouring Mara Region, the government has also completed major improvements at Musoma Airport, including construction of a 1,600 metre asphalt runway and other supporting infrastructure aimed at accommodating increased air traffic.
The project, which cost more than Sh35bn, also involved compensation of over Sh13bn to residents affected by the expansion, reflecting the scale of investment being made to modernise air transport infrastructure.
TAA Director General Abdul Mombokaleo said the upgraded Musoma Airport can now handle larger aircraft carrying up to 80 passengers, compared with the previous capacity of 42 passengers.
The improved capacity has opened the way for ATCL to introduce passenger flights to Musoma from July 2026, according to the airline’s Managing Director Peter Ulanga, who said the airport will become the carrier’s 17th domestic hub.
The return of regular flights is expected to strengthen key economic sectors in Mara, including tourism, fishing and trade, while improving access to markets and investment opportunities within Tanzania and neighbouring countries.
For Shinyanga, the airport upgrade is part of a broader effort to improve transport links and support economic activities in the region. TAA said the facility has reached 3C operational classification following rehabilitation works, indicating improved capacity and compliance with aviation requirements.
TAA Board Chairman Juma Fimbo urged the public to protect transport infrastructure, saying such facilities are essential for economic development and improved movement of people and goods.
The Shinyanga Airport rehabilitation project began in April 2023 at a cost of Sh44.8bn and is expected to strengthen links between the region and other parts of the country once fully operational.