Where is znz airport

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Last updated: April 17, 2026

Quick Answer: Zanzibar International Airport, with IATA code ZNZ, is located on Unguja Island in Zanzibar, Tanzania, approximately 4 kilometers south of Zanzibar City. It serves as the main gateway to the Zanzibar Archipelago and handles over 500,000 passengers annually.

Key Facts

Zanzibar International Airport has the IATA code ZNZ and ICAO code HTZA.
The airport is located 4 km south of Zanzibar City on Unguja Island.
It officially opened in 1979 and underwent a major renovation in 2004.
Over 500,000 international and domestic passengers pass through ZNZ yearly.
The airport is operated by the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA).

Overview

Zanzibar International Airport (IATA: ZNZ) is the primary aviation gateway to the semi-autonomous Zanzibar Archipelago, part of Tanzania. Situated on the island of Unguja, it lies just 4 kilometers south of Zanzibar City, the capital, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.

The airport plays a crucial role in supporting Zanzibar’s tourism-driven economy, connecting the island to major African and international destinations. As a key transport hub, ZNZ handles a mix of scheduled airlines, charter flights, and seasonal services from Europe and the Middle East.

Location: Zanzibar International Airport is located on the southeast coast of Unguja Island, near the village of Kisauni, approximately a 10-minute drive from Stone Town.
Passenger volume: The airport serves over 500,000 passengers annually, with traffic peaking during the European winter and summer holiday seasons.
Runway: It features a single asphalt runway, 07/25, measuring 2,500 meters long, capable of accommodating mid-sized aircraft like the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320.
History: Opened in 1979, the airport underwent a $100 million upgrade in 2004, funded by the Tanzanian government and international donors, to expand the terminal and improve safety systems.
Operator: The airport is managed by the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA), a government agency responsible for civil aviation infrastructure across the country.

How It Works

Zanzibar International Airport operates as a civilian international airport with customs and immigration facilities for international arrivals. It supports both domestic flights within Tanzania and international connections, primarily from Nairobi, Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, and seasonal European cities.

International Flights: Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines offer direct connections to ZNZ, linking Zanzibar to global air networks.
Domestic Connectivity:Air Tanzania and Precision Air operate regular flights between ZNZ and Dar es Salaam, with 10–15 daily flights during peak season.
Terminal Facilities: The terminal has two levels: arrivals on the ground floor and departures upstairs, with duty-free shops, cafes, and a VIP lounge.
Customs and Immigration: As an international airport, ZNZ processes all incoming passengers through passport control and baggage screening before entry into Tanzania.
Security: Airport security is managed by the Tanzanian police and aviation authority, with screening conducted using X-ray machines and metal detectors.
Ground Transport: Taxis, hotel shuttles, and car rental services are available outside the terminal, providing quick access to resorts in the north and east of the island.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how Zanzibar International Airport compares to other regional airports in East Africa:

Airport	Location	Passengers (Annual)	Runway Length	Key Airlines
Zanzibar (ZNZ)	Unguja Island, Tanzania	500,000+	2,500 m	Qatar Airways, Emirates, Air Tanzania
Kilimanjaro (JRO)	Arusha, Tanzania	650,000	3,600 m	Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, Turkish
Entebbe (EBB)	Kampala, Uganda	1.5 million	3,200 m	Uganda Airlines, Kenya Airways
Julius Nyerere (DAR)	Dar es Salaam, Tanzania	2.1 million	3,500 m	Air Tanzania, Ethiopian, Qatar
Victoria (SEZ)	Mahe Island, Seychelles	600,000	2,400 m	Emirates, Turkish, Air Seychelles

While ZNZ handles fewer passengers than larger regional hubs like Entebbe or Dar es Salaam, its strategic location and tourism focus make it vital for East African island travel. Its runway length and facilities are comparable to other island destinations like Seychelles, though with less frequent long-haul service.

Why It Matters

Zanzibar International Airport is more than just an entry point—it’s a cornerstone of the island’s economy and cultural exchange. With tourism contributing over 30% of Zanzibar’s GDP, reliable air access is essential for sustaining jobs and international investment.

Tourism Support: Over 80% of tourists to Zanzibar arrive via ZNZ, primarily visiting for beaches, historical sites like Stone Town, and cultural festivals.
Economic Impact: The airport directly employs over 300 people and supports thousands more in hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.
Medical Access: ZNZ enables emergency medical evacuations and the transport of medical supplies to and from the mainland.
Trade and Cargo: Limited cargo operations support the import of goods and export of local products like spices and seafood.
Regional Connectivity: ZNZ strengthens ties between Tanzania and neighboring countries through direct flights and transit options.
Future Expansion: Plans for a new terminal by 2027 aim to double capacity and improve passenger experience amid rising demand.

As global travel rebounds, Zanzibar International Airport remains a critical asset for sustainable development and regional integration in East Africa.