Longwood, SH 🇸🇭 Small Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
FHSH
IATA
HLE
Elevation
1017 ft
Region
SH-SH
Local Time
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Loading...GPS Code: FHSH
Local Code: Not available
Location: -15.957725° N, -5.645943° E
Continent: Africa
Type: Small Airport
Saint Helena Airport (IATA: HLE, ICAO: FHSH) is the sole airport serving the remote British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, providing the island's only scheduled air link to the outside world. Located on Prosperous Bay Plain in the eastern Longwood district, it has fundamentally transformed access to one of the world's most isolated inhabited islands. The airport is situated approximately 14 kilometers (9 miles) from the capital, Jamestown, a journey that takes around 30 minutes by vehicle along a modern, winding road. Travelers typically reach the airport via pre-booked taxis, shuttle services, or rental cars, as on-demand transport is not readily available upon arrival.
The airport represents a significant milestone in the island's history. Before its construction, St Helena was accessible only by a multi-day sea voyage. Funded by the UK government, the project was a major engineering feat. The planned 2016 opening was delayed due to challenges with severe wind shear on the runway approach. After new operational procedures and pilot training were developed to manage the conditions, the airport officially opened for scheduled commercial service on October 14, 2017, drastically reducing travel time and boosting opportunities for tourism and resident mobility.
Operations at Saint Helena Airport are focused on a small number of international flights. The primary commercial carrier is Airlink, which operates a weekly service connecting the island with Johannesburg, South Africa, typically including a refueling stop in Walvis Bay, Namibia. A monthly service also connects St Helena with Ascension Island. The airport also facilitates crucial medical evacuation flights and accommodates private aircraft. The facility consists of a single, modern terminal building with essential amenities. Inside, travelers will find check-in counters, a security screening area, a departure lounge, and an arrivals hall. A small café offers light meals and refreshments, and a gift shop provides souvenirs.
For those traveling through HLE, practical planning is essential. It is highly recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to departure for check-in. All ground transportation to and from the airport should be arranged in advance to ensure availability. Travelers connecting via Johannesburg should allow for generous connection times, as the flight's infrequency means a missed connection can result in a significant delay. While robust procedures are in place to manage local weather, passengers should be aware that strong winds can occasionally cause flight schedule changes or delays.
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Travelers to Saint Helena Airport (HLE) generally express a positive sentiment, often highlighting the island's unique and friendly atmosphere as a significant draw. The opening of the airport has been a life-changing development for residents, providing crucial access to medical care and connecting the remote island to the wider world. While the journey can present unique challenges, visitors frequently describe it as a worthwhile and memorable experience.
Despite the logistical challenges and the potential for weather-related disruptions, Saint Helena Airport has transformed accessibility to this remote island. Recent efforts to streamline customs and immigration processes aim to further enhance the traveler experience, though factors like flight costs and weather remain key considerations for visitors planning a trip.
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| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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South African Airlink
LNK
/ 4Z
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1 | 6 | 1 | Jan 24, 2026 |
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
01/19 |
6398 ft | 148 ft | ASP | Active Lighted |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| APP | - | 119.1 MHz |
| TWR | - | 118.2 MHz |
Taxis are available to meet all flight arrivals and for departures, but they must be pre-booked. It is essential to arrange your taxi with one of the island's local operators well in advance of your travel to ensure availability.
Several local companies offer car rentals, which can be collected and returned at the airport. Pre-booking is mandatory and should be done directly with the rental company before you arrive. Driving is on the left, and island roads are often narrow and winding.
A dedicated airport shuttle service operates on flight days, providing transport between the airport and various locations, including Jamestown. This service requires advance booking to secure a seat. There is no regular, scheduled public bus route that services the airport terminal.
Public Transportation