Airports Near Mbabane
Looking for the nearest airport to Mbabane? Mbabane is served by a couple of airports located in different directions around the city. With two airports within a 50-mile radius, you still have solid options to choose from. Here's a quick guide to help you find the one that best suits your travel plans.
What Is the Closest Airport to Mbabane?
The closest airport to Mbabane is Matsapha Airport (MTS), a medium-sized airport located approximately 18.2 miles (29.3 km) southeast of the city center. The driving distance is about 22.9 miles (36.9 km), which typically takes around 36 minutes by car.
If you're looking for better connectivity, the nearest major airport is King Mswati III International Airport (SHO), located about 36.3 miles (58.3 km) east of Mbabane in a straight line. The driving distance is around 54.4 miles (87.6 km), with an average travel time of about 1 hour and 6 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Matsapha Airport (MTS)
IATA: MTS · ICAO: FDMS
Direct Distance 📏
18.2 miles
29.3 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
22.9 miles
36.9 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
36 min
Direction ➤
Southeast
King Mswati III International Airport (SHO)
Located 36.3 miles (58.3 km) east of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
36.3 miles
58.3 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
54.4 miles
87.6 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
1 h 6 min
Direction ➤
East
Nearby airports to Mbabane
| Airport | Iata Code | Location | Distance | Driving Distance | Driving Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matsapha Airport | MTS | Manzini | 18.2 mi (29.3 km) | 22.9 mi (36.9 km) | 36 min | Medium-sized |
| King Mswati III International Airport | SHO | Manzini | 36.3 mi (58.3 km) | 54.4 mi (87.6 km) | 1 h 6 min | Large |
| Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport | MQP | Nelspruit | 64.5 mi (103.8 km) | 128.2 mi (206.3 km) | 3 h 11 min | Medium-sized |
| Maputo International Airport | MPM | Maputo | 93.4 mi (150.3 km) | 134.4 mi (216.3 km) | 3 h 6 min | Large |
| Skukuza Airport | SZK | Skukuza | 97.9 mi (157.5 km) | 133.8 mi (215.3 km) | 4 h 8 min | Medium-sized |
| Mala Mala Airport | AAM | Malamala | 106.7 mi (171.7 km) | 190.9 mi (307.2 km) | 6 h 17 min | Medium-sized |
| Air Force Base Hoedspruit | HDS | Hoedspruit | 134.7 mi (216.8 km) | 200.8 mi (323.2 km) | 5 h 53 min | Small |
Closest Airports to Other Cities Near Mbabane
Planning to travel somewhere else in the region? Find the closest airport to these nearby cities:
General Airport Travel Tips
- Allow enough time: It's generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Check your terminal: Confirm your departure terminal before heading to the airport, especially at larger airports.
- Airport selection: When choosing between multiple airports, consider flight availability, prices, and proximity to your final destination.
- Transportation options: Research transportation options to and from the airport including public transit, taxis, rideshares, or car rentals.
- Check flight status: Always verify your flight status before heading to the airport as schedules can change.
When planning your trip to Mbabane, choosing the right airport can help ensure a smoother travel experience. Consider all available options based on your specific needs.