Aweil Airport

Common Complaints

• Basic and Unpaved Runway: The airport features a packed dirt runway (approximately 2000m or 6600 ft), which is unpaved. This condition necessitates "confirmation of the airport's condition" before approach.
• Weather-Related Disruptions: Flights can be temporarily suspended due to bad weather, particularly strong winds raising dust, which significantly impacts air visibility and affects operations on the unpaved airstrip.
• Limited Facilities: There is no specific mention of modern terminal facilities, amenities, or cleanliness, suggesting a very basic or non-existent terminal infrastructure for passengers.
• Safety Concerns: Historical records indicate four accidents at the airstrip since 1973, including one civilian incident involving a Fokker 50 where the left main gear collapsed after landing, and another instance of loss of control due to burst nose gear tires.
• Poor Air Traffic Control (ATC) Provision (Country-wide): South Sudan's airspace, including areas relevant to Aweil, faces warnings regarding poor levels of ATC provision, service disruptions, and a lack of qualified personnel.
• Informal Ground Transportation: Transportation to and from the airport relies on taxis and boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) in Aweil town, with no information on formal parking facilities.

Aweil Airport appears to be a highly functional and essential airstrip for the region, particularly for humanitarian and governmental operations. However, travelers should anticipate very basic facilities, potential disruptions due to weather and runway conditions, and the need for flexibility when flying to or from this location.