Axum Airport

Axum Airport, also known as Emperor Yohannes IV Airport, serves as the aerial gateway to one of the most ancient and mysterious cities in Ethiopia. Situated at an altitude of over 2,100 metres above sea level, this airport is the starting point for travellers seeking to touch the history of the Kingdom of Aksum. Despite its modest size, the airport made history in 2005 by hosting one of the world's largest transport aircraft, the Antonov An-124, which returned the famous Obelisk of Axum from Italy to its homeland.

Although Axum Airport is a small regional hub, it plays a key role in the transport system of the country's north. It exclusively serves domestic flights, connecting the historical region with the capital, Addis Ababa. The main and only airline operating regular flights is the national carrier, Ethiopian Airlines. The airport's infrastructure, updated in 2024, offers a basic set of services sufficient for a comfortable wait for your flight. Its main feature is an asphalt runway 2,400 metres long, capable of accommodating fairly large aircraft.

Obtaining detailed contact information for small regional airports, such as the airport in Axum, can be challenging. Most issues are resolved through the airline operating the flight. Below is general information and recommendations for communication.

• Official Website: Generally, Axum Airport does not have its own separate website. It is recommended to look for up-to-date information on flights and services on the official website of Ethiopian Airlines, which is the main flight operator, or on the Ethiopian Airports Enterprise portal.
• Inquiry Service Phone: A direct public phone number for the airport is difficult to find. To get prompt information about flight status, bookings, or schedule changes, it is most reliable to call your airline's call centre.
• Airport Address: The airport is located in the city of Axum, Tigray Region, Ethiopia (Axum, Tigray, Ethiopia).
• Email: A dedicated email address for general inquiries is usually unavailable. For communication, use the contact forms on the air carrier's website.
• Social Media: The airport does not have official pages on social networks. For news and updates, follow the pages of Ethiopian Airlines.
• Lost Luggage Information: All issues related to lost or damaged luggage are handled by the relevant department of the airline, not the airport administration. Please contact your carrier's Lost & Found service upon arrival.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Support regarding tickets, check-in, assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, and other special services is provided by the airline that sold you the ticket.

Getting to the airport of Axum (AXU), which is located approximately 5-6 kilometres from the centre, is quite simple. Although the choice of transport is not as extensive as in major metropolises, the existing options are reliable and allow you to plan your trip without unnecessary hassle. The journey from the city centre to the terminal usually takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.

Taxis and Bajaj (Auto-rickshaws) are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. You can easily find them anywhere in the city. Bajajs, three-wheeled auto-rickshaws, are a cheaper alternative to a regular taxi. It is extremely important to agree on the fare with the driver in advance, before starting the journey, as meters are rarely used. A taxi ride will cost slightly more but will ensure greater comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Many hotels and guest houses in Axum offer their guests organised transfers to the airport. This is one of the most reliable and worry-free options. The service can be booked in advance at the reception, confirming the cost and pick-up time. This method is ideal for those who value comfort and predictability, especially for early departures or late arrivals.

For the most budget-conscious and adventurous travellers, there is public transport in the form of minibuses. They ply the main roads, and theoretically, one can find a vehicle heading towards the airport. However, they do not have a clear schedule, are often overcrowded, and are not very convenient for transporting luggage. This option is more suitable for those travelling light and wishing to immerse themselves deeper into local life.

Car rental in Ethiopia is possible, but for a short trip to Axum Airport, it is not the most rational choice. Usually, this service is used for long journeys around the region. If you are travelling by rental car, the airport has a small parking area where you can leave the car for a short time to drop off or pick up passengers. Long-term parking is not provided here.

Axum Airport (AXU), also known as Emperor Yohannes IV Airport, is a small regional airport primarily serving domestic flights. Its structure is very simple and intuitive, making navigation easy even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport operates with just one terminal, which serves both departing and arriving passengers. The terminal building is compact, and all key zones are within walking distance of each other. There is no complex system of walkways or multiple levels — everything is located on a single floor. This significantly simplifies orientation and saves time.

Departure and arrival zones are separated but located in the same building. Immediately upon entry, you will find yourself in a small hall where the check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening point, followed by a small waiting lounge. The arrival zone is a separate part of the building with a baggage claim belt (or area). Since the airport handles few flights, confusion is eliminated.

Check-in and screening procedures usually proceed very quickly thanks to the low passenger flow. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance — approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure, to complete all formalities without rushing. Navigation through the terminal will not cause difficulties: it is hard to get lost here, and the staff are always ready to help and direct you.

The history of Axum Airport (AXU) is inextricably linked with the transformation of this ancient city into one of the main tourism and pilgrimage centres of Ethiopia. Although the first air transport to the region began in the mid-20th century, the modern airport as we know it today took shape much later.

A key stage in the airport's development was a major reconstruction completed in 1996. Until that moment, it functioned more as a simple airfield with a dirt strip. Modernisation included the construction of a permanent asphalt runway and the erection of a new, more functional passenger terminal. This allowed for the establishment of regular and safe air connections using modern turboprop aircraft, such as the Dash 8, which form the backbone of the country's domestic fleet.

The main achievement in the airport's history is not passenger traffic records, but its vital role as a "bridge" between the modern world and ancient heritage. Thanks to its operation, thousands of tourists, researchers, and pilgrims from around the world can comfortably reach unique UNESCO World Heritage sites. Its importance increases particularly during major religious festivals, such as Timkat (Epiphany), when believers flock to Axum from all over Ethiopia and abroad.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the airport is also known as Emperor Yohannes IV Airport, although in everyday use, it is more often called simply by the name of the great city. Its international IATA code — AXU — is a direct reference to the name of the ancient capital, emphasising the unbreakable bond with this legendary place.

Axum Airport (AXU) is a small regional airport serving one of the most important historical centres of Ethiopia. Given its size, the range of services here is focused on meeting the basic needs of passengers before departure. In the terminal, you will find a small cafe where you can buy light snacks, sandwiches, as well as hot and cold drinks. There is also usually a souvenir kiosk where you can purchase local handicrafts as a memento.

For a more comfortable wait for your flight, a small lounge may be provided, sometimes accessible to business class passengers or for a separate fee; however, its availability and level of service should be confirmed in advance. regarding modern amenities, difficulties may arise. Wi-Fi access at the airport is generally absent or limited, and the number of power outlets for charging electronic devices is small. It is strongly recommended to charge all gadgets before arriving at the airport or carry a portable power bank.

Financial services at Axum Airport are minimal. There may not be a full-fledged bank branch or currency exchange point here, so it is better to perform all financial transactions in the city beforehand. Passengers with children and people with reduced mobility are provided with basic assistance. Although there are no dedicated playrooms, airport and airline staff will assist with boarding and provide a wheelchair upon prior request. In case of necessity, the airport has a first aid point.

There are no hotels on the airport territory itself, but the city of Axum is only a few kilometres away, and you can reach any of its numerous hotels and guest houses by taxi in 10–15 minutes. Specialised business centres or conference halls are not provided at Axum Airport. It is a compact and functional transport hub, the main task of which is to ensure convenient flights to the ancient treasures of this region.

When planning a flight from the airport of Axum city, it is important to consider that this is a small regional air terminal with a limited range of services. Dining options here are quite modest and are designed primarily for a quick snack before departure, rather than a full lunch or dinner.

In the airport's single terminal, you will find a few small cafes or kiosks, typically located in the general hall before the security zone (landside). The selection here is not comparable to large international hubs. Usually, the assortment includes basic drinks — water, soda, juices, and, of course, the famous Ethiopian coffee. Its aromatic cup will help brighten the wait for the flight. For food, you can count on packaged snacks, biscuits, as well as simple local pastries, such as "dabo" bread.

If you are looking for something more substantial, your options will be extremely limited. Specialised establishments with vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free menus are absent at the airport. However, some local snacks may be plant-based by nature (often suitable for halal diets as well). Prices in local cafes are very reasonable, especially compared to prices in European or American airports.

Main recommendation for travellers: if you want a full meal, it is better to do so in advance at one of the numerous restaurants in the city of Axum itself. There you can enjoy the full variety of Ethiopia's cuisine, including the famous injera with various "wat" stews. The airport should be viewed exclusively as a place for a short rest with a cup of coffee before boarding the plane.

Flights from Axum Airport generally proceed calmly, as it is a small regional aviation hub. Nevertheless, a few tips will help make your journey even more comfortable and predictable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Ethiopia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without haste. Although some airlines offer online check-in, be prepared for the possibility of having to check in at the counter on-site. Keep your passport and ticket handy.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. The screening procedure is standard. Remember the general rules: liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and sharp objects are prohibited in the cabin. If you are carrying handicrafts or copies of artefacts as souvenirs, it is better to clarify the rules for their export in advance to avoid misunderstandings.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If it is possible to choose a seat during check-in, ask for a window seat. The mountain landscapes of the Tigray region that open up during takeoff and landing can become one of the vivid impressions of the trip. Axum Airport is rarely used for transit flights, so if you have a transfer scheduled in another city, ensure there is enough time between flights, taking possible delays into account.

Customs Control and Savings. There is no customs control on domestic flights. To save money, book a taxi to the airport in advance or agree on the price before the trip starts. Prices for food and drinks in small airports can be inflated, so it is worth bringing an empty water bottle (which can be filled after screening) and a light snack.

What to do if the flight is delayed? Unfortunately, delays on domestic airlines happen. Remain calm and contact your airline representative for information. Amenities in the Axum Airport terminal may be limited, so a charged power bank, a book, or a downloaded film will help pass the waiting time. Keep important contacts (hotel, guide) at hand to warn them about changes in your plans.