Domestic and international flights at Dr. António Agostinho Neto Airport (AIAAN) are scheduled to begin in the second half of November, according to António Pombal, the general director of the Temporary Operator of the New Luanda Airport (ATO).
Speaking during the third integrated operational test simulation, Pombal confirmed that airlines are currently reprogramming flight codes and adjusting operational and logistical procedures.
The transfer of operations from the 4 de Fevereiro Airport to AIAAN is 62% complete, with the full transition expected before the new airport officially begins operations.
The recent simulation, involving 1,683 passengers, tested the airport’s operational systems and procedures. Among the participants, 83 passengers disembarked from a TAAG flight that landed at 10:18 a.m., while the rest took part in boarding processes for three international flights and two domestic routes.
TAAG and Qatar Airways participated in this simulation, testing services such as check-in, customs, health and safety, and baggage collection.
António Pombal also announced that the next simulation will take place in October, involving nearly all airlines operating in the country, as part of the final phase before the airport’s launch.
Tânia Abreu, Marketing Director of the ATO, emphasized that these exercises are essential for identifying and addressing any issues while fine-tuning operational procedures.
The simulations are designed to ensure the readiness of key airport areas and assess the emergency response capabilities in line with international standards.
This process covers the entire passenger journey, from arrival to boarding, including baggage handling and general airport operations.
The third simulation also involved staff movements, aircraft landings and take-offs, cargo transactions, and passenger arrivals by train, taxi, private cars, buses, and a TAAG aircraft.
