Tanzania Nears Completion of East Africa’s Largest Airport Project

Msalato International Airport Set to Open in September 2026

Tanzania has announced that Msalato International Airport, currently under construction in the capital city of Dodoma, is expected to begin operations in September 2026. Once completed, it will become the largest airport by land area in East Africa.

The project is one of Tanzania’s most ambitious infrastructure developments and is designed to strengthen the country’s aviation sector while supporting the continued growth of Dodoma as the nation’s administrative capital.

Authorities estimate the total cost of the airport will exceed $330 million upon completion.

Major Infrastructure Project for Tanzania

Construction of Msalato International Airport began four years ago as part of Tanzania’s broader strategy to modernize transportation infrastructure and improve connectivity across the country.

The airport occupies approximately 4,500 hectares, making it larger than Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which covers around 4,000 hectares. Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere International Airport occupies an estimated 1,000 hectares.

Despite becoming the region’s largest airport by land size, Msalato is not expected to handle the highest passenger traffic in Tanzania. The facility is projected to serve about 1.5 million passengers annually, while Julius Nyerere International Airport will remain the country’s primary aviation hub with a capacity of approximately eight million passengers per year.

Construction Progress Reaches Advanced Stage

Tanzania’s Minister of Finance, Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, shared the latest progress after inspecting the construction site.

According to the minister, key infrastructure including the runway and aircraft parking areas has already been completed.

The first phase of the project has reached 86.73 percent completion. This phase includes critical airport infrastructure required for operations.

Meanwhile, the second phase, which includes the passenger terminal building, air traffic control tower, and fire and rescue facilities, is 75.1 percent complete.

Officials remain confident that the airport will meet its planned opening schedule.

Partnership Driving the Project

The airport project is being implemented through a partnership involving the Government of Tanzania, the African Development Bank and the Africa Growing Together Fund.

Launched in 2022, the initiative aims to provide Dodoma with a modern aviation facility capable of supporting growing government activities, business investments and population growth.

“Since Dodoma is the nation’s capital, it was necessary for it to have a modern airport capable of accommodating the growing demands arising from economic activities, government functions and social development,” said Ambassador Omar.

Boosting Connectivity and Economic Growth

Once operational, Msalato International Airport is expected to improve domestic and international connectivity for Dodoma.

Government officials believe the airport will attract new investment opportunities, strengthen trade and tourism, and enhance Tanzania’s position within East Africa’s aviation industry.

The project also supports Tanzania’s long-term vision of transforming Dodoma into a fully developed administrative and economic center backed by modern infrastructure.

As construction enters its final stages, Msalato International Airport is expected to become a key gateway for the country’s capital and a significant addition to East Africa’s growing aviation network.