Fua'amotu International Airport, Tonga's only international terminal, serves Nuku'alofa, capital of the kingdom and seat of Oceania's oldest still-reigning monarchy.
Departure point for whale watching during migration, from July to October, among the country's most celebrated experiences.
How to get to Fua'amotu International Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to TBU
Parking near Fua'amotu International Airport
The parking lot is small and located right in front of the terminal.
Rates are in line with Pacific island destination standards.
How to get to Nukuʻalofa from TBU
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Airport transfers you can book in advance
Shuttles and private transfers you can book online, picked from the best rated by travelers.
Car rental at Fua'amotu International Airport
Only some car rental operators have a counter at arrivals.
Bring your license, passport and credit card: the International Driving Permit is almost always an additional requirement.
Hotels near Fua'amotu International Airport
Veitongo
About 8 km from Fua'amotu, less than half the distance that separates the airport from Nuku'alofa; private transfer organised directly by the guesthouse.
Best for: Those who want to cut the journey from the airport while staying in a quiet village, halfway between the runway and the capital.
- Less than half the journey compared with lodging in the city
- A quiet village setting, far from the capital's traffic
- Downtown Nuku'alofa is still around twenty minutes away by car
- A residential area with no restaurants or shops within walking distance, you depend on the guesthouse for meals
Nuku'alofa and Vaololoa
About 21 km and 30 minutes by un-metered taxi from the airport, the same journey as any lodging in the city; a price must be agreed before setting off.
Best for: Those who prefer to stay in the capital, with the market and the waterfront on hand, accepting the full transfer from the airport.
- Inside Nuku'alofa, closer to the market, the waterfront and the offices of the centre
- The quiet residential neighbourhood of Vaololoa Longolongo, far from the traffic of the main road
- A longer journey from the airport compared with lodging in Veitongo
- Very limited choice of verifiable lodging, almost only family guesthouses
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal, modestly sized, handles connections to New Zealand, Australia, Fiji and several Pacific islands.
The recommended check-in time for international flights is 2.5-3 hours.
Map of Fua'amotu International Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. When can you see humpback whales in Tonga?
From July to October, during the migration season, one of the country's most famous and sought-after nature experiences.
Q. How much does a taxi from the airport to Nuku'alofa cost?
Approximately 50-80 TOP (pa'anga), always to be agreed with the driver before departing.
Q. What is closed on Sundays in Tonga?
Most businesses, in keeping with Tonga's strict observance of Sunday as a day of rest.
Q. Is a visa required for Tonga?
Most visitors receive a free permit on arrival, valid for 31 days, with a passport valid for at least 6 months and a return ticket.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights