Ruth Haines
The main international airport of Angola, Luanda Airport (LAD) is located in the southern part of the country's capital, Luanda. The airport offers intercontinental flights to Africa, Europe, and South America. While the airport is open 24 hours, its terminal is outdated and mismanaged, with travellers complaining of unclear security procedures, rude staff, crowds, dirty bathrooms, and little seating. However, there are airport lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, and nearby hotels. There is also a hotel on airport grounds, next to the domestic terminal, called Fly Hotel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Code | LAD |
| Location | Luanda Province, Angola |
| Elevation | 243 feet (74 m) above sea level |
| Runways | 2 |
| Services | Airport lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, nearby hotels, currency exchange, duty-free shopping, luggage wrapping, medical services, car parking, airport taxis, airport public transport, etc. |
| Facilities | Bars & restaurants, ATMs, banks, airport car rental, shuttles & private transfers, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
- Services and facilities: airport lounges, WiFi, charging points, lockers, 24-hour food, and more
- Nearby accommodation: Fly Hotel is located on airport grounds, next to the domestic terminal
- Transport: airport shuttles, car rental, taxis, and public transport are available
- History: Construction began in 1951 and was inaugurated in 1954 by the Portuguese President
- Safety: There are complaints of unclear security procedures and rude staff who may steal or seek bribes
Services and facilities: airport lounges, WiFi, charging points, lockers, 24-hour food, and more
Serving Angola's capital, Luanda, the Luanda International Airport (LAD) offers a range of services and facilities to travellers. While the airport's terminal is said to be outdated and mismanaged, it still provides essential amenities to make your travel experience more comfortable. Here's what you can expect in terms of services and facilities:
Airport Lounges
The airport has lounges accessible to travellers, including the Pall Lounge in the International Terminal, Airside, on the first floor. Some lounges can be accessed by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass, or through a lounge membership program. First and Business Class travellers may have exclusive access to certain lounges.
WiFi and Charging Points
WiFi is available at the airport, specifically inside the lounge. There is limited information on WiFi availability elsewhere in the terminal. For charging your electronic devices, there are a few power plugs in one seating area (airside) where you can charge your phone or other devices.
Lockers and Luggage Services
The airport provides luggage-related services, including luggage scales and luggage wrapping. Lockers are also available for storing your belongings securely.
24-Hour Food Options
Travellers can access food and beverages around the clock at Luanda Airport. A restaurant and bar are available on-site, ensuring you can refuel at any time of day or night.
Additional Amenities and Services
Luanda International Airport offers other essential services, including ATMs, banks, currency exchange, duty-free shopping, a post office, and a medical centre. There are also hotels located near the airport, such as the Fly Hotel, for those seeking accommodation during layovers or extended stays.
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Nearby accommodation: Fly Hotel is located on airport grounds, next to the domestic terminal
If you're looking for a place to stay near Luanda Airport, the Fly Hotel is located on the airport grounds, next to the domestic terminal—just a 3-minute walk away if you have family and luggage in tow. Rated 3 out of 5 stars on Tripadvisor, the Fly Hotel is an excellent choice for travellers, offering many helpful amenities to enhance your stay.
The rooms are typically designed for two people, but the hotel has accommodated larger groups and families. They also offer late checkouts if you have a late departure from the airport. The hotel will also arrange a taxi for you if you need one.
Each room comes equipped with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a refrigerator, and guests can enjoy free WiFi. There is also a restaurant and bar on-site.
While the Fly Hotel is not located near great shopping, beaches, or other fun hotspots, it is a great option if you're looking for convenience and comfort during a layover in Luanda.
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Transport: airport shuttles, car rental, taxis, and public transport are available
There are several transport options available at Luanda Airport. If you are looking for a convenient option, airport shuttles and private transfers are available. These can be booked in advance or upon arrival at the airport. Details of shuttle services can be found on the airport's website.
For those who prefer more independence, car rental services are also available at the airport. You can find various car rental companies operating at the airport, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.
If you prefer to take a taxi, authorised airport taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area. These taxis are safe and reliable, providing a comfortable ride to your destination.
Public transport is also an option for those looking for a more economical choice. Luanda Airport is served by buses, which can take you to various destinations in the city. However, it is important to note that public transport options may be limited, and specific information about bus routes and schedules is not readily available. It is recommended to check the latest information on the airport's website or seek advice from the information desk upon arrival.
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History: Construction began in 1951 and was inaugurated in 1954 by the Portuguese President
The history of Luanda Airport, also known as Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport, dates back to the early 1950s. Construction of the airport began in 1951 to serve the capital of the former Portuguese Overseas Province of Angola. During this time, Angola was a Portuguese colony, and the airport was intended to serve as a vital transportation hub for the region.
The airport was completed in 1954, and on inauguration that year, it was named after the Portuguese President Craveiro Lopes—'Aeroporto Presidente Craveiro Lopes' (President Craveiro Lopes Airport). This honour was bestowed upon the airport by President Craveiro Lopes himself, who officially opened the airport.
Luanda Airport has played a significant role in the country's history and has witnessed several notable incidents. On 26 March 1979, a cargo plane operated by Interflug overshot the runway during take-off due to engine failure, resulting in a tragic loss of life. In more recent years, the airport has experienced a high volume of passenger traffic, serving approximately 5.6 million passengers in 2018.
However, the older Luanda Airport is set to be replaced by the new Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport, located southeast of the capital. The new airport project commenced in 2004, with construction beginning in 2006, and it officially opened in November 2023. This modern facility is expected to significantly increase trade within Africa, particularly for air cargo operations.
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Safety: There are complaints of unclear security procedures and rude staff who may steal or seek bribes
Safety is a concern at Luanda Airport, with travellers complaining about unclear security procedures and rude staff who may steal or seek bribes. The airport's terminal is outdated and mismanaged, leading to crowds and a lack of seating. To ensure your safety and minimize interaction with staff, it is advisable to carry only the essentials and limit the amount of cash you bring.
While the airport is open 24 hours, there are no dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas, or rest zones. If you have a long layover, consider purchasing a lounge pass or accessing a lounge through a membership program. These lounges offer more comfort and better Wi-Fi, which is spotty in the general terminal area.
If you need to spend the night, there is a hotel located on airport grounds, next to the domestic terminal. However, there is no airport shuttle service provided. Alternatively, you can find other accommodation options in Luanda by searching on websites like Tripadvisor.
To stay connected, take note that there are a couple of electrical plugs airside in one seating area where you can charge your devices. Additionally, Wi-Fi is available inside the lounge, but its availability elsewhere in the terminal is uncertain.
Lastly, be prepared for potential issues with baggage handling. While some travellers have reported that their baggage was safe, others have complained about unclear security procedures and rude staff who may steal. Keep your baggage locked and secured, and consider bringing a luggage scale to avoid excess baggage fees.
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Frequently asked questions
The airport has lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, a restaurant and bar, currency exchange, duty-free shopping, luggage wrapping, a medical centre, airport car parking, airport taxis, airport shuttles, and more.
There are no dedicated sleeping, quiet, or rest areas at Luanda Airport. However, there is a hotel on the airport grounds called Fly Hotel, located next to the domestic terminal.
Travellers have complained about unclear security procedures and rude staff who may steal or seek bribes.
Luanda Airport is located in the southern part of Luanda, the capital of Angola. There are no details about nearby attractions, but the city will have plenty to offer in the way of sights and activities.
