The recently inaugurated António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN), located 40 kilometers from Luanda, is set to expand its operations, starting with domestic flights this Sunday. TAAG Angola Airlines will commence service with four daily flights to Cabinda from the new facility, marking an initial phase of the airport’s gradual operational transition. Full international flight transfers to AIAAN are expected by 31 March next year.
António Pombal, General Director of ATO, the airport’s temporary operator, addressed concerns over the pace of the transition, dismissing claims that international airlines are hesitant to move operations to the new airport. He emphasized that the move is intentional and systematic, noting, “What we have is a process of transferring the operations we are carrying out, and this requires identifying the risks to be mitigated, the impacts to be taken into account, certification conditions, and the quality of service we are going to provide to passengers.”
To facilitate the transition, AIAAN is progressively rolling out essential services to ensure optimal operations. A catering area will be ready in time for domestic flights, and a hotel with 350 rooms is under construction to accommodate growing passenger needs. Demand from service providers has already exceeded available space, with ATO assessing proposals to determine which meet operational standards and can activate services at the airport.
António Pombal highlighted that service quality remains a top priority, with all service providers at AIAAN subject to regular evaluations to maintain high standards. Providers not meeting quality benchmarks will be required to take corrective actions.
The gradual transfer strategy is expected to support the successful launch of AIAAN, with ATO working to finalize the necessary infrastructure, service, and mobility arrangements for both domestic and international passengers.
