Airport Developments Limited (ADL) has highlighted infrastructure gaps at Bakili Muluzi International Airport (BMIA) as factors limiting its capacity and compliance with international standards despite a surge in passenger traffic.
During a visit to the airport in Chileka, Blantyre by Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango on Monday, ADL officials outlined several challenges, including a narrow runway, limited terminal capacity and security risks linked to a vandalised perimeter fence.
In his brief, ADL engineering manager Sunganani Dzinkambani said the airport’s main runway, measuring 2.3 kilometres in length and 30 metres in width, accommodates narrow bodied aircraft but falls short of meeting international standard of 45 metres in width.
runway. | Nation
He said that the terminal building, currently around 4 000 square metres, does not align with growing traffic.
“At the moment, there is pressure on this facility. There is a need to construct a new terminal and expand and widen the runway,” said Dzinkambani.
On navigation and safety systems, he said ADL is in the process of procuring Instrument Landing System (ILS) which enables aircraft to land safely during low visibility and reduces cases where planes are forced to turn back.
Dzinkambani also noted that the airport’s perimeter fence was vandalised but efforts are underway to restore the damaged sections and enhance security.
ADL chief executive officer Victor Lungu said revenue generated from the upgraded car park is being reinvested into improving the terminal and critical systems such as the ILS and approach lighting.
He further said passenger numbers at BMIA have risen from 159 000 in 2022 to about 250 000 last year which has heightened the need for expansion.
Speaking in an interview, Mhango said the government is committed to mobilising resources to upgrade the airport and ensure it meets International Civil Aviation Organisation (Icao) certification standards.
“I am happy that ADL has made some improvements, including installation of scanners but there is much more to be done to turn this airport into an international facility worthy of its name,” he said.
Currently, Malawi does not have an Icao certified airport due to gaps in infrastructure, human resource, safety and security, among others.
In the 2026/27 National Budget, the government allocated K1.3 billion towards acquisition of technical services for the rehabilitation of BMIA terminal building and runways.
During the fiscal year, the government also plans to rehabilitate Kamuzu International Airport and carry out preparatory works and designs for the new Mzuzu Airport.
