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King Phalo Airport (ELS/FAEL), formerly East London Airport, is the main gateway to East London and the Eastern Cape's Sunshine Coast. Located about 10 km west of the city centre, it was renamed in 2021 after the Xhosa king Phalo. The airport handles domestic flights and offers a compact, easy-to-navigate terminal.
💡 Local Tip
Because the terminal is small, check-in and security are usually quick, but food and retail options are limited and may close before the last flights. Eat before you arrive or bring snacks, and note that maps and signs may still use 'East London Airport' alongside 'King Phalo Airport'.
🚖 Getting There
The airport is about a 15-20 minute drive from central East London via the N2 and Airport Road. Metered taxis and ride-hailing apps serve the airport, but availability can be limited, so pre-booking a shuttle or rental car is recommended. Major car rental companies have desks in the arrivals terminal, and parking is close to the entrance.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the airport's official name?
A: King Phalo Airport, formerly known as East London Airport; IATA code ELS and ICAO code FAEL.
Q: Which airlines fly to King Phalo Airport?
A: Domestic South African carriers operate scheduled flights, typically linking East London with Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other major cities. Check current schedules as routes can change.
Q: How far is the airport from East London city centre?
A: It is about 10 km (6 miles) west of the city centre, usually a 15-20 minute drive depending on traffic.
Q: What facilities are available at the airport?
A: The single terminal has car rental desks, ATMs, a small restaurant or cafe, and basic retail. Services are limited compared with major hubs, so plan accordingly.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 28, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash