Mafia Airport (MFA)

Mafia Airport (IATA: MFA, ICAO: HTMA) is the primary air gateway to Mafia Island, a renowned destination for marine life enthusiasts in Tanzania's Pwani Region. Situated just outside the main town of Kilindoni, the airport plays a crucial role in the island's tourism-based economy, providing essential access for visitors heading to the lodges and world-class dive sites within the Mafia Island Marine Park. Its function is to connect this relatively remote island with Tanzania’s mainland and other key tourist hubs, making it a vital piece of the country's southern safari circuit infrastructure.

The airport's development is directly tied to the growth of tourism on the island. While its exact opening date is not widely documented, it has long served as the main entry point for international visitors and residents traveling by air. The facility is modest in scale, designed to handle the specific operational needs of the regional carriers that service the island. It operates exclusively as a domestic airport, with no scheduled international flights. Operations are dominated by regional airlines such as Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, and Tropical Air, which utilize small propeller aircraft like the Cessna Caravan and de Havilland Twin Otter. These carriers provide scheduled and charter services, primarily connecting Mafia Island with Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), Zanzibar (ZNZ), and various airstrips in national parks like Nyerere (formerly Selous).

The airport consists of a single, small terminal building and one runway. The facilities for passengers are basic but functional, reflecting the airport's size and traffic volume. Inside the terminal, travelers will find check-in counters for the various airlines, a simple departures waiting area, and restroom facilities. There are no executive lounges, large-scale restaurants, or duty-free shops. Occasionally, a small kiosk may offer light snacks and beverages, but visitors should not expect extensive retail or dining options.

For travelers, Mafia Airport is straightforward to navigate. It is located approximately two kilometers from the center of Kilindoni. Upon arrival, transportation is typically arranged in advance through hotels and lodges, which send vehicles to meet their guests. Alternatively, local taxis and three-wheeled "bajajis" are available outside the terminal for the short journey into town or to nearby accommodations. When departing, arriving 60 to 90 minutes before the scheduled flight is generally sufficient. It is crucial for passengers to strictly adhere to the baggage weight limits specified by their airline, as the small aircraft used on these routes have limited capacity and are very strict about luggage allowances.