Durban’s King Shaka International Airport – South Africa
The primary airport serving Durban, South Africa is the second best airport in Africa, according to the rankings. Recognised previously in the Skytrax awards, the airport won this year’s award for Best Regional Airport in Africa and Best Airport Staff in Africa serving 5-10 million passengers. Located in La Mercy, KwaZulu-Natal, approximately 35 km (22 mi) north of the city centre of Durban, King Shaka International airport opened just before the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It replaced Durban International Airport. Designed at a cost of about $900 million, the airport has, since its opening, experienced massive growth. According to official statistics from the Airports Company of South Africa, KSIA handled a total of 5,880,390 passengers in 2018, showing a growth of 6.4%. The airport has several international airlines operating from King Shaka, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Air Mauritius and Air Namibia. Travellers praise the airport for its layout, efficient travel processes and manageable walking distances.
