Arorae Island Airport

Welcome

Arorae Island Airport (AIS) is less of a conventional airport and more of a utilitarian airstrip, linking Kiribati’s southernmost atoll to the rest of the country. Serving as a gateway for just over 500 passengers annually, AIS sees only a handful of Air Kiribati flights each month. It's a place where arrivals feel more like stepping into a village than an airport, with the main hub of activity centered around pre-arranged logistics and the welcoming hands of local hosts.

At a glance

With only one runway and terminal (T1), AIS is located north of the village of Tamaroa. This airport services flights exclusively operated by Air Kiribati. There are no restaurants, lounges, shops, or parking, making it a place where simplicity reigns. Pack your patience and all your essentials as you prepare for a truly off-the-grid travel experience.

Terminals & layout

Arorae Island Airport operates from a single terminal, T1, absent of typical airport amenities. The terminal lacks services such as food outlets or ATMs, reflecting its role as a basic airstrip rather than a conventional airport. Check-in and boarding procedures are handled in one straightforward building, often involving handwritten manifests and a community-oriented process.

Getting to and from the city

The airport is located north of Tamaroa village and, with no formal taxi or shuttle services, you will need to coordinate your transport beforehand. Most travelers rely on pre-arranged pick-ups via local trucks or minibuses. It is crucial to plan your arrival and departure in tandem with your accommodation or local council to ensure seamless travel from the airstrip to your destination.

Traveller essentials

Be prepared with all necessary supplies as AIS provides no on-site facilities. Bring enough cash, water, and snacks for any unexpected delays. Internet connectivity is sparse, so have offline or printed tickets and reservations handy. Additionally, pack a basic first-aid kit—most outer islands have only rudimentary health posts.

Dining & shopping highlights

Don’t expect dining or shopping at AIS. The airport has no restaurants, cafes, or retail outlets. Any essentials should be purchased in Tarawa or another more developed island before flying in.

Lounges

There are no lounges at Arorae Island Airport. The waiting area is minimal, reflecting the straightforward nature of travel through this remote destination.

Insider tips

• Insider: Treat AIS as a purely functional airstrip: there is no evidence of on-site food, shops, or ATMs, so arrive prepared.
• Time: Book flights as early as possible and schedule buffer days in Tarawa or Tabiteuea to accommodate potential delays.
• Avoid: Confusion on arrival by arranging pick-up and drop-off with local providers in advance due to the lack of formal transportation.
• Money: Carry sufficient cash to mitigate the lack of ATMs and ensure access to supplies and services.
• Quiet: Experience the serene and stress-free environment compared to Pacific airports, often shared only with a few other travelers.
• Local: Shuttle directly from the airstrip to island surroundings, offering lagoon views and access to maneaba houses.
• Insider: Expect informal boarding with handwritten manifests and be patient with local processes.