Airports in West Africa play a crucial role in connecting the region to the rest of the world. Some handle millions of passengers every year, serving as key hubs for business, tourism, and trade. Expansions and upgrades have turned several into modern aviation centers, equipped to manage high volumes of travelers and aircraft efficiently.
Many of these also accommodate private jet services, offering convenience for those who require faster and more flexible travel. However, commercial flights remain the backbone, handling the majority of passengers and cargo. Their strategic locations make them essential for both domestic and international connections.
Each one on this list stands out due to its size, capacity, and role in regional aviation. Some have been in operation for decades, while others are newer but built for growth.
This article explores the most impressive airports in West Africa.
1. Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) – Lagos, Nigeria
| Location | Lagos, Nigeria |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | 6.8 million |
| Opened | 1979 |
| Runways | 2 |
| Terminals | 2 (International and Domestic) |
Murtala Muhammed International is the busiest airport in Nigeria and one of the largest in West Africa. It serves as a major gateway for international and domestic travel, handling millions of passengers every year. Located in Lagos, the country’s economic hub, it connects Nigeria to key global destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
The airport has undergone several upgrades to improve passenger experience and operational efficiency. Newer facilities have helped manage increasing traffic, while plans for further expansion aim to modernize infrastructure. Despite challenges such as congestion and delays, it remains a vital part of Nigeria’s transportation network.
Airlines and Destinations
Many major airlines operate there, offering direct flights to major cities around the world. Popular routes include London, Dubai, and New York. Regional airlines also use it for flights across West Africa.
2. Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) – Abuja, Nigeria
| Location | Abuja, Nigeria |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | 5.9 million |
| Opened | 1982 |
| Runways | 1 |
| Terminals | 2 (International and Domestic) |
Nnamdi Azikiwe International serves the capital city of Nigeria and is one of the country’s most important aviation hubs. Its location in Abuja makes it a key point for government officials, diplomats, and business travelers.
It provides both international and domestic flights, connecting Nigeria’s capital with major cities worldwide.
Recent improvements have enhanced passenger experience, including the construction of a new terminal with modern facilities.
Growth and Future Plans
Plans for further development focus on improving efficiency and security. The airport aims to become a leading transit hub in West Africa, attracting more international airlines and expanding direct flight options.
3. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) – Plaisance, Mauritius
| Location | Plaisance, Mauritius |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | 3.5 million |
| Opened | 1942 |
| Runways | 1 |
| Terminals | 1 |
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International is the largest and busiest airport in Mauritius. It serves as the main gateway for international visitors arriving on the island. Tourism is a major driver of its traffic, with flights connecting Mauritius to destinations across Africa, Europe, and Asia.
It features modern facilities, including duty-free shops, lounges, and upgraded security systems. Private jet services are also available for high-end travelers seeking exclusive access. Its design reflects the island’s unique culture, providing visitors with a welcoming first impression of Mauritius.
4. Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| Location | Dar es Salaam, Tanzania |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | 2.5 million |
| Opened | 1954 |
| Runways | 1 |
| Terminals | 3 |
Julius Nyerere International is the busiest airport in Tanzania and a major hub for travel in East and West Africa. It connects Dar es Salaam to key international destinations, serving both business and leisure travelers. Its modern infrastructure allows it to handle large passenger volumes efficiently.
A new terminal opened in recent years, improving services and increasing capacity.
Airlines and Connectivity
Several major airlines operate at this place, offering direct flights to cities in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. It remains a crucial link for international travel in the region.
5. Kotoka International Airport (ACC) – Accra, Ghana
| Location | Accra, Ghana |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | 2.5 million |
| Opened | 1958 |
| Runways | 1 |
| Terminals | 3 |
Kotoka International is Ghana’s main airport and a key entry point for international travelers. Located in Accra, it connects the country to major destinations in Africa, Europe, and North America.
It has seen major upgrades in recent years, making it one of the most modern in West Africa.
A new terminal opened in 2018, significantly improving passenger capacity and offering world-class amenities.
It is known for its efficiency and cleanliness, attracting both commercial airlines and private jet services. Its growing reputation has made it a preferred transit point for travelers heading to different parts of Africa.
Expansion and Services
Further expansion plans include improving baggage handling systems and increasing flight capacity. There are also dedicated VIP lounges and premium services, making it a preferred choice for business travelers.
6. Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) – Abidjan, Ivory Coast
| Location | Abidjan, Ivory Coast |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | 2.3 million |
| Opened | 1964 |
| Runways | 1 |
| Terminals | 1 |
Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International is the busiest airport in Ivory Coast and a key hub in West Africa. Located in Abidjan, it serves as the main gateway to the country, handling a mix of international and regional flights. It has undergone major renovations, improving its status as a leading airline spots in the region.
The infrastructure supports both commercial flights and private aviation, making it a preferred choice for high-profile travelers. It plays a crucial role in Ivory Coast’s economy, boosting trade and tourism. Its strategic location makes it an important transit point for flights connecting different parts of Africa.
Airlines and Connectivity
The airport hosts several international airlines with direct flights to major cities like Paris, Dubai, and Johannesburg. Efforts to expand services continue, aiming to increase connectivity with more global destinations.
7. Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) – Dakar, Senegal
| Location | Dakar, Senegal |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | 2.1 million |
| Opened | 2017 |
| Runways | 1 |
| Terminals | 1 |
Blaise Diagne International is Senegal’s largest and most modern airport. Opened in 2017, it replaced Léopold Sédar Senghor International as Dakar’s main gateway. Built with future growth in mind, it has the capacity to handle increasing passenger numbers and larger aircraft.
It offers modern facilities, including improved security systems, spacious terminals, and upgraded baggage handling.
Private jet services are also available, catering to business travelers and high-profile visitors.
Growth and Strategic Importance
Blaise Diagne International is a key transit hub for flights between Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Plans for further expansion aim to increase cargo capacity and attract more international airlines.
8. Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR) – Dakar, Senegal
| Location | Dakar, Senegal |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | 2.1 million |
| Opened | 1944 |
| Runways | 2 |
| Terminals | 1 |
Léopold Sédar Senghor International served as Senegal’s main airport for decades before Blaise Diagne International took over in 2017. It remains operational, mainly handling military and cargo flights. Some private and chartered flights also continue to use its facilities.
It played a major role in connecting West Africa with Europe and the Americas. It contributed significantly to the region’s aviation growth and remains an important backup facility. Though its commercial operations have decreased, it still supports the country’s aviation industry.
Role in Aviation History
For many years, this was a key transit point for flights between Africa and Europe. Even today, it holds historical significance as one of the region’s earliest international airports.
9. Bamako–Sénou International Airport (BKO) – Bamako, Mali
| Location | Bamako, Mali |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | 1.5 million |
| Opened | 1974 |
| Runways | 1 |
| Terminals | 1 |
Bamako–Sénou International is the main airport in Mali, serving as a critical link between the country and the rest of the world. It supports both passenger and cargo operations, playing a key role in the nation’s economy.
Recent improvements have modernized its facilities, improving efficiency for both international and domestic flights. The airport also provides services for private jet travelers, though commercial airlines account for most of its traffic.
FAQs
Final Thoughts
Airports in West Africa are essential for travel, business, and trade. Some have expanded with modern facilities, while others continue to improve operations. More international flights and better services are making travel easier for millions.
Each airport on this list plays a key role in connecting cities across the region and beyond. Some serve as major transit hubs, while others focus on handling cargo and private flights.
