Dodoma. The first aircraft has successfully touched down on a trial basis at the newly constructed Msalato International Airport, marking a pivotal milestone in the development of Dodoma’s flagship aviation hub.
A Bombardier Q400 operated by Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) conducted the test landing on June 13—a demonstration of the airport’s operational readiness ahead of its inauguration next week.
Speaking to journalists after the landing, Minister for Works, Mr Abdallah Ulega, highlighted the strategic significance of the exercise.
“The successful landing of the aircraft is an important step in validating the safety and functionality of the runway and other facilities. We are preparing to begin partial operations even before the project reaches its full completion,” he said, noting that the test flight forms part of the final phase of construction.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport, Prof Godius Kahyarara, emphasised the economic potential of the new airport: “With construction now at around 85–87 per cent, we are assessing which sections can be safely opened ahead of full completion to fast‑track service delivery.”
He explained that its central location in Dodoma enhances connectivity not only within Tanzania, but with neighbouring nations as well.
The director General of the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA), Mr Abdul Mombokaleo, confirmed that essential preparations were underway to ensure aircraft can land safely and operations can commence soon.
“With today’s successful test flight, we are confident in moving forward with operational plans. The Msalato International Airport will soon be ready to serve travellers and contribute meaningfully to Tanzania’s air transport sector,” he affirmed.
Funded largely through a US$330 million loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and its affiliates, alongside government contributions, the airport is being built to accommodate wide‑body aircraft—including Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A380s .
The runway spans 3.6 km in length and 60 m in width; two parallel taxiways and a parking apron capable of accommodating multiple large aircraft have been completed .
As of February 2025, runway construction reached approximately 84 per cent and the passenger terminal around 51 per cent; both targets were scheduled for completion by mid‑2025
