Gateway to the Kruger National Park and Greater Limpopo.
Opened
2002
Location
Mbombela, South Africa
Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (IATA: MQP, ICAO: FAKN) is a regional international airport serving Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit) in Mpumalanga province, South Africa. It is the primary air gateway for tourists visiting the Kruger National Park and the surrounding Lowveld region.
The airport handles both domestic and limited international traffic, with connections to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and occasional charter and regional international flights. It plays a significant role in supporting the tourism economy of the Greater Kruger area.
Opened in 2002, the airport replaced the older Nelspruit Airport and was purpose-built to handle the growing demand for access to one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations.
Terminals
The airport operates a single passenger terminal handling both domestic and international arrivals and departures.
Getting to & from
Ground transport options include car rental, taxis, and shuttle services connecting the airport to Mbombela city centre and surrounding lodges and game reserves.
Airlines here
South African Airways, FlySafair, and Airlink have operated scheduled services to and from the airport, with Airlink being a significant carrier on the Johannesburg route.
Notable facts
- ›The airport is located approximately 27 kilometres north-east of Mbombela (Nelspruit).
- ›It serves as the main commercial airport for tourists accessing the southern and central Kruger National Park.
- ›The airport replaced the older Nelspruit Airport, which had limited capacity and runway length.
- ›The name honours the Kruger National Park and the Mpumalanga province it serves.
- ›Mpumalanga means 'place where the sun rises' in Zulu and Swati languages.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
