Overview
Banjul International Airport is the only international airport in The Gambia. It is located in Yundum, approximately 25 kilometers from the capital city, Banjul. The airport serves as the main gateway to the country, welcoming visitors from around the world.
Originally built as a military airfield in the 1940s, Banjul International Airport has since been upgraded and expanded to accommodate commercial flights. The airport currently has a single terminal building with two levels – Arrivals on the ground floor and Departures on the upper floor.
Banjul International Airport operates flights to and from destinations in Europe, West Africa, and other parts of the world. Airlines such as Air Peace, Brussels Airlines, and Royal Air Maroc operate regular flights to and from the airport.
The airport has a range of facilities for passengers, including restaurants, duty-free shops, banking and currency exchange services, and car rental services. There is also a VIP lounge available for passengers who require a more exclusive and comfortable experience.
Banjul International Airport plays a significant role in the economy of The Gambia, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the growth of the tourism industry. The airport continues to be a key infrastructure project for the country, with plans for further expansion and development in the coming years.
Terminals at Banjul International Airport
Banjul International Airport has only one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal is divided into two floors, with the ground floor used for arrivals and the first-floor catering to departures.
Upon arrival, passengers proceed through immigration and customs processes before accessing the baggage reclaim area. The airport has a limited number of baggage carousels, which can result in delays during peak periods. However, the airport authorities are working to improve this by installing new equipment and expanding the baggage reclaim area.
The departures level of the terminal has several check-in counters, a duty-free shop, a cafe, and a restaurant. There are also a few souvenir shops selling local crafts and products. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure to allow sufficient time for check-in and security checks.
The departure lounge offers basic amenities such as seating, charging points, and toilets. However, it can get crowded during peak periods, and there are limited options for food and drinks. Passengers are advised to bring their snacks or purchase them before entering the departure lounge.
Banjul International Airport is relatively small compared to other international airports, and the terminal building reflects this. The facilities are basic, but clean and functional. The airport authorities are continuously improving the facilities to meet the needs of travelers and provide a comfortable experience.
In conclusion, Banjul International Airport has only one terminal building, serving both domestic and international flights. The terminal is divided into two floors, with basic facilities such as a cafe, restaurant, and duty-free shop. The airport authorities are continuously upgrading the facilities to provide a comfortable experience for travelers.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Banjul International Airport:
– Air Peace (Lagos)
– ASKY Airlines (Conakry, Dakar, Lagos)
– Brussels Airlines (Brussels)
– Corendon Airlines (Antalya)
– Gambia Bird (Accra, Barcelona, Conakry, Dakar, Freetown, Lagos, London-Gatwick)
– Royal Air Maroc (Casablanca)
– Thomas Cook Airlines (Manchester, London-Gatwick)
– TUI Airways (Birmingham, Bristol, London-Gatwick, Manchester)
Domestic routes are available to various cities within The Gambia, including Basse Santa Su, Kerewan, and Yundum. International destinations include cities in Europe, Africa, and Turkey.
Some airlines may have seasonal changes to their schedules, so it’s important to check with the airline directly or with a travel agent for up-to-date information. Additionally, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some airlines may have temporarily suspended certain routes or reduced their frequency, so travelers should confirm their flight status before departing for the airport.
Transportation Options at Banjul International Airport
Banjul International Airport serves as the gateway to Gambia and is located just 25 kilometers from the capital, Banjul. There are several transportation options available to passengers arriving at the airport.
One of the most popular transportation options is the shuttle service. Many hotels and resorts in the area offer shuttle services to their guests upon arrival, so it’s worth checking with your hotel before your trip. Some shuttles may require prior booking, while others run on a regular schedule.
Car rental services are also available at the airport. Several international car rental companies have offices at Banjul International Airport, including Avis, Europcar, and Hertz. You can easily rent a car at the airport to explore the Gambia at your own pace.
For those traveling on a budget, there are shuttle buses that run between the airport and major cities, such as Banjul and Bakau. These shuttle buses are operated by various companies and offer an affordable way to travel in the area.
Alternatively, you can also take a train from the airport to Banjul. The Gambia Railway Corporation operates train services between Banjul and other major towns in the country. The train runs twice a week and is a great way to experience the Gambian countryside.
In summary, Banjul International Airport offers several transportation options for travelers arriving in Gambia. Whether you prefer the convenience of a shuttle service or the flexibility of a car rental, there’s something for everyone. So, plan your trip accordingly and choose the transportation option that suits your needs.
Parking at Banjul International Airport
For those traveling from Banjul International Airport and planning to park a vehicle, there are a few options available. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options. Short-term parking is available for those who will be at the airport for a shorter period of time, such as those picking up or dropping off passengers.
Long-term parking is ideal for those who will be away for an extended period of time. There are several parking lots available on-site, with rates ranging from GMD 150 per day for short-term parking to GMD 1300 per week for long-term parking.
In addition to on-site parking lots, there are also off-site parking options that offer shuttle services to and from the airport. These off-site parking lots typically offer lower rates than on-site lots, but travelers should be aware of the location and reliability of the shuttle service before choosing this option.
Overall, Banjul International Airport offers several convenient parking options for travelers. It’s recommended to book parking in advance to secure a spot and avoid any last-minute stress.
Check-In Procedures
At Banjul International Airport, there are three main ways to check-in for your flight. The first option is to check-in online, which allows you to select your seats and print your boarding pass before arriving at the airport. This can save time and reduce stress on the day of your flight.
The second option is self-service check-in kiosks located within the airport terminal. These kiosks allow you to check-in for your flight, select your seats, and print your boarding pass.
The third option is the traditional check-in desk, where you will be assisted by a customer service representative. You will need to present your passport and airline ticket, and your luggage will be weighed and tagged for the flight.
Regardless of the check-in method you choose, it is important to arrive at the airport with enough time to complete the process and clear security. It is recommended that you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time.
After completing check-in, you will proceed to security screening. Be sure to have your boarding pass and identification ready to present to the TSA agent. Once through security, you will proceed to your gate and wait for boarding to begin.
It is important to be aware of any luggage restrictions or prohibited items before packing for your trip. This information can be found on the airline’s website or by contacting their customer service department.
Security: Procedures and Tips at Banjul International Airport
Security at Banjul International Airport is taken very seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers. Passengers are required to pass through security checks before boarding their flights.
To make the security check process smoother, it is advisable to arrive at the airport early and have all necessary documents ready for inspection. Additionally, packing liquids, gels, and aerosols in a clear plastic bag and removing laptops and electronic devices from their cases can help speed up the process.
Passengers should also be aware of items that are prohibited on flights such as weapons, sharp objects, and flammable materials. These items will be confiscated at the security checkpoint and may delay the passenger’s journey.
Overall, by following these simple tips and cooperating with airport security personnel, passengers can make their security check experience at Banjul International Airport quick and hassle-free.
Customs and Immigration at Banjul International Airport
Arriving passengers are required to complete an immigration card before proceeding to the immigration area. The passport is then checked, and fingerprints and a photograph are taken if necessary.
Baggage is collected and inspected by customs officials before being released to passengers. All personal belongings must be declared, especially items that exceed duty-free allowances or are prohibited.
Departing passengers must check in with their airline before proceeding to the immigration area. The immigration process is similar to that for arriving passengers, with passports and travel documents being checked before boarding passes are issued.
All luggage is inspected by customs officials and must go through an x-ray machine. Prohibited items are held, and any applicable taxes or duties must be paid before departing.
Amenities
– Shops and Duty-Free stores offering souvenirs, clothing, cosmetics, and snacks.
– Restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can enjoy a meal or drink before or after your flight.
– Banking services including ATMs and currency exchange offices.
– Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport for all passengers.
– Meeting facilities for business travelers including conference rooms and VIP lounges.
– Accessibility features such as wheelchair ramps and assistance for passengers with special needs.
– Luggage storage and wrapping services for your convenience.
Banjul International Airport offers a variety of amenities to ensure that your travel experience is comfortable and stress-free. Whether you need to grab a snack, get some work done, or relax before your flight, there are plenty of options available at the airport. Plus, with accessibility features and helpful staff, all passengers can feel welcome and supported during their time at the airport.
Accessibility Services
Banjul International Airport provides facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
The airport offers wheelchair assistance and ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces for disabled passengers.
Passengers with visual or hearing impairments can also request special assistance, including the provision of Braille signage and audio announcements.
To avail of these services, passengers are advised to inform their airline in advance or contact the airport’s customer service desk upon arrival.
Connecting flights at Banjul International Airport
When connecting through Banjul International Airport, it is essential to give yourself enough time to switch terminals and get to your next flight.
Upon arrival, follow the signs to “Transit” and proceed to the Transit Desk for assistance with your connection. Be sure to have all necessary documents and tickets readily available.
If you have a long layover, consider taking a meal break at one of the restaurants or cafes in the airport. Just be sure to keep an eye on the time and plan to arrive at your terminal at least 30 minutes before your next flight.
It is also important to know the gate number and boarding time for your connecting flight, which can be found on your boarding pass or by checking the airport monitors.
Overall, staying organized and allowing yourself enough time between flights can make the process of connecting at Banjul International Airport smooth and stress-free.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Banjul International Airport, passengers are directed to the baggage claim area to retrieve their luggage.
Passengers should check the baggage tags for accuracy before leaving the claim area.
If a passenger’s luggage is lost or damaged, they should report it to the airline’s representative at the airport immediately.
The representative will provide a form to fill out that details the missing or damaged items.
Passengers should keep a copy of the form and their baggage claim ticket for future reference.
If the luggage is found, the airline will contact the passenger to arrange for its return.
In the event that the luggage is not found, the airline will compensate the passenger up to a certain limit.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of emergencies, Banjul International Airport has a dedicated team of medical professionals available round-the-clock to provide assistance. The airport also has an advanced medical facility equipped with all the necessary equipment and staff to handle any medical emergency.
In addition, the airport also has a well-equipped emergency response team that is trained to handle emergencies such as fires, aircraft accidents, and other incidents. The airport’s emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire trucks, are always on standby in case of any emergencies.
Passengers who require medical assistance or have any medical condition are advised to inform the airline prior to the flight. The airline will then make the necessary arrangements to ensure that the passenger receives the required medical attention during the flight and after landing.
Overall, Banjul International Airport is well-equipped to handle any medical emergency and has the necessary facilities and personnel to ensure the safety and well-being of its passengers.
Hotel Accommodations
If you are looking for a comfortable stay near Banjul International Airport, there are numerous hotel options available within easy reach of the airport. These hotels offer a range of amenities and services to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
Some popular hotels near the airport include the Ocean Bay Hotel and Resort, located just 5 minutes away, the Coral Beach Hotel and Spa, located 10 minutes away, the Senegambia Beach Hotel, located 15 minutes away, the Kairaba Beach Hotel, located 20 minutes away, and the Coco Ocean Resort and Spa, located 25 minutes away.
All of these hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport, as well as a range of dining options, swimming pools, and other facilities. Whether you are visiting Banjul for business or pleasure, these hotels can provide you with a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the area.
Handy Tips for Smooth Navigation of Banjul International Airport
As a traveler using Banjul International Airport, there are some tips that you cannot afford to miss.
Firstly, plan your itinerary and pack your luggage early enough to avoid last-minute rushes and confusions.
Ensure that you have all the necessary documents such as passports and visas.
You can also pre-book your airport transfers online to avoid being inconvenienced on arrival.
Carry some cash with you as most shops and vendors may not accept credit cards.
Additionally, be aware of the customs regulations and avoid carrying prohibited items.
Lastly, make sure to reach the airport at least two hours before departure time to go through all the security procedures and relax before boarding your flight.
Contact Information
Airport Information Desk: +220 202 4944 / [email protected]
Lost and Found: +220 202 4944 / [email protected]
Airport Police: +220 447 0453
Immigration Office: +220 447 0441
Customs Office: +220 447 0446
Airport Health Service: +220 447 1059 / [email protected]
Airport Clinic: +220 447 1060 / [email protected]
Airports Near Banjul International Airport
If you’re flying in or out of Banjul, there are a few other airports in the area worth considering. Here are some details:
- Serekunda Airport: Located just 8 miles from Banjul International, Serekunda is the closest airport and offers domestic flights to other parts of The Gambia. It’s easily accessible by taxi or bus.
- Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport: If you’re willing to venture outside of The Gambia, Dakar’s airport is a good option. It’s about 125 miles north of Banjul and offers international flights to many destinations. You can take a private car, taxi or bus to reach it.
- Ziguinchor Airport: Located in Senegal’s Casamance region, Ziguinchor is about 60 miles south of Banjul. It offers domestic flights and some international connections, but is a bit farther away than Dakar. You can take a private car, taxi or bus to reach it.
Keep in mind that transportation times and costs may vary depending on traffic and availability. Be sure to plan ahead and leave plenty of time to reach your connecting flight if you decide to fly into or out of one of these airports.