History
Maiduguri International Airport, established in the 1960s, has grown from a small airfield to a modern international airport. The airport underwent significant expansion in 2019, including the construction of a new international terminal and improved runway facilities.
The airport serves as a crucial link between North-East Nigeria and other regions, particularly for business travelers, government officials, and tourists visiting the region's rich cultural heritage sites.
Terminals
International Terminal
The modern international terminal features:
- International check-in counters
- Customs and immigration facilities
- Duty-free shopping
- International lounges
- Currency exchange services
Domestic Terminal
The domestic terminal includes:
- Efficient check-in counters and self-service kiosks
- Comfortable waiting areas
- Food courts and retail shops
- Business center
- Prayer rooms
- Baggage claim areas
- VIP lounges
- Free Wi-Fi access
Airlines & Destinations
International Airlines
International carriers operating from MIU include:
- Ethiopian Airlines
- Turkish Airlines
- EgyptAir
Domestic Airlines
Key domestic carriers operating from MIU include:
- Air Peace
- Arik Air
- United Nigeria Airlines
- Dana Air
- Ibom Air
Popular Destinations
- Lagos (LOS)
- Abuja (ABV)
- Kano (KAN)
- Kaduna (KAD)
- Port Harcourt (PHC)
Transport Connections
Road Transport
The airport is well-connected to Maiduguri 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 Maiduguri.
Parking
The airport has both 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: Exchange bureaus available
- 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 both terminal buildings
- VIP Services: Special handling for VIP passengers
- Tourism Information: Dedicated desk for tourist information
- Duty-Free Shopping: Available in the international terminal
Travel Tips
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international 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 rainy season
- Plan your visit around major events and festivals in Maiduguri
- Check visa requirements for international travel