(Old) Awasa Airport

Hawassa Airport sits seven kilometers outside the city of Hawassa in Ethiopia's Sidama Region, serving as the main air link for a city of around 400,000 people. The airport operates under limited hours, handling flights four times per day with each turn-around lasting a maximum of thirty minutes. Despite its modest scale, the terminal provides all essential services: a coffee shop, food options, retail stores, and wheelchair-accessible facilities. The airport's single runway handles Ethiopian Airlines flights from Addis Ababa, making it a critical connection for business travelers, tourists heading to the Rift Valley lakes, and locals visiting family.

Getting There

The airport is located about seven kilometers from Hawassa city center along the main road that continues toward Shashamane. Minibuses are the most common transport option for passengers traveling between the city and the airport. As of 2024, the fare is 150 Ethiopian birr per person. Minibuses operate along the route frequently, though schedules are not fixed; drivers wait until the vehicle fills before departing. Passengers arriving at the airport may find minibuses waiting outside after landing times, but those traveling to the airport for a departure should allow extra time to find transport. Taxis are also available at a higher cost, typically negotiated before the journey. The drive takes about fifteen to twenty minutes depending on traffic. For those driving themselves, the road is paved and in reasonable condition, but limited signage means navigation is easier with local knowledge or a map app. Parking at the airport is simple and free, with a small lot directly in front of the terminal.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal building is compact, with a single level covering check-in, security, and boarding areas. Passengers should arrive at least one hour before departure to allow time for check-in procedures. Check-in counters are straightforward, with staff handling both domestic and occasional charter flights. Security screening uses a small X-ray machine and metal detector; wait times are generally short due to low passenger volumes. The departure lounge has seating for around forty people, with windows overlooking the runway. A small café serves coffee – a worthwhile stop given Ethiopia's coffee reputation – along with snacks and light meals. There is also a shop selling drinks, packaged goods, and basic travel essentials. Restrooms are available, including one that is wheelchair-accessible. The entire terminal is wheelchair-friendly, with ramp access and level flooring. Announcements are made in Amharic and English. The airport does not have air-conditioning throughout; ventilation comes from open windows and fans. On hot days, it can be warm inside. Boarding is by walk to the aircraft on the tarmac.

Hawassa Airport Turning Road Hawaasaa 'Ayare Maarayaa Maazoriyaa and Hawassa

The airport's full name includes both Amharic and local language elements, reflecting the multilingual character of the region. Hawassa itself is the capital of the Sidama Region, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Hawassa, one of several lakes in the Ethiopian Rift Valley. The city is a growing hub for tourism, education, and government. Lake Hawassa is known for its hippopotamus population and birdlife, with boat trips available from several resorts along the shoreline. The nearby Lake Awassa National Park protects woodland and savanna, hosting herds of wildebeest and zebra introduced from other parts of Ethiopia. For many visitors, Hawassa is a gateway to the broader Rift Valley lake district, including Shashamane, Lake Ziway, and the Arsi Mountains. The city itself has a lively market, cultural sites such as the Sidama Cultural Museum, and a growing number of hotels and restaurants catering to international tourists. Sidama coffee is celebrated for its quality; the region produces some of Ethiopia's most distinctive beans. The airport's role in connecting Hawassa to Addis Ababa is vital for commerce: fresh produce, particularly coffee and vegetables, is sometimes shipped as air cargo. Travelers using this airport should plan around its limited schedule, with flights concentrated during midday. The busiest times are Mondays at 3 pm, Tuesdays at 12 pm, Wednesdays at 11 am, and Thursdays at 12 pm – periods when the terminal can feel busier but still manageably small. The airport may close outside these flight windows, so check with the airline before heading out. For those spending time in Hawassa, the lakefront promenade is a pleasant spot for an evening walk, and several restaurants serve fresh fish from the lake. The city also hosts Hawassa University, which brings students from across Ethiopia and gives the town a youthful energy. Local markets sell Sidama coffee beans, woven baskets, and traditional clothing. The climate is mild year-round, with rain most common from June to September. Overall, Hawassa offers a relaxed atmosphere with enough attractions to justify a longer stay.

Practical Information

The airport is not open all day; it operates only during flight times. Currently, flights run four times per day, with limited frequency. Check the Ethiopian Airlines schedule for exact timings. Contact the airport via Ethiopian Airlines' customer service; the airport itself does not have a dedicated phone line. The website for Ethiopian Airlines provides flight information. For transport, aim to arrive at the airport at least one hour before departure. The minibus fare of 150 birr is a good reference but confirm with the driver. Carry small bills for payment. Facilities: coffee, food, shops, wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilet, standard toilets. One concrete piece of advice: Book your transport from the city to the airport in advance if possible, as minibuses can be unpredictable; many local hotels can arrange a taxi or minibus for a set price, ensuring you don't miss the short turnaround time.