The Tanzanian region of Mtwara in the south of the country has gained global prominence over the natural gas finds off shore, said to be amongst the highest proven reserves in the world.
Getting to Mtwara though is a challenge as presently only Precision Air flies there from Dar es Salaam, using one of their ATR turboprop aircraft.
With the runway too short to accommodate larger planes and in particular jets, has the Mtwara business community lobbied long for an expansion of the airport which is located just a few kilometres from the town centre.
Confirmation has now been received that by June this year major works will commence, to expand the runway, erect a secure perimeter fence and improve the terminal buildings and other facilities, including the placement of a new radar station.
Once the works have been completed is Fastjet thought to eye the route with jet aircraft but in the more immediate future is Air Tanzania intent to fly from Dar es Salaam to Mtwara using their new Bombardier Q400NG aircraft which can safely land and take off from the two landing strips, one gravel and the other one tarmac.
Added air traffic to Mtwara, IATA designation MYW / ICAO HTMT is set to also open up this part of Tanzania, not too far from the border with Mozambique for trade and tourism as investments in hotels and beach side resorts are now also being considered by local and international developers.
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