Friction stir welding (FSW) is a relatively better joining technique particularly for magnesium and aluminum alloys that are difficult to weld by fusion welding processes. In this paper, friction stir weld of 6 mm thick rolled AZ61A magnesium alloy joints were obtained at proper process parameter. The base metal and welded joints of AZ61A were analyzed using on optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile testing, fatigue properties and Vickers microhardness measurements. Fatigue experiment was conducted using computerized servo hydraulic controlled fatigue testing machine (INSTRON-8801). Fatigue strength, fatigue notch factor and notch sensitivity factor were evaluated. It is found that the fatigue strength of AZ61A welded joints is 54 Mpa which is 29% lower than that of the base metal fatigue strength. © 2015 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.