Fua'amotu International Airport (TBU)
Nuku'alofa, TO 🇹🇴 Medium Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
NFTF
IATA
TBU
Elevation
126 ft
Region
TO-04
Local Time
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GPS Code: NFTF
Local Code: Not available
Location: -21.241199° N, -175.149994° E
Continent: Oceania
Type: Medium Airport
What Travelers Say
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Online Reviews Summary
Fua'amotu International Airport (TBU) in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, generally receives mixed but leaning positive reviews from recent travelers. While it is a small and basic airport, many appreciate its cleanliness and efficiency for its size, though some operational aspects can be cumbersome.
What Travelers Love
- Friendly Atmosphere: Many travelers highlight the friendly people at the airport.
- Cleanliness and Streamlined Process: The airport is often described as clean and the arrival/departure processes can be streamlined and easy.
- Air Conditioning: The waiting area is air-conditioned, providing comfort for travelers.
- Efficient Security and Customs (at times): Travelers have reported quick and easy security, customs, and check-in experiences.
- Scenic Views: The beautiful landscape surrounding the airport during takeoff and landing is often noted as a positive.
Common Complaints
- Limited Seating and Amenities: There is limited seating outside the terminal, and amenities inside are basic, including cafes with limited options and expensive gift shops.
- Cumbersome Departure Procedures: The departure process can be difficult due to requirements for online check-in validation and various forms to fill in.
- ATM Issues: The ATM on arrival has been reported to be faulty, though staff generally work to fix it.
- Customer Service and Rental Cars: Some travelers noted that officials could be nicer, and there are reports of hawkers trying to overcharge for rental cars, as car rental companies are not located directly at the airport.
- Slow Security at Times: Despite some quick experiences, security can be slow.
Overall, Fua'amotu International Airport serves its purpose as Tonga's main international gateway. Travelers should be prepared for a small, no-frills experience and consider pre-arranging transportation and being aware of potential minor inconveniences with amenities and departure procedures.
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Airport Routes
Fua'amotu International Airport (TBU) offers 6 flight routes operated by 4 airlines. Major carriers include Lulutai Airlines, Fiji Airways, Air New Zealand and others. Popular destinations from Nuku'alofa include Nadi Int'l, Eua, Lifuka Island (Salote Pilolevu), Vava'u Int'l (Lupepau'u) and Auckland.
Route Network Map
Top Routes (by observations)
Newly Discovered
Popular Flight Routes
| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Top Airlines
Operating at Fua'amotu International AirportAirlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Lulutai Airlines
TON
/ L8
|
3 | 75 | 3 | Feb 7, 2026 |
|
Fiji Airways
FJI
/ FJ
|
1 | 25 | 1 | Feb 7, 2026 |
Air New Zealand
ANZ
/ NZ
|
1 | 20 | 1 | Feb 7, 2026 |
Qantas
QFA
/ QF
|
1 | 6 | 1 | Feb 7, 2026 |
For Pilots
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
11/29 |
8795 ft | 147 ft | ASP | Active Lighted |
17/35 |
4951 ft | 195 ft | GRS | Active |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| AFIS | RDO | 322.6 MHz |
| AFIS | RDO | 884.6 MHz |
| APP | APP | 118.5 MHz |
| GND | GND | 121.9 MHz |
| TWR | TWR | 118.5 MHz |
Ground Transportation
Taxis
Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal. Fares to major destinations like the capital, Nuku'alofa, are generally fixed. It is advisable to confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey, which typically takes 30-40 minutes to the city center.
Rental Cars
Several car rental companies, including local agencies and international brands like Avis, have counters inside the airport's arrivals hall. Pre-booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season. A temporary Tongan visitor's driving license is required and can usually be obtained through the rental agency.
Public Transportation
There is no scheduled public bus service directly to or from Fua'amotu International Airport. The most common and reliable alternative is to pre-arrange an airport shuttle or transfer, which is offered by most hotels, guesthouses, and resorts for their guests.