Domestic and international flights at Dr. António Agostinho Neto Airport (AIAAN) are scheduled to commence in the second half of November, as announced by the general director of the Temporary Operator of the New Luanda Airport (ATO), António Pombal.
This announcement came during the third integrated simulation of operational tests at the new airport.
Pombal revealed that airlines are currently reprogramming and adjusting flight codes, along with other operational and logistical procedures.
He also reported that the transfer process from 4 de Fevereiro Airport to AIAAN is 62% complete, with finalization expected before the new airport begins operations.
The simulation aimed to test the operational systems and procedures of all airport stakeholders, ensuring that actions adhere to established parameters ahead of the launch.
Approximately 1,683 passengers participated in this exercise, including 83 disembarking passengers from a TAAG flight that landed at AIAAN around 10:18 a.m. Additionally, around 1,600 passengers boarded three international flights and two domestic destinations.
The simulation involved two airlines: TAAG and Qatar Airways, and assessed various services, including check-in, migration, baggage collection by the General Tax Agency (AGT), and health and safety systems.
Pombal confirmed that the next simulation is planned for October, with the participation of nearly all airlines operating in Angola.
Tânia Abreu, the Marketing Director of ATO, explained that these simulations are critical for identifying potential issues and refining procedures during the transition from 4 de Fevereiro Airport to AIAAN.
The goal is to evaluate the operational readiness of essential airport areas and assess the response capabilities of teams under the Emergency Plan, ensuring efficient and safe airport operations in line with international standards.
The simulations covered all aspects of airport operations, including passenger arrival, boarding processes, baggage handling, and overall movement of passengers and aircraft.
Participants arrived at the new airport via various means, including train, taxi, private car, bus, and a TAAG flight.
