Airports Near Durban
The closest airports to Durban, South Africa: IATA codes, names and distances, each with a full airport guide covering terminals, lounges and transit.
The nearest airport to Durban, South Africa is Virginia Airport (VIR), about 6 mi (10 km) away — roughly 21 min by road. For long-haul flights, the main international gateway is King Shaka International Airport (DUR).
| Code | Airport | Distance | Transfer | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIR | Virginia AirportDurban, South Africa | 6 mi / 10 km | 21 min | Regional |
| DUR | King Shaka International AirportDurban, South Africa | 17 mi / 28 km | 34 min | International |
| PZB | Pietermaritzburg AirportPietermaritzburg, South Africa | 40 mi / 65 km | 1 hr 12 min | Regional |
| MGH | Margate AirportMargate, South Africa | 80 mi / 129 km | 1 hr 52 min | Regional |
| EMG | Empangeni AirportEmpangeni, South Africa | 94 mi / 152 km | 2 hr 12 min | Regional |
| RCB | Richards Bay AirportRichards Bay, South Africa | 100 mi / 161 km | 2 hr 20 min | Regional |
| ULD | Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi AirportUlundi, South Africa | 109 mi / 175 km | 2 hr 32 min | Regional |
| LAY | Ladysmith AirportLadysmith, South Africa | 117 mi / 189 km | 2 hr 44 min | Regional |
Distances are straight-line; transfer times are road estimates. "Type" flags major/international gateways.
Which airport is best?
For the shortest transfer, Virginia Airport (VIR) is the most convenient at about 6 mi out. If you're flying internationally or want the widest choice of routes, King Shaka International Airport (DUR) (17 mi) is the bigger gateway — worth the extra distance for long-haul or cheaper fares.
Getting to and from the airport
Taxis and ride-hailing serve every airport here, and the larger ones usually add a rail, metro or bus link into Durban. Allow extra time in peak traffic. For exact routes, times and fares, open the airport guide — start with VIR.
Hotels near the airport
For early departures or late arrivals, a hotel near VIR saves a stressful morning transfer.
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Other cities these airports serve
Travel tips
Compare the total door-to-door time, not just the airfare — a cheaper flight into a distant airport can cost more once you add the transfer. Check whether your airport has a direct train or metro before defaulting to a taxi, and for international arrivals, confirm any visa or transit rules in advance.
Frequently asked questions
The nearest airport to Durban is Virginia Airport (VIR), about 6 mi (10 km) away — roughly 21 min by road.