History
Kano International Airport, originally established in the 1930s, has grown from a small airfield to become one of Nigeria's busiest airports. The airport has undergone several major renovations, with the most recent expansion completed in 2019, making it a modern facility capable of handling both domestic and international flights.
The airport serves as a crucial link between Northern Nigeria and the rest of the world, particularly for religious tourism to Saudi Arabia and business travel to other African countries.
Terminals
International Terminal
The international terminal is a modern facility that handles all international flights. It features:
- State-of-the-art check-in counters and self-service kiosks
- Duty-free shopping areas
- International restaurants and cafes
- Business lounges
- Currency exchange services
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Medical facilities
- Hajj and Umrah services
Domestic Terminal
The domestic terminal serves all domestic flights and includes:
- Efficient check-in areas
- Food courts and retail shops
- Business center
- Prayer rooms
- Baggage claim areas
- VIP lounges
Airlines & Destinations
International Airlines
Major international carriers operating from KAN include:
- Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa)
- Turkish Airlines (Istanbul)
- EgyptAir (Cairo)
- Sudan Airways (Khartoum)
- Air Arabia (Sharjah)
Domestic Airlines
Key domestic carriers include:
- Air Peace
- Arik Air
- Max Air
- United Nigeria Airlines
- Dana Air
Transport Connections
Road Transport
The airport is well-connected to Kano city center and surrounding areas through various transport options:
- Taxis: Official airport taxis are available 24/7. Fixed rates apply for different destinations.
- Ride-hailing: Uber and Bolt operate at the airport.
- Car Rental: Several car rental companies have desks at the airport.
- Public Transport: Buses and minibuses connect the airport to various parts of Kano.
Parking
Both terminals have short-term and long-term parking facilities. Rates vary by duration, with special rates for long-term parking.
Facilities & Services
- Banking: Multiple ATMs and bank branches available
- Currency Exchange: Several exchange bureaus in both terminals
- Medical Services: 24/7 medical center and pharmacy
- Prayer Rooms: Available in both terminals
- Business Services: Conference rooms and business centers
- Wi-Fi: Free internet access throughout the terminals
- Lost & Found: Located in the terminal buildings
- VIP Services: Special handling for VIP passengers
- Hajj & Umrah Services: Special facilities for religious travelers
Travel Tips
- Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights
- Keep your travel documents and valuables secure at all times
- Use official airport transport services
- Be aware of current COVID-19 requirements and restrictions
- Check with your airline for specific baggage allowances
- Consider purchasing travel insurance before your trip
- Book airport transport in advance during peak travel periods
- Be prepared for potential weather-related delays during the harmattan season