Just two miles (3km) from the central business district, Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) is sometimes called the “10-minute airport” because of its close proximity to just about everything. It's a very small, slick and functional airport that doesn't offer much by way of shopping and dining, but will get you through customs and baggage claim quickly and efficiently.
Known fondly as “the Friendly City”, Port Elizabeth is a popular spot with tourists who come for the beautiful beaches and game parks in the surrounding area. The city is also a major port town and manufacturing center, and an important transport hub in the region. What it lacks in blockbuster attractions, it makes up for in the warmth of the local people and laid-back atmosphere – rather like its airport.
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There is only one small terminal at Port Elizabeth Airport.
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Train: There's no train station at the airport. Your best bet is to hail a taxi, as it shouldn't be too far to your final destination. Airport Authority-approved taxis leave from just outside the terminal building – you'll know then by the ACSA logo. There are also a number of other metered taxis that leave from just outside the building, but make sure you travel with an official, registered car. It shouldn't cost more than ZAR 50 (about £4) to get into town.
Bus: There is no reliable bus service from the airport. You can take a minibus taxi, a common form of transport in South Africa, for about ZAR 10-15 (£0.80-£1.30), but this is inadvisable unless you're familiar with this mode of transportation and the area. The airport operates a shuttle bus once or twice a day, for between ZAR 300 (£26) and ZAR 500 (£43) depending on the number of passengers. You can arrange a bus with the airport. There's also EZShuttle, which charges a minimum of ZAR 300 for a sedan and ZAR 450 for a minibus.
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There is both short-term and long-term parking available, only a few minutes' walk to the terminal building. There is also a free drop-and-go area directly outside the terminal.
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Money and communications: There are ATMs and currency exchange.
Luggage: There is no left-luggage facility at the airport. For lost items, check with the airline concerned or at the information desk.
Conference and business: There are conference facilities at the airport, although you'll need to book ahead of time.
Other facilities: There are a few travel agents at the airport as well as a visitor's information center.
Wi-Fi: There is Wi-Fi coverage at Port Elizabeth Airport, although it's not free. You can set up an account online with AlwaysOn and pay by credit card online. The coffee shop also has vouchers for sale if you'd prefer to pay in cash.
Shopping: There are a number of African curio and Port Elizabeth memento and souvenir stores, as well as a Sunglasses Hut, a clothing store, a newsagent and a couple of cell phone shops.
Food and drink: There are just a few eateries at the airport, although you should be able to find something to suit you. Grab a quick bite at one of the snack vendors in the ticketing area, a hot cup of coffee and light meal at Mugg and Bean, or a pizza and cocktail at Primi Piatti. Or you could try the Mile High Pub on the top floor, which has a good view of the runway.
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