Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ)

Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), ZA 🇿🇦 Large International Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

FAPE

IATA

PLZ

Elevation

226 ft

Region

ZA-EC

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: FAPE

Local Code: Not available

Location: -33.984901° N, 25.6173° E

Continent: Africa

Type: Large International Airport

Keywords: H F Verwoerd Airport Port Elizabeth International Airport

Arrivals
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Departures
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What Travelers Say

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Online Reviews Summary

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha generally receives positive reviews, with many travelers appreciating its efficiency and convenient size. While frequently lauded for its quick processes and cleanliness, some recurrent issues detract from an otherwise pleasant experience. Overall sentiment leans towards satisfaction for domestic travel, though some facilities could benefit from updates.

What Travelers Love
  • Cleanliness and Efficiency: The airport is often described as clean and tidy, offering a welcoming environment. Travelers frequently praise its efficient processes for getting in and out.
  • Quick Security: Security procedures are typically quick and efficient, allowing travelers to navigate the terminal with ease and avoid long queues.
  • Convenient Location and Accessibility: Known as the "ten-minute airport," it's located very close to the city center and beachfront, making transport connections straightforward. Car hire is also noted as a breeze to navigate.
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the presence of friendly and accommodating staff, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Common Complaints
  • Limited Food and Drink Options: A frequently mentioned drawback is the limited variety of food and drink options available, particularly beyond security.
  • Parking Issues: Travelers have reported problems with parking payment machines not working properly and parking areas being tight to navigate.
  • Seating and Facility Maintenance: There are complaints about limited seating in the departure lounge and occasional maintenance issues with facilities. Some reviews also mention outdated facilities and unhelpful staff, indicating a mixed experience.

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport offers a largely efficient and convenient travel experience for those flying to and from Gqeberha, particularly for domestic routes, benefiting from its size and quick processing times. However, travelers should be aware of the limited dining choices and potential minor inconveniences with parking.

Last updated: 57 days ago

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AI-Generated: Compiled from publicly available reviews. May not be current or accurate.

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Airport Routes

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) offers 10 flight routes operated by 5 airlines. Major carriers include Safair, South African Airlink, South African Airways and others. Popular destinations from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) include OR Tambo Int'l, Cape Town Int'l, King Shaka Int'l and Lanseria.

Route Network Map

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Top Routes (by observations)

Newly Discovered

Popular Flight Routes

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Destination IATA City Aircraft Type Airline Details Route Map
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Top Airlines

Operating at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport

Airlines by Flight Activity

Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
Safair
SFR / FA
4 148 4 Jan 30, 2026
3 86 3 Jan 30, 2026
1 55 1 Jan 30, 2026
CemAir
KEM / 5Z
1 17 1 Jan 30, 2026
1 2 1 Dec 11, 2025
Showing top 5 airlines by flight activity. Data includes observed departures and route networks from this airport.

For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
08/26 7087 ft 151 ft ASP Active Lighted
17/35 5502 ft 151 ft ASP Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
APP APP 120.4 MHz
ATIS ATIS 112.9 MHz
CLNC Clearance Delivery 122.1 MHz
GTE APRON 122.65 MHz
TWR TWR 118.1 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency
PEV Port Elizabeth VOR-DME 112900 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025

Taxis

Metered taxis are available directly outside the terminal building. Additionally, popular ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt operate from the airport, providing convenient pick-up and drop-off services.

Rental Cars

Several major car rental agencies have service desks located within the arrivals hall of the terminal. Companies include Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, Tempest Car Hire, and Sixt. Pre-booking your vehicle online is highly recommended for better rates and guaranteed availability.

Public Transportation

There are no direct public bus or train services connecting to the airport. The primary modes of transport for travelers are taxis, ride-hailing services, or rental cars. Some hotels and private shuttle companies may offer pre-arranged transfer services.

AI-Generated Content: This ground transportation information was compiled using AI from publicly available sources. Prices, schedules, and availability may change; please verify with official airport or transportation provider websites before traveling.

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Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.