King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) Lubombo Region
King Mswati III International Airport (IATA: SHO, ICAO: FDSK) is the main international gateway of the Kingdom of Eswatini, connecting this small southern African nation with regional and global aviation networks. Located in the Lubombo region, the airport represents Eswatini’s ambition to welcome travellers through a modern aviation hub designed to support tourism, trade, and economic growth.
Opened in 2014, the airport replaced Matsapha Airport as Eswatini’s primary international passenger airport. Managed by the Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority, it serves as a gateway for visitors exploring Eswatini’s wildlife reserves, cultural heritage, and scenic landscapes.
King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) Details
| Information Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | King Mswati III International Airport |
| Airport Code (IATA) | SHO |
| ICAO Code | FDSK |
| Airport Type | International Public Airport |
| Location | Lubombo Region, Kingdom of Eswatini |
| Country | Eswatini (Southern Africa) |
| Opened | 2014 |
| Operator | Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority (ESWACAA) |
| Former Name | Sikhuphe International Airport (during planning and construction) |
| Runway | 3,600 metres asphalt runway |
| Main Purpose | International passenger flights, tourism, business travel, and regional connectivity |
| Official Website | King Mswati III International Airport / ESWACAA Airport Page |
| Wikipedia Page | King Mswati III International Airport Wikipedia |
| Airport Helpdesk Phone | +268 2333 5512 |
| ESWACAA Main Phone Numbers | +268 2333 5370 / +268 2333 5400 / +268 2333 5465 |
| Email Contact | info@eswacaa.co.sz |
| Marketing Email | marketing@eswacaa.co.sz |
| Emergency / Airport Assistance Contact | +268 2333 5512 (Airport Helpdesk) |
| Country Emergency Services | Police: 999 / Ambulance: 977 / Fire: 933 (verify locally before travel) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the airport code for King Mswati III International Airport?
The IATA airport code for King Mswati III International Airport is SHO, while its ICAO code is FDSK.
2. Where is King Mswati III International Airport located?
The airport is located in the Lubombo Region of Eswatini, a country in southern Africa bordered by South Africa and Mozambique.
3. What is the official website of King Mswati III International Airport?
The official airport information is available through the Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority website: ESWACAA King Mswati III International Airport Information
4. Which authority manages King Mswati III International Airport?
The airport is operated and managed by the Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority (ESWACAA).
5. What is the contact number for King Mswati III International Airport?
Passengers can contact the airport helpdesk at +268 2333 5512. The ESWACAA main office numbers include +268 2333 5370 and related lines.
6. Is King Mswati III International Airport open for international flights?
Yes. It serves as Eswatini’s main international passenger airport and replaced Matsapha Airport for international commercial aviation.
7. What attractions can travellers access from SHO Airport?
Travellers arriving at SHO Airport can explore Eswatini’s famous wildlife reserves, traditional cultural experiences, mountains, and nature destinations.
8. How early should passengers arrive before a flight at SHO Airport?
For international flights, passengers should generally arrive around 2–3 hours before departure to complete check-in, security, and immigration procedures.