Illizi Airport

Illizi Airport, also known as Takhamalt, is not merely a transport hub but a true aerial gateway to the mysterious world of the Sahara. For many travellers, this runway marks the beginning of their acquaintance with Martian landscapes and the ancient rock art of the Tassili n'Ajjer plateau. This modern aviation facility surprisingly combines the latest service technologies with the unique atmosphere of desert tranquillity, offering guests a comfortable start to their expedition.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Illizi Airport stands out favourably due to its architecture, which was updated during a large-scale reconstruction. The terminal building is designed with elements resembling traditional desert tents, allowing it to blend organically into the surrounding landscape and creating the right mood for arriving tourists from the very first minutes.

An undoubted advantage is its location. The airport is located just a few minutes' drive from the city centre, saving travellers from long and tiring transfers after their flight. The compactness of the terminal guarantees a quick completion of all formalities: very little time passes from baggage claim to exiting into the city.

Despite its distance from the capital, the airport is equipped with a modern runway 3,000 metres long, capable of accommodating large airliners. This makes it a reliable link, ensuring stable communication between the region and the north of the country, and opening access to the unique natural treasures of the national park.

Below is the main contact information for Takhamalt Airport in the city of Illizi. Please note that this is a regional airport, and some data may only be available through the management company.

• Official Website: Illizi Airport is managed by EGSA Constantine. Official information is usually published on the management company's website: www.egsa-constantine.dz.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +213 29 41 81 18. It is recommended to verify the number before calling.
• Airport Address: Aéroport Takhamalt, Illizi, Algérie.
• Email: There is no specialized email address for general public access. For communication, it is recommended to use the telephone or contact forms on the management company's website.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own official pages on social networks. News and updates can be tracked on resources dedicated to aviation in Algeria.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of luggage problems, first contact your airline's representative counter at the airport. Additional information can be obtained at the information desk.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For inquiries and on-site assistance, please contact the information desk in the airport terminal or call the general phone number.

Getting to Illizi Airport (VVZ), located near the city of Illizi in the very heart of Algeria, is quite simple. Despite the remote location, transport links with the city are established, although they have their own specificities. The main methods are taxi, transfer, or rental car. The travel time from the city centre usually does not exceed 10-15 minutes.

Taxi and Private Transfer are the most convenient and common options. The cost of the trip is moderate, but it is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance, as taximeters are rarely used. for greater peace of mind, you can book a transfer through your hotel or tour operator. This is especially convenient if you have a night flight or a lot of luggage.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for independent travellers planning to explore the region, including the famous Tassili n'Ajjer National Park. Local rental companies operate in the city of Illizi. It is advisable to book a car well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. To rent, you will likely need an International Driving Permit. Consider the specifics of driving in desert terrain when choosing a vehicle.

Public Transport in the form of regular buses or trains does not run to the airport. Theoretically, you can use the services of collective taxis (shared taxis) that depart as they fill up, but this is not the most reliable method if you are limited in time. This option is more suitable for budget travellers without large luggage.

There is parking on the territory of Illizi Airport. It is a simple open lot where you can leave a car for both a short and a long time. This is a convenient solution if you arrive in your own or a rented car. The cost of parking is generally low.

The Illizi Airport (VVZ), serving the city of the same name in Algeria, is a compact and easy-to-navigate aviation hub. Its infrastructure is designed to effectively serve passengers on regional routes.

The airport structure includes one passenger terminal, which simultaneously serves as the departure and arrival zone. Thanks to this, passengers do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings. The terminal layout is extremely simple: check-in counters are located at the entrance, followed by a security checkpoint leading to a small waiting hall before the boarding gate. The arrival zone with a baggage claim belt is located in the same part of the building but has a separate exit.

Going through pre-flight procedures at Illizi Airport usually does not take much time. The check-in and screening process generally proceeds quickly and without long queues. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance — approximately 1.5-2 hours before the flight departure. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage and complete all formalities without haste. For navigation, it is enough to follow the standard signs, which are clearly visible and intuitive even for those here for the first time.

The Illizi Airport (VVZ), also known as Takhamalt, is not just an air gateway to the city of the same name, but a key transport hub for all of south-eastern Algeria. Its history is inextricably linked with the exploration of the Sahara Desert and the development of tourism in one of the most mysterious regions of the world. Located amidst endless sands, it serves as a starting point for travellers eager to see the prehistoric rock art of the Tassili n'Ajjer National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The exact date of the airfield's founding in Illizi is lost in history, but its appearance was dictated by urgent necessity. Initially, it was likely a simple airstrip providing a link to the isolated oasis and supporting the administrative and economic needs of the region. For decades, the airport functioned as a modest regional facility, serving mainly domestic flights and special charters.

Cardinal changes occurred in the 2010s when the government of Algeria launched a programme to modernize southern airports. Illizi Airport underwent a massive reconstruction, which effectively gave it a second life. A completely new passenger terminal, a modern control tower, and a new runway 3,000 metres long were built. This allowed for the reception of larger aircraft and significantly improved the quality of passenger service. The grand opening of the renovated airport took place in 2014, becoming an important milestone in the region's history.

Today, Illizi Airport is a modern complex that successfully fulfils the role of a bridge between civilization and the ancient desert. Its main achievement is not passenger traffic records, but ensuring stable and safe access to remote territories. For tourists, it is the start of an amazing adventure, and for locals, it is a vital artery connecting them with the rest of the country. The airport's history is a clear example of how modern technology helps preserve and open unique cultural and natural heritage to the world.

The Takhamalt Illizi Airport (VVZ) is a regional air terminal serving primarily domestic flights in Algeria. Given its size, the range of services and amenities is basic and focused on meeting the essential needs of passengers before departure. Here you will find everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight, but without the excesses of major international hubs.

In the terminal building, the choice of dining establishments and shops is limited. Typically, a small café or buffet operates for passengers, where one can buy beverages, light snacks, and sandwiches. Specialized restaurants and duty-free shops are absent, so it is better to plan major purchases in the city in advance.

The main waiting area is a general hall with sufficient seating. VIP halls or lounges of increased comfort are generally not provided at Illizi Airport. Access to Wi-Fi may be limited or absent, and the number of charging stations for electronic devices is small, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank.

Financial services at the airport are minimal. There may not be bank branches or full-fledged currency exchange points here, so it is advisable to ensure you have local currency (Algerian dinars) in advance. There is a medical point on the premises for first aid. Basic facilities are provided for passengers with reduced mobility; however, it is recommended to inform the airline of the need for special assistance at least 48 hours before departure.

Specialized services, such as play areas for children, mother and child rooms, business centres, or conference halls, are absent at the airport. There are no hotels directly on the terminal premises. The nearest accommodation options should be sought in the city of Illizi, which can be reached by taxi.

When planning a trip through Illizi Airport (VVZ), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest. It is oriented towards meeting the basic needs of passengers waiting for their flights.

In the airport's single terminal, you will likely find one or two small cafeterias or snack bars rather than full-service restaurants. Usually, they are located in the general hall before security control (landside), and sometimes a small kiosk may operate in the departure zone (airside).

The assortment in such establishments typically includes:

• Hot and cold beverages: coffee, traditional mint tea, bottled water, sodas.
• Quick snacks: sandwiches, pastries, croissants, chips, and nuts.
• Sweets: biscuits or local confectionery.

Finding a full hot meal here is unlikely. Regarding special dietary needs, it is worth noting that all food will likely comply with Halal standards, which is the norm for Algeria. However, specialized vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes are unlikely to be available. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Café opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, and they may be closed during quiet periods.

Travelling through the airport of the city of Illizi, which serves as a gateway to the amazing Sahara Desert in Algeria, can be a simple and pleasant start to your adventure if you prepare in advance. Here are a few tips to help you orient yourself in the airport and avoid unnecessary hassle.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Illizi Airport is not among the giant hubs, but arriving early is still worthwhile. We recommend arriving 2 hours before a domestic flight departure and 2.5-3 hours before an international one. This will give you enough time to calmly go through check-in and security control. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides such an option.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If you are flying into or out of Illizi during the day, choose a window seat. You may be treated to stunning views of the endless sands of the Sahara. Regarding hand luggage, standard international rules apply: liquids in containers up to 100 ml (packed in a transparent bag), and no sharp objects. Check the weight and dimension limits for hand luggage on your carrier's website in advance to avoid extra charges.

Customs Control and Transfers. When entering the country, be prepared to declare large sums of currency or valuable items. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. In small airports, navigation is usually simple, but it is always useful to have a plan of action.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security control, and some light snacks. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Find out about your rights regarding the provision of beverages, meals, or hotel accommodation depending on the length of the delay. Having travel insurance can also significantly simplify the resolution of such issues.