Phillip Gaonwe Matante International Airport

Overview

PG Matante International Airport (IATA: FRW) is the primary air gateway serving Francistown, Botswana’s second-largest city. Named after a prominent local figure—the grandfather of Botswana’s first president, Sir Seretse Khama—the airport plays a vital role in connecting the northeastern region with domestic and international destinations. Operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana, it handles a mix of scheduled flights by Air Botswana and other carriers, as well as charter and general aviation traffic. The airport serves a diverse passenger base: business travellers heading to the region’s mining and commercial hubs, tourists en route to safari lodges in the Tuli Block or further north, and locals travelling to Gaborone, Johannesburg, or Victoria Falls. Despite its modest size, it provides essential connectivity for an area that relies heavily on air transport due to long road distances.

Location & Access

PG Matante Airport is situated approximately 5 kilometres south of Francistown’s city centre, off the A1 highway. This major north–south route links Francistown to Gaborone (about 430 km south) and to the Zimbabwe border at Ramokgwebana (about 20 km east). The airport’s proximity to the city makes transfers quick and affordable.

Getting to the airport:

• Taxi: Metered taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available in Francistown. The journey from the city centre takes roughly 10–15 minutes.
• Car rental: Several international and local car rental agencies have desks at the terminal, allowing visitors to pick up vehicles on arrival. The airport offers a designated car park with wheelchair-accessible spaces.
• Private transfer: Many hotels and lodges in the region provide pre-arranged transfers; it is advisable to confirm with your accommodation.
• Public transport: Minibus taxis (combis) operate along the A1 and can drop passengers near the airport turn-off, but they do not enter the terminal. Most travellers prefer taxis for convenience.

For those driving from other towns: the airport is a straight drive on the A1 from Gaborone (about 4.5 hours) and from Selebi-Phikwe (about 2 hours). Parking is free and secure for short stays.

Facilities

PG Matante Airport is a compact terminal with amenities focused on essential passenger comfort. The airport is notably accessible:

• Wheelchair-accessible car park: Reserved spaces near the entrance for vehicles displaying disability permits.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance: Ramps and wide doors ensure easy entry for passengers with reduced mobility.
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet: A dedicated accessible restroom is located inside the terminal.
• Baggage storage: Left-luggage services are available for passengers who wish to explore Francistown during a layover. Charges apply; inquire at the information desk.
• Toilets: Standard clean restrooms are located in the departure and arrival areas.

While the airport does not have extensive commercial outlets, a small café or kiosk may operate seasonally—but this is not confirmed. Passengers should plan to bring snacks or purchase supplies in town before arriving. The terminal has basic seating and air conditioning. Wi-Fi is not confirmed, so consider downloading maps or documents beforehand.

About the Region

Francistown is the commercial and administrative heart of Botswana’s North-East District. Historically a gold-mining centre during the late 19th century, the city today is a hub for mining (copper, nickel, coal), agriculture, and cross-border trade with Zimbabwe. The surrounding region is rich in wildlife and natural attractions.

Key draws for visitors:

• Tuli Block and Mashatu Game Reserve: About 100 km south-east of Francistown, this private reserve is known for its elephant herds, big cats, and ancient sandstone landscapes. Many lodges arrange fly-in charters via PG Matante.
• Northern Tuli Game Reserve: Part of the Greater Mapungubwe Transfrontier Conservation Area, offering excellent safari opportunities.
• Victoria Falls: About 230 km north via the A1 and Zimbabwe’s A8, the falls are a popular day-trip destination for those with rental cars or organised tours.
• Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Although far west, Francistown is a convenient stopover for self-drivers heading to the central Kalahari.
• Francistown itself: The city has a museum, the Supa Ngwao Museum, and the old town’s mining heritage. But most passengers use the airport as a transit point for safari adventures.

The region’s semi-arid climate means hot summers (October–March) and mild winters. Rain is mainly between November and March.

Practical Information

Operating hours: PG Matante International Airport does not operate 24/7. It typically opens early morning (around 6:00 am) and closes after the last scheduled evening flight. Exact hours may vary by season and flight schedule. Peak passenger flow occurs between 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm, when many flights arrive or depart. Passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures.

Contact details:

• Telephone: +267 368 8200 (Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana, Francistown office)
• Website: https://www.airbotswana.co.bw/ – While primarily the Air Botswana site, it includes airport information and flight schedules.

For real-time flight updates, check the airline’s website or call the airport directly. The airport does not have a dedicated social media presence; official announcements are made through the Civil Aviation Authority.

Tips:

• Currency exchange is not confirmed at the airport; use ATMs in Francistown city centre before departure.
• The airport has no duty-free shops, but small retail or snack options may appear intermittently.
• Mobile connectivity is good in the terminal for Botswana networks. Roaming charges apply for international visitors.

In summary, PG Matante International Airport is a functional yet small facility that serves as a vital link for northeastern Botswana. Its accessibility features and baggage storage add convenience for passengers with specific needs or those in transit. While amenities are basic, the airport’s location near Francistown and the region’s wildlife treasures makes it a practical starting point for exploration.