Benina International

To obtain the most up-to-date information regarding the operation of Benina Airport (BEN), it is recommended to use the following contacts. Please note that some details may change, and for key questions, such as flight status or baggage allowance rules, it is always best to contact your airline representatives directly.

• Official Website: At present, the airport does not have a consistently functioning official website. It is recommended to check information on the websites of airlines operating flights to Benghazi.
• Information Desk Phone: A unified enquiry number may not be available. For accurate information regarding your flight, it is recommended to contact the airline offices at the airport directly.
• Address: Benina International Airport (BEN), Benghazi, Libya. The airport is located approximately 19 km east of the city centre.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general passenger enquiries is not publicly provided. Please contact airport services through your airline.
• Social Media: Official social media pages for the airport may be absent or not updated regularly. Air carriers remain the most reliable source of information.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged baggage, you should apply directly to the Lost & Found service of your airline at the arrival airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For issues regarding tickets, schedules, or carriage rules, contact your airline's support service. For general questions about infrastructure, you can approach the information desk in the terminal.

There are several ways to get to Benina International Airport (BEN) from the city centre of Benghazi. The airport is located approximately 19 kilometres east of the city, and the journey usually takes from 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi and Private Transfer
This is the most convenient and common way for tourists to reach the airport. Taxis can be found in any part of the city or ordered through a hotel. The estimated cost of the trip is from 50 to 80 Libyan Dinars (LYD), but the final price may depend on the time of day and your ability to negotiate. It is recommended to agree on the fare in advance with the driver, as taximeters are not always used. A private transfer, booked online in advance or through a travel agency, can be a more predictable option in terms of price and comfort.

Public Transport
Public transport options to the airport may be limited and not always convenient for travellers with luggage. Theoretically, one can use shared taxis or local buses that run in this direction, however, their routes and schedules may be unclear. This method is more suitable for those familiar with the local transport system and who speak Arabic.

Car Hire
For those who prefer independence, car hire will be an excellent solution. Both local and international rental companies operate in Benghazi. By renting a car, you can not only drive to the airport in comfort but also explore the surroundings. Ensure you have an International Driving Permit. Benina Airport has parking facilities where you can leave your car for both short and long periods.

Benina International Airport (BEN), serving the city of Benghazi and the surrounding regions of Libya, is a modern and relatively compact transport hub. Following reconstruction, its infrastructure was significantly simplified and modernised for passenger convenience.

Currently, the airport uses one main passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This structure makes navigation through the airport intuitively clear and fast. You will not have to worry about transferring between different buildings, as all major operations are concentrated under one roof.

The terminal layout is quite simple. Departure and Arrival zones are clearly separated. The departure area houses check-in counters, security checkpoints, and passport control, after which passengers proceed to the departure lounge with boarding gates. The arrival area includes passport control, baggage reclaim belts, and customs inspection. Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, the path from the entrance to the boarding gate or from the aircraft to the city exit does not take much time.

Although it is not a huge international hub, the terminal provides essential amenities for passengers: waiting lounges, several cafes, and small shops where you can purchase necessities and souvenirs. Information boards and signs will help you find your way, and staff are always ready to assist.

The time required for formalities, such as flight check-in and security screening, is usually short. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: approximately 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to go through all procedures without rushing, even in the event of unforeseen delays.

Benina International Airport (BEN) is not just the main air gateway to Benghazi and Eastern Libya, but also a facility with a rich and multi-layered history. Its path reflects key stages in the region's development, starting from the first half of the 20th century to the present day.

The history of the airport began in the 1930s, when it was built as a military airfield by the Italian Air Force. During World War II, the airfield, known then as "Berka-2 Airport", acquired strategic importance and became the scene of significant events during the North African campaign. After the war, the facility was transferred to the control of the British Royal Air Force and was named RAF Benina, a name preserved in its modern civil designation.

The transition to civil aviation was a key moment in the airport's development. It gradually turned into an important transport hub serving passenger and cargo transport. In the 1970s, against the backdrop of economic growth, a new passenger terminal was built to cope with the increasing flow of travellers and meet the needs of the country's developing infrastructure.

In the 21st century, large-scale projects were initiated to modernize and expand the airport. Plans included the construction of a new, modern terminal capable of serving several million passengers a year and meeting international standards. This modernisation was aimed at strengthening Benina's status as a key aviation hub in North Africa, offering passengers a high level of comfort and safety.

One of the interesting facts from the airport's history is its dual heritage. It successfully transformed from a purely military facility into a bustling civil airport while retaining its strategic importance. This transformation highlights its important role in linking the region with the rest of the world over decades.

Benina International Airport (BEN), serving the second-largest city in Libya — Benghazi, provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Within the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat or drink a cup of coffee. For those wishing to shop before departure, a Duty Free shop operates, offering a standard range of perfumes, cosmetics, sweets, and souvenirs.

For a more comfortable wait, passengers can use the services of the VIP lounge, which offers a secluded atmosphere and additional amenities. To stay connected, wireless internet (Wi-Fi) is available in the airport building, and power outlets for charging mobile phones and other electronic devices are located in the waiting halls.

The airport features currency exchange points and ATMs, making it easy to resolve financial matters upon arrival or before departure. In case of feeling unwell or the need for first aid, a medical centre is available in the terminal, accessible to all passengers.

Special mother and child rooms are provided for travellers with small children. The airport is also equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, special washrooms, and staff assistance during boarding and disembarking are available.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, travellers can easily find numerous accommodation options in the city of Benghazi, which is a few minutes' drive away. For business travellers, basic business services may be available in the VIP lounge, however, full-scale conference halls and business centres are best sought in city hotels.

When planning a departure from Benina Airport (BEN), it is worth considering meal arrangements in advance. Dining options here are quite modest and are primarily designed to satisfy hunger before a flight rather than for gastronomic discoveries. Most establishments are concentrated in the main hall of the terminal, in the area before security control (landside).

At the airport, you will find several small cafes and kiosks where you can have a quick snack. The assortment usually includes sandwiches, pastries, crisps, and sweets. Here you can also order hot and cold drinks: tea, coffee, water, and sodas. This is a great option if you need to pass the time before your flight with a cup of coffee, but do not expect full restaurant service.

If you wish to try something from the local cuisine, your opportunities at the airport will be limited. Sometimes you can find traditional Libyan tea or coffee in the cafes, but to experience the national cuisine of Libya, it is better to dine at one of the restaurants in the city of Benghazi before travelling to the airport. The airport infrastructure is not designed for a full lunch or dinner.

Passengers with special dietary needs should be particularly attentive. As this is a Muslim country, the majority of products are Halal. However, finding vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes may be practically impossible. If you follow a strict diet, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you.

The opening hours of catering establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule but may be irregular. Prices for food and drinks are moderate, but it is better to have cash in local currency, as card payment may not be available everywhere. Almost all food outlets are located in the public zone, so after passing passport control and security (airside), the choice will be even more limited or non-existent.

Planning a trip through Benina Airport in the city of Benghazi will be significantly easier if you consider a few tips. To avoid rushing, arrive at the airport well in advance: 2.5-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to go through all formalities calmly.

When going through check-in and security control, have all necessary documents ready: passport, ticket, and visa (if required). Security screening procedures at the airport are standard but can be quite thorough, so please be patient. To speed up the process, remove all metal objects from your pockets and prepare electronic devices in advance.

The choice of seat on the plane depends on your preferences. A window seat will give you the opportunity to enjoy the views during take-off and landing, especially if your route lies over the picturesque landscapes of Libya. An aisle seat provides more legroom and allows you to stand up freely without disturbing your neighbours. Book your seat in advance to get your preferred option.

You are allowed to take a standard set of items in your hand luggage: liquids in containers up to 100 ml packed in a transparent bag, portable electronics, documents, and medicines (it is recommended to have a prescription). It is strictly forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, flammable liquids, and other dangerous substances in the cabin.

If you have a transfer in Benghazi, check with your airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. For long layovers, study the visa rules in case you wish to leave the transit zone. Customs control upon arrival is standard: be prepared to declare valuable items or large sums of cash if required by the regulations.

To save time and money, check in for your flight online if your airline provides such an option. You can also save money by taking an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security control. Exchanging large sums of currency at the airport is usually less favourable; it is better to do this in advance or in the city.

In the event of a flight delay, remain calm. First, contact your airline's counter for information about the new departure time and your rights to refreshments, meals, or accommodation. Ensure your electronic devices are charged, and having travel insurance can significantly simplify the resolution of unforeseen problems.