About Us
Discover our journey, mission, and commitment to connecting Zanzibar to the world
Our Background — Who we are?
Zanzibar Airports Authority was established under Act No. 8 of 2011 and its acronym as "ZAA" government Agency. Major Airports operated by Zanzibar Airports Authority are Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA) and Pemba Airport. It is the main airport in the Zanzibar Archipelago located on Unguja Island. It is about 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) south of Zanzibar City, the capital of Zanzibar, and has flights to East Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
It was previously known as Kisauni Airport and Zanzibar International Airport. It was renamed in 2010 in honour of Abeid Amani Karume, the island's first president. South approach and departures are over the water. The Zanzibar VOR-DME (Ident: ZV) is located 0.4 nautical miles (741 m) off the south end of the runway. The Zanzibar non-directional beacon (Ident: ZZ) is located on the field.
Corporate Profile
Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA) is the national statutory body established by the Airport Authority Act no. 8 of 2011 with overall responsibility for Government Airports Operation. Currently it operates two airports; Abeid Amani Karume International Airport and Pemba Airport. The Authority is now in its progressive years of operations since it was launched as an autonomous body on 26th August 2011.
Our Mission
To provide safe, secure, and efficient airport services that facilitate the growth of tourism and commerce in Zanzibar while delivering exceptional experiences to all our stakeholders.
Our Vision
To be the leading airport authority in East Africa, recognized for operational excellence, innovative services, and sustainable practices that contribute to Zanzibar's economic development.
Our Core Values
Safety First
Ensuring the highest safety standards in all operations
Customer Focus
Putting passengers at the heart of everything we do
Excellence
Striving for excellence in service delivery
Efficiency
Optimizing operations for seamless travel experiences
Our History
Zanzibar Airport officially opened for commercial operations
Airport renamed following the Zanzibar Revolution
Major terminal expansion completed
Zanzibar Airports Authority established by Act No. 8
New international terminal inaugurated
ASQ Award for Best Customer Experience
Ranked 2nd Best Island Destination worldwide
ZAA at a Glance
2M+
Annual Passengers
15+
Airlines
30+
Destinations
500+
Employees