𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝟏𝟎 𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚: Traveler’s Guide

Africa’s aviation sector has transformed over the past two decades. Once seen as challenging for international travelers, the continent now boasts modern hubs that rival those in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. These airports aren’t just gateways — they are economic powerhouses, architectural icons, and symbols of Africa’s growing global presence.

Here’s a detailed look at the Top 10 Airports in Africa, with everything you need to know: from how to get there, to their history, services, and even fun facts.

1. O. R. Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg, South Africa)

The busiest airport in Africa, O. R. Tambo International Airport is the beating heart of the continent’s aviation network. Originally opened in 1952 as Jan Smuts Airport, it was renamed in 2006 after Oliver Reginald Tambo, a key figure in the anti-apartheid struggle. Over the decades, it has grown into a world-class hub, connecting Johannesburg to major cities in Europe, Asia, the Americas, and the Middle East.

• How to get there: Located 22 km from central Johannesburg. Easily accessible via Gautrain, taxis, Uber, shuttle services, or private vehicles.
• Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng Province.
• Capacity: Handles over 20 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: Hub of South African Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, Ethiopian Airlines.
• Year of foundation: 1952 (originally Jan Smuts Airport).
• Key services: Six terminals, VIP lounges, InterContinental Hotel, duty-free shopping, restaurants, medical facilities, car rentals.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Modernized terminals with African art installations and sculptures.
• Terminal A and B feature open-plan layouts and spacious boarding areas.
• Continuous upgrades to check-in halls, security, and baggage handling.

Future expansion projects:

• Plans to expand capacity to 30 million passengers per year.
• New cargo terminals and upgraded runways to support heavy international traffic.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Highly rated on Skytrax for lounges, connectivity, and staff service.
• Known for efficient transfers, although peak times can be busy.

Technical data:

• 2 runways; main runway 4,400 meters.
• 6 terminals with multiple concourses.

Economic & cultural impact:

• Vital for southern Africa’s trade, tourism, and air cargo operations.
• Serves as a gateway for international visitors and diaspora traffic.

Fun facts:

• Concorde flights stopped here in the 1970s.
• Control tower is one of the tallest in the world.
• African art is displayed throughout the terminals.

2. Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town, South Africa)

Cape Town International Airport is a tourist-focused gateway and a symbol of South Africa’s modern aviation infrastructure. Known for its efficiency, design, and scenic views, it has become one of the most passenger-friendly airports in Africa.

• How to get there: 20 km from Cape Town city center; accessible via MyCiTi bus, taxis, Uber, or rental cars.
• Location: Matroosfontein, Western Cape.
• Capacity: Over 10 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, KLM, FlySafair.
• Year of foundation: 1954.
• Key services: Lounges, restaurants with Table Mountain views, shopping, car rentals, VIP services.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Terminal design inspired by Cape natural landscapes with glass and steel structures.
• Renovations improved boarding gates, check-in areas, and passenger flow.

Future expansion projects:

• Expected to reach 13 million passengers by 2030.
• Incorporating green energy solutions and sustainable water systems.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Frequently awarded Best Regional Airport in Africa (ACI).
• Travelers appreciate punctuality, cleanliness, and scenic surroundings.

Technical data:

• 2 runways; main runway 3,600 meters.
• 1 terminal building with multiple concourses.

Economic & cultural impact:

• Supports tourism in wine regions, the Garden Route, and Table Mountain.
• Generates employment in transport, hospitality, and retail.

Fun facts:

• Table Mountain can be seen from the terminal.
• Advanced water recycling system reduces environmental impact.

3. Cairo International Airport (Cairo, Egypt)

Cairo International Airport is North Africa’s largest airport and a key hub linking Egypt to the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. Opened in 1963, it has evolved from a regional airport into a major international gateway, supporting both tourism and commerce.

• How to get there: 22 km northeast of downtown Cairo; accessible by taxi, Uber, shuttle, and soon a metro line.
• Location: Heliopolis, Cairo Governorate.
• Capacity: Over 17 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: Hub of EgyptAir, plus Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, Saudia.
• Year of foundation: 1963.
• Key services: Three terminals, VIP lounges, hotels, duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Terminal 3 features modern glass and steel architecture and improved security systems.
• Renovations include expanded check-in areas and boarding gates for international traffic.

Future expansion projects:

• Terminal 3 expansion to support 25 million passengers by 2030.
• Upgrades to cargo facilities for Red Sea and Mediterranean trade routes.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Rated highly for connectivity and efficiency on Skytrax.
• Some congestion during peak hours, but generally smooth transfer experience.

Technical data:

• 3 runways; main runway 3,600 meters.
• 3 main terminals and multiple concourses.

Economic & cultural impact:

• Gateway to Egypt’s tourist destinations: Pyramids, Luxor, Sharm El Sheikh.
• Supports commerce and international business connections.

Fun facts:

• Originally a military base before civilian use.
• Terminal 3 handles the majority of charter flights for European tourists.

4. Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)

Bole International Airport is Ethiopia’s aviation hub and the centerpiece of Ethiopian Airlines’ international network. Since its establishment in 1962, it has grown into one of Africa’s fastest-growing airports, connecting the continent to over 120 international destinations.

• How to get there: 6 km from Addis Ababa city center; taxi, shuttle, or ride-hailing apps.
• Location: Bole District, Addis Ababa.
• Capacity: Over 22 million passengers annually after expansions.
• Airlines: Hub for Ethiopian Airlines, plus Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa.
• Year of foundation: 1962.
• Key services: Modern Terminal 2, lounges, shopping, medical centers, hotels nearby.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Terminal 2 is modern with African-inspired motifs, spacious check-in areas, and advanced security systems.
• Recent renovations added more boarding gates and enhanced cargo handling.

Future expansion projects:

• Expansion plans to increase capacity to 35 million passengers annually.
• Upgrades for large aircraft such as A380s and improved runway infrastructure.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Skytrax praises connectivity, efficiency, and cleanliness.
• Travelers appreciate short transfer times despite high traffic.

Technical data:

• 2 runways; main runway 3,800 meters.
• 2 passenger terminals and large cargo facilities.

Economic & cultural impact:

• Positions Addis Ababa as a key African aviation hub, facilitating trade and tourism across the continent.

Fun facts:

• Over 120 international destinations connected directly.
• Hosts one of Africa’s largest airline training centers.
  
  

5. Mohammed V International Airport (Casablanca, Morocco)

The largest airport in Morocco and a major gateway between Africa, Europe, and North America, Mohammed V International Airport has grown far beyond its early military beginnings. Originally constructed in the 1940s as a military airbase, it transitioned into a civilian airport and later became the hub for Royal Air Maroc, Morocco’s flagship airline. Over the decades, it has transformed into a modern international airport that handles millions of travelers each year.

• How to get there: 30 km from central Casablanca. A direct train link connects the airport to Casa Voyageurs station, plus taxis and private car options.
• Location: Nouaceur, Greater Casablanca.
• Capacity: Over 10 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: Royal Air Maroc, Air France, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Iberia.
• Year of foundation: 1943 (military base), later converted to civilian use.
• Key services: Modern terminals, VIP lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, car rentals, and hotel access.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Terminals combine modern international airport functionality with Moroccan architectural motifs, creating a visually appealing travel experience.
• Recent renovations have improved immigration efficiency and passenger flow.

Future expansion projects:

• Plans to increase capacity to 15–18 million passengers annually.
• Adding new concourses and expanding cargo handling capabilities.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Praised by travelers for efficiency and cleanliness.
• Ranked among Africa’s top airports by ACI for passenger satisfaction.

Technical data:

• 2 runways; main runway 3,720 meters.
• 2 main passenger terminals with multiple gates.

Economic & cultural impact:

• Essential for Morocco’s trade, tourism, and international business, linking Casablanca with major global hubs.

Fun facts:

• Named after King Mohammed V, revered in Moroccan history.
• Major gateway for flights to North America and Europe.

6. Marrakech Menara Airport (Marrakech, Morocco)

Marrakech Menara Airport is the primary entry point for travelers visiting Morocco’s cultural jewel, blending traditional Moroccan architecture with modern aviation infrastructure. Originally built as a military airbase in the 1940s, it has since evolved into a welcoming international hub for millions of tourists every year.

• How to get there: Only 6 km from Marrakech city center; accessible via taxi, shuttle buses, and private cars.
• Location: Menara, Marrakech.
• Capacity: Around 5 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: Ryanair, EasyJet, Transavia, Royal Air Maroc, Qatar Airways.
• Year of foundation: 1940s.
• Key services: Duty-free shopping, lounges, restaurants, shuttle services, and car rentals.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Terminal design fuses modern glass and steel with traditional Moroccan patterns and motifs.
• Recent renovations enhanced security, check-in efficiency, and boarding gates.

Future expansion projects:

• Plans to increase capacity to 7–8 million passengers per year.
• Introducing smart boarding systems and sustainable energy solutions.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Travelers praise ease of navigation and cultural aesthetics.
• Recognized by ACI as a top regional airport for passenger experience.

Technical data:

• 1 runway; length 3,200 meters.
• 1 main terminal with multiple boarding gates.

Economic & cultural impact:

• Critical for Morocco’s tourism industry, feeding the hotel, tour, and hospitality sectors in Marrakech.

Fun facts:

• Terminal is renowned for Islamic-inspired artwork and patterns.
• Featured in several films showcasing Moroccan culture.

7. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi, Kenya)

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the busiest airport in East Africa and a crucial hub for both passenger travel and cargo. Originally opened as Embakasi Airport in 1958, it was renamed in honor of Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta, reflecting its national significance. The airport has grown steadily over the years, balancing international connectivity with domestic travel needs.

• How to get there: 15 km from Nairobi’s city center; served by taxis, ride-hailing apps, and the Nairobi Expressway.
• Location: Embakasi, Nairobi.
• Capacity: Around 7.5 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: Kenya Airways (hub), Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, KLM, Ethiopian Airlines.
• Year of foundation: 1958 (Embakasi Airport).
• Key services: Lounges, duty-free, restaurants, hotel access, conference facilities.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Terminal design is modern, spacious, and designed for efficient passenger flow.
• Ongoing upgrades include Terminal 1A expansion for international flights.

Future expansion projects:

• Plans to expand Terminal 1 and 2 to accommodate 15 million passengers.
• Introducing automated check-in and smart security systems.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Ranked among Africa’s top airports by Skytrax for efficiency and connectivity.
• Positive reviews highlight friendly staff and smooth transfer processes.

Technical data:

• 2 runways; main runway 4,100 meters.
• 2 main terminals with multiple concourses.

Economic & cultural impact:

• Vital for Kenya’s tourism and trade, connecting safari destinations and business hubs across Africa.

Fun facts:

• Key hub for UN and NGO flights across Africa.
• Named after Kenya’s independence leader, Jomo Kenyatta.

8. King Shaka International Airport (Durban, South Africa)

Opened in 2010 ahead of the FIFA World Cup, King Shaka International Airport is modern, spacious, and technologically advanced, serving South Africa’s east coast.

• How to get there: 35 km north of Durban; accessible via shuttle, taxi, or rental car.
• Location: La Mercy, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Capacity: Approximately 7 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, FlySafair, Mango, Airlink.
• Year of foundation: 2010.
• Key services: Lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, cargo facilities, car rentals.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Terminal is modern, with open-plan spaces and natural light.
• Designed to handle future passenger growth efficiently.

Future expansion projects:

• Plans to increase capacity to 10 million passengers.
• Expansion of cargo facilities and parking areas.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Known for ease of navigation and modern amenities.
• Highly rated for domestic connections in South Africa.

Technical data:

• 1 runway; length 3,700 meters.
• 1 main terminal with multiple gates.

Economic & cultural impact:

• Key for tourism and trade along the eastern seaboard, including the port city of Durban.

Fun facts:

• Named after Zulu King Shaka, founder of the Zulu nation.
• Built in record time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

9. Kotoka International Airport (Accra, Ghana)

Kotoka International Airport is Ghana’s principal airport and a rising hub in West Africa. It was originally opened in 1958 and has undergone major modernization with Terminal 3, which now accommodates international and domestic flights efficiently.

• How to get there: 9 km from Accra; taxis, Uber, and hotel shuttles.
• Location: Accra, Greater Accra Region.
• Capacity: Around 5 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: Africa World Airlines, Emirates, KLM, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Delta Airlines.
• Year of foundation: 1958.
• Key services: Modern lounges, duty-free, dining, car rentals, conference facilities.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Terminal 3 is modern and spacious, designed for smooth passenger flow and international standards.
• Renovated check-in and boarding areas for faster service.

Future expansion projects:

• Plans to expand Terminal 3 capacity to 8 million passengers.
• Upgrade cargo facilities to boost trade in West Africa.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Skytrax highlights modern design and cleanliness.
• Travelers appreciate short wait times and efficient customs processes.

Technical data:

• 2 runways; main runway 3,400 meters.
• 2 terminals (new Terminal 3 for international flights).

Economic & cultural impact:

• Central for West African tourism, business, and trade.
• Gateway for Ghanaian diaspora and regional flights.

Fun facts:

• Named after Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kotoka, a national figure.
• Recognized as one of West Africa’s most modern airports.

10. Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt)

Sharm El Sheikh Airport is the gateway to Egypt’s Red Sea resorts, heavily focused on tourism and seasonal international flights.

• How to get there: 18 km from Sharm El Sheikh center; taxis and hotel transfers.
• Location: South Sinai, Egypt.
• Capacity: Around 10 million passengers annually.
• Airlines: EgyptAir, Turkish Airlines, EasyJet, TUI, European charter airlines.
• Year of foundation: 1960s; major expansion in 2007.
• Key services: Lounges, duty-free, dining, tourist-focused amenities.

Architectural design & renovations:

• Terminal modernized for high tourist traffic.
• Renovations added new lounges and check-in areas.

Future expansion projects:

• Plans to expand capacity to 15 million passengers.
• Introduce advanced baggage handling and smart security systems.

Traveler reviews & rankings:

• Popular for tourist convenience, though seasonal peaks can be busy.
• Ranked well in ACI reports for Middle East and North Africa regional airports.

Technical data:

• 2 runways; main runway 3,300 meters.
• 1 terminal with multiple gates.

Economic & cultural impact:

• Critical for Egypt’s resort tourism, bringing millions of European and Middle Eastern tourists.

Fun facts:

• Hosts flights from over 40 countries.
• Directly supports Sharm El Sheikh’s luxury hotel industry.