Pretoria's Airport: Where To Fly When Visiting South Africa's Capital

Wonderboom Airport, located 15 km north of Pretoria, South Africa, is the closest airport to the city. It was opened in 1937 and was built on the farm Wonderboom. The airport has been used for military training and civilian aircraft. Other nearby airports include Lanseria (HLA) Airport, 21 miles from Pretoria, and Johannesburg (JNB) Airport, 27.3 miles from Pretoria.

Wonderboom Airport: 15km north of Pretoria

Wonderboom Airport is located 15km north of Pretoria, South Africa. It was opened in 1937 and was built on the farm Wonderboom. The airport was initially a civilian airstrip for light aircraft before being used for military training during the Second World War. It returned to civilian control in 1945 and remains a facility for light aircraft to this day.

The airport has undergone several upgrades and expansions over the years. In 1965, a new terminal building and hangars were constructed, and the runways were extended. This enabled the airport to receive its first Boeing 737 in 1982. Further upgrades were made to the runways in 1993, and in 2007, plans were proposed for scheduled passenger services from the airport.

Wonderboom Airport offers a range of facilities for travellers, including shops, restaurants, and a business-class lounge for business-class customers and selected Voyager members. The airport also caters to smaller aircraft, with facilities such as helicopter service centres, a skydiving club, and a pilot shop.

The airport is served by various transport options, including shuttle services, metered taxis, car hire, and Uber. A 3-star guest house is located a 15-minute drive from the airport, offering amenities such as laundry services, secure parking, and Wi-Fi. Wonderboom Airport provides a convenient alternative for residents of Pretoria who prefer not to commute to the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

Lanseria Airport: 21 miles from Pretoria

Lanseria Airport is the closest airport to Pretoria, South Africa, situated just 21 miles from the city. The airport is located 63 km from the centre of Pretoria and is accessible by car, train, taxi, bus, or shuttle.

Lanseria Airport (IATA: HLA, ICAO: FALA) serves both domestic and international flights, offering travellers a convenient gateway to Pretoria and the surrounding region. The airport is known for its efficient operations and modern facilities, ensuring a seamless travel experience for passengers.

When arriving at or departing from Lanseria Airport, passengers can expect a range of amenities and services. The airport features comfortable waiting areas, with ample seating and a pleasant atmosphere. There are also dining options available, including restaurants and cafes, allowing travellers to enjoy a meal or a quick bite during their journey.

In addition to its passenger facilities, Lanseria Airport is well-equipped to handle various aircraft. The airport has two runways, accommodating different aircraft sizes and providing efficient air traffic management. The runways are equipped with advanced lighting systems, ensuring safe operations during all weather conditions and times of the day.

For travellers seeking accommodation near Lanseria Airport, there are several options available. Nearby hotels and guest houses offer convenient access to the airport, providing comfortable stays for those with early departures or late arrivals. These accommodations often include amenities such as free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and secure parking, ensuring a pleasant and convenient experience for guests.

OR Tambo International Airport: 56km from Pretoria

OR Tambo International Airport is the closest airport to Pretoria offering both international and domestic flights. Located in Johannesburg, it is approximately 56km from the centre of Pretoria. The airport can be reached from Pretoria in around 31 minutes by car.

Wonderboom Airport is another option, located only 15km north of Pretoria. However, this airport caters to smaller aircraft, offering facilities for helicopters, skydiving, and light aircraft.

Lanseria International Airport is another major airport, located 63km from Pretoria and offering domestic flights.

It is worth noting that around 25-30% of passengers using OR Tambo International Airport are Pretoria residents, so this may be the most convenient option for those travelling to or from Pretoria, despite the distance.

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport: 348km from Pretoria

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is located 348km from Pretoria, South Africa. The airport is situated approximately 6.9 miles (11km) southeast of White River and is about 10.5 miles (17km) northeast of Nelspruit. It is the closest airport to Kruger National Park, serving the southern part of the park.

The airport offers a convenient gateway to the Kruger National Park, with car rental services available for those looking to explore the park independently. It is also possible to arrange a private charter flight into any Kruger Park Lodge airstrip, although these flights must be booked in conjunction with your lodge reservation.

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is a considerable distance from Pretoria, with an estimated flight time of 21 minutes under average conditions. However, Wonderboom Airport, located in the northern suburbs of Pretoria, also provides access to the park and may be a more convenient option for those based in the city.

Wonderboom Airport is located approximately 291km from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and offers a range of facilities for light aircraft. The airport has a long history, initially serving as a civilian airstrip before being used for military training during World War II. It returned to civilian control in 1945 and has since undergone several upgrades and expansions.

Wonderboom Airport's shops and facilities

Wonderboom Airport, located in the northern suburbs of Pretoria, South Africa, offers a range of shops and facilities for travellers. The airport, built on the farm Wonderboom approximately 15 km north of Pretoria, was opened in 1937 and has a rich history, initially serving as a civilian airstrip for light aircraft and later being used for military training during World War II.

Today, Wonderboom Airport caters to a limited number of passenger flights, primarily servicing smaller aircraft. The airport features a domestic departures terminal with the Airlink Grey Sunbird Lounge, which is accessible to business-class customers and selected Voyager members. While the airport focuses on smaller aircraft, it has undergone upgrades and renovations over the years, including the addition of helicopter service centres, a skydiving club, and a pilot shop for car rentals.

In terms of dining options, travellers can enjoy the hospitality of restaurants located inside and around the airport. Additionally, there are various accommodation choices near the airport, including guest houses and hotels that offer amenities such as free breakfast, Wi-Fi, secure parking, and laundry services. These accommodations are situated in tranquil neighbourhoods, providing a comfortable stay for both business and leisure travellers.

Although Wonderboom Airport does not have foreign exchange facilities, travellers can access bureau de change services in the nearby city centre of Pretoria. The airport's parking facility has been upgraded, offering reasonable payment plans to meet travellers' parking requirements. Shuttle services, metered taxis, car hire, and Uber options are also available for convenient transportation to and from the airport.

Wonderboom Airport also serves as a venue for events, having hosted the South African Civil Aviation Authority's (SACAA) 25th Anniversary Celebration airshow in 2024, attracting a large number of aviation enthusiasts and families.

Frequently asked questions