Port Elizabeth Airport: Size, Scale, And Significance

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ/FAPE), formerly known as Port Elizabeth International Airport, is located in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), South Africa. It is approximately 4 kilometres or a 10-minute drive from the city centre. The airport has a single terminal building, covering 8,700 square metres, with 13 aircraft parking bays and two asphalt-paved runways. It handles over 1 million passengers annually, with plans to expand to accommodate up to 2 million. Various facilities are available, including car rentals, shops, restaurants, and disabled access.

Proximity to the city centre

Port Elizabeth Airport, officially known as Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, is located in close proximity to the city of Port Elizabeth in South Africa. The airport is approximately 3.2 kilometres or 2 miles south of the city's central business district. It takes around 10 minutes to drive from the airport to the city centre, earning the airport the nickname of the "ten-minute airport".

The airport is easily accessible from the city centre via Route 102, which merges onto the M4/Settlers Highway. From there, travellers can take a right onto Walmer Boulevard (M9) and then a left down Third Avenue, which leads directly to the airport. Shuttle services to and from the airport are also available from Blunden Coach Tours.

For those travelling by car, there are several car rental companies represented at the airport, including Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Bidvest, Tempest, and Dollar (The Hertz Corporation). The airport offers a selection of parking areas, including reserved parking for disabled passengers.

In addition to car and shuttle services, passengers can also take a taxi to and from the airport. Metered taxis from various local companies are readily available outside the departures hall, and the fare to the city centre is typically around ZAR 150.

Port Elizabeth Airport is conveniently located near several amenities and attractions. The beachfront Radisson Blu Hotel, for example, is situated close to the airport and offers meeting and event spaces, as well as a business centre. The Paxton Hotel, another nearby accommodation option, is just a short walk from the beach and boasts 80 spacious guest rooms.

Terminal facilities

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, formerly known as Port Elizabeth Airport, is located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is situated approximately 4 kilometres or 2 miles south of the city's central business district. The airport is easily accessible, earning the nickname the "ten-minute airport" due to its proximity to the city centre and other major areas in Port Elizabeth.

The terminal facilities at Port Elizabeth Airport cater to both domestic and international travellers. The terminal building covers an area of 8,700 square metres (94,000 square feet) and underwent a modern upgrade in June 2004, enhancing its capacity to handle up to 2 million passengers annually. This expansion was driven by the growth of tourism and preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Upon arrival at the airport, passengers can find essential services and amenities. There is an information desk located in the arrival hall, where travellers can seek assistance. Luggage trolleys are conveniently placed in the arrival hall, near the baggage reclaim belts, as well as in the car park and at the entrance to the departure hall. For those seeking refreshments, there is a selection of restaurants, pubs, and cafes throughout the airport, including the Wimpy restaurant with a view of the apron. However, some travellers have noted that the food options are limited and overpriced.

The airport also provides a range of shopping options, including gift shops, snack shops, and a clothing/footwear store in the departure hall. Duty-free shopping is not available. For travellers' convenience, an ATM is located between the arrival and departure halls. Additionally, public telephones are accessible in the arrivals hall, departures hall, and sterile area, while Wi-Fi internet access is provided throughout the airport.

Port Elizabeth Airport caters to diverse traveller needs with facilities like a chapel and prayer rooms available upon request. Basic first aid equipment is also available on-site. For passengers with disabilities, the airport offers dedicated toilets, reserved parking, and lifts to the first floor, where the business-class lounge and restaurant are located.

Transport options

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, formerly known as Port Elizabeth Airport, is located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, approximately two miles south of the city's central business district. The airport is easily accessible by various transport options, including private transfers, shuttle services, local taxis, and car rental services.

Private Transfers and Shuttle Services

Several companies offer private and shuttle transfer services to and from the airport. HolidayTaxis.com, for instance, provides door-to-door private transfers to destinations such as Addo Elephant National Park, Gorah Game Reserve, and Riverbend. These services often include a 'Meet & Greet' at the airport, where your driver will be waiting for you in the arrival hall.

Local Taxis

Metered taxis are readily available outside the departures hall at Port Elizabeth Airport. Various local taxi companies are represented, and their contact information can be found on the airport's website. These taxis offer convenient transportation to and from the airport and various locations within the city.

Car Rental

For those who prefer to drive themselves, several car rental offices are located at the airport, including companies like Eurocar and Bidvest. This option provides travellers with the flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace.

Other Options

In addition to the above, the airport also offers short-term (up to eight hours) and long-term parking options, located directly in front of the terminal building. This convenience allows travellers to bring their vehicles to the airport and park for extended periods if needed.

Runway length

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, formerly known as Port Elizabeth International Airport, has two asphalt-paved runways. Runway 08/26 measures 1,980 by 46 metres (6,496 ft × 151 ft), while runway 17/35 measures 1,677 by 46 metres (5,502 ft × 151 ft). The airport resides at an elevation of 226 feet (69 m) above mean sea level.

The airport is located approximately two miles south of the city's central business district in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It was established in 1929 by Lieutenant Colonel Miller, who required an airfield to manage his postal service between the city and Cape Town. The airport was officially opened in 1936, featuring a single runway, one hangar, and a concrete apron. During World War II, the airfield was expanded to accommodate the 42 Air School of the Royal Air Force and the 6 Squadron South African Air Force.

In 1950, construction began on permanent terminal buildings, runways, and an air traffic control building. The airport has continued to undergo upgrades over the years, including a modern terminal upgrade completed in 2004, enabling the airport to handle up to 2 million passengers annually.

Port Elizabeth Airport operates both domestic and international flights. Its close proximity to key areas of the city has earned it the nickname the "ten-minute airport." The airport is easily accessible from the city centre via Route 102, which connects to the M4/Settlers Highway. From there, travellers can take Walmer Boulevard (M9) and then turn onto Third Avenue, which leads directly to the airport.

Historical highlights

Port Elizabeth Airport, now known as Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some historical highlights:

Establishment and Early Years:

• The airport was established in 1929 by Lieutenant Colonel Miller, who needed an airfield to operate a postal service between Port Elizabeth and Cape Town.
• In 1936, the airport was officially opened, featuring a single runway, one hangar, and a concrete apron.
• During World War II, the airfield was extended to accommodate the Royal Air Force and the South African Air Force.

Post-World War II Developments:

• In the 1950s, construction began on terminal buildings, runways, and an air traffic control building. The airport was officially opened to the public in 1955.
• In 1973, the apron was extended to accommodate larger aircraft, and a new departures terminal was inaugurated in 1980.

Recent History:

• In 2004, a modern terminal upgrade was completed, increasing the airport's capacity to handle up to 2 million passengers annually.
• In preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, there were plans to extend runway 08/26 to accommodate international flights, but this did not materialise.
• On February 23, 2021, the airport's name was officially changed to Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, honouring a South African freedom fighter.

Throughout its history, Port Elizabeth Airport has played a significant role in the region's aviation industry and has undergone numerous expansions and improvements to accommodate growing passenger numbers and cargo traffic. Today, it continues to serve as a vital gateway to the city of Port Elizabeth and the surrounding areas.

Frequently asked questions