Aviation

Explore our Aviation Services

Our Aviation Services

The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) of Malawi plays a pivotal role in aviation safety by providing critical and timely weather information. Recognizing that weather can be one of the most significant hazards to aviation, the DCCMS ensures the industry is well-informed to safeguard lives and enhance operational efficiency. Their services, which adhere to the international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), include meteorological monitoring for the region, detailed reports to Air Traffic Control, comprehensive weather summaries for search and rescue operations, and specific forecasts for terminals and flight paths. Additionally, the DCCMS conducts briefings for pilots, offers prognostic weather charts, and disseminates significant meteorological information, all essential for navigating the skies safely and efficiently.

What we do

Meteorological Watch

Monitoring weather conditions over Malawi's aviation region

Air Traffic Control Weather Reports

Providing current weather details to Air Traffic Control

Rescue Operation Summaries

Offering weather summaries for search and rescue missions

Terminal Forecasts

Delivering weather forecasts for specific aerodromes and flight paths

Pilot Briefings

Informing pilots about expected weather at various checkpoints

Weather Charts

Supplying prognostic charts for weather prediction

SIGMETs

Issuing significant meteorological information for Kamuzu International Airport

Global Synops

Distributing weather synopses worldwide via AFTN and GTS from Kamuzu International Airport

Lilongwe International Airport

Lilongwe International Airport (IATA: LLW, ICAO: FWKI) stands as a hallmark of connectivity in the heart of Malawi's capital city, Lilongwe. Since its establishment in 1977 by the Nello L. Teer Company, it has proudly taken the baton from the Old Lilongwe Airport, becoming the primary gateway for international and domestic flights. Operated by Airport Developments Limited, this airport is perched at an altitude of 4,035 feet, offering panoramic views of the city's lush landscapes. Its sole runway, designated 14/32, boasts an asphalt surface that stretches 3,540 meters in length and 45 meters in width, accommodating a diverse range of aircraft. The strategic location and robust infrastructure of Lilongwe International Airport serve as a testament to Malawi's commitment to facilitating global exchange and travel.

Chileka International Airport

Chileka International Airport, bearing the IATA code BLZ and ICAO code FWCL, is a crucial aviation hub located a mere 16 kilometers from the vibrant city of Blantyre, Malawi's commercial heart and the second-largest urban center in the nation. This airport, nestled at an elevation of 2,555 feet above sea level, boasts two asphalt-paved runways that cater to a variety of aircraft. The longer runway, 10/28, extends 2,325 meters in length, while the shorter, 15/33, measures 1,372 meters, both with a width of 30 meters, ensuring the safe arrival and departure of flights.

Chileka International Airport has recently seen significant enhancements to its terminals, elevating the passenger experience and streamlining operations. Although plans for runway extension have been put on hold due to spatial and financial constraints, the airport remains a cornerstone in Malawi's aviation infrastructure, facilitating the flow of commerce, tourism, and international connectivity for the Southern Region of the country.