Douala Airport

Douala International Airport (DLA) is not merely an air harbour, but the main gateway to Cameroon and one of the key transport hubs in Central Africa. Located in the country's economic capital, it is the busiest airport in Cameroon, welcoming and seeing off thousands of passengers daily. Journeys to the country's exotic corners and business trips connecting the region with the entire world begin here. The airport plays a crucial role in the life of Douala, facilitating both passenger and cargo transport.

Features and Infrastructure

Douala Airport, serving as the hub for the national carrier Camair-Co, handles flights for numerous international carriers, connecting Cameroon with cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Although the infrastructure may not appear ultra-modern, the airport possesses everything necessary for a comfortable wait. Passengers have access to a premium lounge, cafes and refreshment areas, shops, as well as currency exchange points. For the convenience of travellers, airline representative offices operate within the premises. Transport connections to the city are provided by taxis and buses, allowing you to reach the centre of Douala quite quickly.

Below you will find contact information for Douala International Airport (DLA), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential inquiries.

• Official Website: The main airport operator is Aéroports du Cameroun (ADC). Up-to-date information can be found on their official website: www.adcsa.aero.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +237 233 42 35 26.
• Airport Address: Aéroport International de Douala, BP 3131, Douala, Cameroon.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the address: contact@adcsa.aero.
• Social Media: You can follow news and airport updates on the official pages of Aéroports du Cameroun on social networks, such as Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, it is strongly recommended to contact your airline's representative office at the airport directly first.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and passenger support, please use the main information desk phone number or the airport's email.

Douala International Airport (DLA) is located just 10 kilometres from the city centre, making the journey relatively quick in the absence of traffic jams. You can get from Douala, the largest city and economic capital of Cameroon, to the airport in several ways, the most popular of which are taxis and pre-booked transfers.

Taxi is the most common and convenient way to reach the airport. You will easily recognise official yellow taxis on the city streets. Key point: always agree on the fare with the driver in advance, as meters are rarely used. The estimated cost of a trip from the city centre to the airport ranges from 2,500 to 5,000 XAF depending on the time of day and your negotiation skills. The journey from the city centre usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, but during peak hours it can extend to an hour or more. For greater comfort and a fixed price, you can book a private transfer via your hotel or an online service — this is particularly convenient if you have a lot of luggage.

Regarding public transport, there is no direct bus or rail connection to Douala Airport. The urban transport system consists mainly of shared taxis and moto-taxis ("bendskins"), but for tourists with suitcases, this option would be extremely inconvenient and difficult to navigate. Therefore, most travellers are advised not to rely on public transport for trips to the airport.

If you prefer independence in your movements, you can use a car rental service. Both international and local rental companies operate in Douala. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the tourist season. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available on the terminal grounds, where cars can be left for short or long periods.

Regardless of the chosen method, the main advice is to leave for the airport with ample time to spare. Traffic in Douala can be very dense and unpredictable, so an extra hour in reserve will help avoid unnecessary stress before your flight.

Douala International Airport (DLA) is one of the key transport hubs of Cameroon and features a structure that is simple and easy for passengers to understand. The airport consists of one main terminal which serves both domestic and international flights. This organisation significantly simplifies navigation, as all main procedures — from check-in to boarding — take place in one building, and passengers do not need to worry about transferring between different blocks.

The terminal layout is quite standard for airports of this size. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. Typically, the departure zone with check-in halls, airline counters, and security checkpoints is located on the upper floor, whilst the arrival zone, including passport control for arriving passengers, luggage reclaim belts, and customs control, is situated on the lower, ground floor. Signs in the airport will help you find your way, but getting lost here is quite difficult.

The process of completing formalities at Douala Airport can take varying amounts of time depending on flight volume. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass through passport and customs control. For domestic flights, 1.5–2 hours is usually sufficient. Although there is only one terminal, queues can form at security checkpoints during peak hours.

For comfortable navigation through the airport, follow the signs, which are usually duplicated in French and English. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready — you may be asked to present them several times at different control stages. After passing security, passengers enter the airside zone, where duty-free shops, small cafes, and waiting lounges are located before the boarding gates.

The history of Douala International Airport (DLA) is closely linked to the development of Cameroon as a whole. Its journey began during the Second World War when a military airbase was built on this site. After the war ended, the facility was converted for civil aviation needs, becoming a vital link connecting the country with the rest of the world, especially after gaining independence.

A key stage in the airport's development was the construction of a new passenger terminal in the 1970s, which allowed for a significant increase in capacity. In the 1980s, a large-scale reconstruction followed, bringing the infrastructure up to what was then a modern standard. In subsequent decades, the airport has been modernised repeatedly: runways, navigation equipment, and security systems have been updated to meet growing international standards and passenger traffic.

Throughout its history, Douala Airport has played a central role not only in commercial transport but also in humanitarian missions in Central Africa. Today, it holds the title of the busiest airport in Cameroon and is the main hub for the national carrier Camair-Co. An interesting fact: its strategic location near the country's largest seaport turns Douala into a powerful logistics centre, ensuring both passenger and cargo transport for the entire region.

Douala International Airport (DLA), a key air transport hub of Cameroon, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Before departure, you can have a snack in one of the cafes or restaurants serving both local and international dishes. Shops operate within the terminal, including a Duty Free zone where you can purchase souvenirs, cosmetics, beverages, and other goods at competitive prices.

For those who value enhanced comfort, premium lounges and VIP areas are available at the airport. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere and enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks. Passengers are provided with Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, and special stations are equipped for charging gadgets.

Financial matters are easily resolved at the airport: bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange bureaus are at your service. In case of need, a medical point is located in the terminal building to provide first aid.

Travellers with children can use the mother and child room to care for little ones in a quiet environment. A barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility, and assistance services are also provided. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance regarding the need for special assistance to organise meeting and support.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels of various price categories are located near the airport. Although there are no specialised conference halls in the airport, some VIP lounges may offer work areas with access to necessary office equipment, which is convenient for business travellers.

Passengers waiting for a flight at Douala Airport (DLA) will find several options for a snack or a full meal. Although the choice of establishments here is not as vast as in major international hubs, the main food outlets are conveniently located in the main terminal — both in the public area before security and in the sterile departure zone.

For a substantial meal, the best choice would be the restaurant L'Escale, typically located in the departure zone after passport control. Here travellers can order dishes of both international and local cuisine. If you are looking for a place for drinks and lighter snacks, pay attention to the Le Zenith lounge. It is located on the upper floor of the terminal and offers guests not only beverages but also a decent view of the airfield. Small cafes also operate in the public zone, where you can quickly have a coffee with pastries or a sandwich.

Being at the airport is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the authentic flavours of Cameroon one last time. In the menu of the main restaurant, it is worth looking for dishes such as poisson braisé (grilled fish with spices) or the hearty stew poulet DG (chicken with vegetables and fried plantains). This is much more interesting than a standard airport menu.

Passengers with special dietary restrictions should note that the selection may be limited. Finding simple vegetarian dishes, such as a salad or rice with vegetables, is possible. However, certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal options are practically absent. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes with staff or, if you have strict dietary requirements, to carry necessary snacks with you.

As in most airports around the world, prices for food and drinks here are noticeably higher than in the city. The opening hours of main establishments, such as L'Escale and Le Zenith, are oriented towards the international flight schedule, so they are open mainly during the day and evening. In late night or early morning hours, the selection will be severely limited or unavailable.

Travelling through Douala International Airport (DLA) will be easier and more pleasant if you prepare in advance. Here are a few tips to help you navigate Cameroon's main airport and avoid unnecessary hassle.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient. Queues are possible during peak hours, so an extra time buffer never hurts.

Check-in and Security: Check-in and security control procedures at Douala Airport are standard but may take time. Keep your passport, visa, and ticket handy. Be prepared for a thorough inspection of hand luggage and personal items. Online check-in, if available with your airline, will help save time.

Seat Selection: If you want to admire the views, choose a window seat. If you need quick access to the aisle and more legroom, take an aisle seat. If a quick exit upon arrival is important to you, try to book a seat in the front part of the cabin.

Hand Luggage: Standard international rules apply here. Liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Be sure to check the exact luggage and hand luggage allowances with your airline before travelling.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Follow the "Transit" or "Connections" signs. If the layover is long and you plan to go into the city, ensure you have the appropriate visa.

Customs Control: Upon arrival, you may need to complete a customs declaration. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration. Be prepared that your luggage may be selectively checked.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle, which can be filled after passing security control. Currency exchange at the airport may be less favourable than in the city, so exchange only a small amount for initial expenses. Ordering a taxi through official services or apps often helps avoid inflated prices.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. Clarify your rights regarding the provision of meals, drinks, or a hotel depending on the length of the delay. Follow information on departure boards and public address announcements.