Infrastructure and Facilities at Mansa Koto International Airport
Mansa Koto International Airport is designed with a comprehensive and modern infrastructure to meet the needs of international and regional travelers, cargo logistics, and aviation training. Below herewith is a detailed overview of the planned infrastructure and facilities.
Runways
5 Main Runways
The airport will feature 5 primary runways each measuring 2 kilometers in length and 50 meters wide, designed to accommodate a wide range of aircraft, including large commercial jets.
5 Secondary Runways
In addition to the 5 main runways, the airport will include a 5 secondary runways. These secondary runways are for smaller aircraft and serves to increase the airport's operational flexibility, especially during peak hours or in case of emergencies.
5 Passenger Terminals
The airport's passenger terminal is a modern facility with 500 multiple gates for boarding and disembarking and 6 Terminals. It features comprehensive security checkpoints, customs areas, and dedicated zones for arrivals and departures. The terminals will include amenities like lounges, restaurants, retail shops, and baggage claim areas.
Cargo Terminal
A separate cargo terminal will handle air freight operations, offering dedicated zones for cargo sorting, loading, and unloading. The cargo terminal will be equipped with modern technology to support efficient cargo logistics and storage.
Control Tower
Air Traffic Control Tower
The air traffic control tower will manage all aircraft movements within and around the airport. This state-of-the-art facility is equipped with advanced communication systems, radar technology, and other specialised equipment to ensure safe and efficient air traffic control.
Parking Areas
Vehicle Parking
The airport will have extensive parking facilities to accommodate passengers, staff, and visitors. The parking areas include designated spots for short-term and long-term parking, with dedicated zones for taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttle buses.
Aircraft Parking and Hangars
Sufficient space is provided for aircraft parking, with additional hangars for aircraft storage and maintenance. These facilities support the airport's Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services and its aircraft manufacturing segment.
Access Roads
Highway Connections
The Kiang/Jarra-Kabada Loop Phase I highway runs alongside the airport, providing direct access for vehicles. This major roadway ensures smooth traffic flow to and from the airport.
Internal Roads
Within the airport, an internal road network connects the various facilities, allowing for efficient movement of cargo, airport staff, and other vehicles.
Additional Facilities
Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Facility
This dedicated facility is designed to offer maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for various types of aircraft. It includes workshops, inspection areas, and specialized equipment.
Aircraft Manufacturing Plant
Mansa Koto International Airport will host an aircraft manufacturing plant that supports the production and assembly of aircraft components. This plant is designed with advanced machinery and equipment for high-quality manufacturing.
Aviation University
The airport's aviation university offers pilot training and other aviation-related education. The facility includes classrooms, training simulators, and other educational resources to support aviation studies.
Free Zone Area
Free Zone Area for Export Processing and Packaging
To further strengthen Mansa Koto International Airport's role as a regional hub, creating a Free Zone Area dedicated to export processing and packaging is a strategic move. This area would cater to businesses engaged in manufacturing, assembly, processing, packaging, and exporting goods.
Mansa Koto International Airport Freezone is an attractive location for businesses focused on export processing and packaging. It will enhance the airport's role as a regional economic driver and further contributes to the Gambia's position as a key player in West African trade and logistics.
Advantages of the Free Zone Area
Companies operating within the Free Zone Area will enjoy tax benefits, such as exemption from import duties, reduced corporate taxes, and other incentives. This will attract businesses seeking cost-effective operations and will encourage export-oriented activities.
Free Zone Area will have streamlined customs and regulatory processes, enabling quicker movement of goods. This will reduce bureaucracy and foster a business-friendly environment.
The Free Zone Area would be designed with the necessary infrastructure for manufacturing and processing, including dedicated warehouses, loading docks, and transportation links. It will also offer essential services like customs clearance, quality control, and security.
Being part of Mansa Koto International Airport, the Free Zone Area will benefit from excellent access to air cargo facilities and proximity to key transportation routes. This will enhance appeal for companies involved in exports.
The presence of a Free Zone Area will attract both domestic and foreign investment, driving economic growth and creating job opportunities in the region.
The Free Zone Area will be located near the cargo terminal, facilitating easy transportation of goods for export. This proximity enables seamless integration with air cargo logistics.
The Free Zone Area would benefit from the existing highway connections and internal road networks, ensuring efficient movement of goods to and from the airport.
The Free Zone Area will collaborate with the aircraft manufacturing plant within the airport, creating opportunities for component manufacturing and assembly for export.
Given that the airport serves as a hub for United Nations relief and peacekeeping dispatch, the Free Zone Area will provide additional capacity for packaging and shipping humanitarian supplies.
