Kaduna Airport

Kaduna Airport is not merely a regional transport hub, but a true aerial gateway opening the path to the rich cultural heritage and economic potential of Northern Nigeria. Located away from the city bustle, this air terminal plays a strategic role in the country's aviation network, periodically taking on the functions of a backup for the capital's hubs. For the traveller, getting to know it is the first step towards immersing oneself in the atmosphere of one of the region's most dynamic states.

Kaduna Airport possesses a number of features that make it an important infrastructure facility:

Strategic Importance and Capabilities: The airport is known for its long runway (about 3,000 metres), which allows it to accommodate virtually any type of aircraft. This feature played a key role in 2017, when Kaduna temporarily became Nigeria's main air gateway during the reconstruction of the capital's Abuja airport, successfully handling a huge flow of international flights.

Terminal Infrastructure: The complex features two terminals. One serves scheduled domestic transport, connecting the city with Lagos and other key centres. The second terminal, known as the "Hajj Terminal", becomes active during pilgrimage periods, servicing international charter flights.

Transport Accessibility: The airport is connected to the city by road, with the journey taking approximately 30–40 minutes. There is also a rail link connecting the station near the airport with the city centre and the country's capital, Abuja, which is a convenient option for transit passengers.

Below you will find the main contact information for Kaduna International Airport (KAD). Please note that the airport is managed by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), so most official contacts lead to the central office of this organisation.

• Official Website: Current information on airport operations, schedules, and services is best found on the official website of the managing company FAAN: faan.gov.ng.
• Helpline Phone: For general enquiries, it is recommended to contact the central FAAN helpline. Numbers may change, so we advise checking them on the official website before calling.
• Airport Address: Kaduna-Zaria Road, Kaduna, Nigeria. The airport is located approximately 22 km from the centre of Kaduna.
• Email: For official requests, you can use the general FAAN email address: info@faan.gov.ng.
• Social Media: News and updates regarding airports in Nigeria, including Kaduna Airport, are often published on official FAAN pages, for example, on X (formerly Twitter) under the handle @FAAN_Official.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you encounter problems with your luggage (loss, damage), you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. It is the air carrier that bears responsibility for checked baggage.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For issues requiring immediate resolution on-site, please speak to staff at the information desks within the airport terminal.

You can get to Kaduna Airport (KAD), located approximately 22 kilometres northwest of the city centre of Kaduna, in several ways. Choosing the best option depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services are the most popular, convenient, and recommended method for tourists. You can use official airport taxis or book a car via mobile apps popular in Nigeria (such as Bolt or Uber). The trip from the city centre to the airport takes on average 40-60 minutes depending on traffic conditions. It is extremely important to agree on the fare with the driver in advance or ensure you agree with the price shown in the app to avoid misunderstandings.

Public Transport in the form of shared taxis (minibuses) and three-wheeled motorcycle taxis known as "Keke Napep" is the most budget-friendly but also the most complex option. There is no direct bus or rail link to the airport terminal building itself. The journey would require several transfers: first, you would need to take a "Keke" to one of the motor parks, then find a shared taxi going in the direction of the airport, and possibly use a "Keke" again for the final leg. This method is not recommended for tourists with luggage or those visiting the city for the first time due to navigation difficulties and comfort issues.

Car Rental and Private Transfer offer greater flexibility and comfort. Car rental desks operate in the city and at the airport itself, but driving in local conditions requires specific experience and confidence. A more relaxed alternative is to book a private transfer or use a shuttle from your hotel. This is more expensive than a taxi but guarantees a meeting at the designated place and a high level of safety.

If you decide to drive your own or a rented car, parking is provided within the Kaduna Airport grounds. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, which is convenient if you are flying away for a few days.

Kaduna Airport (KAD) is a modern and relatively compact aviation hub with one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This structure makes navigating the airport intuitively simple and convenient for passengers, eliminating the need to move between different buildings.

Inside the single terminal, the space is logically divided into several key zones. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general hall, from where you can easily proceed to the departure zone. Here, airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and passport control for international flights are located. After completing all formalities, passengers enter the secure area with waiting lounges. The arrival zone is located separately and includes baggage claim belts and customs control.

Since there is only one terminal, the issue of transfers between them is irrelevant. All navigation is done on foot within one building. Signs are generally in English and clearly direct passengers to the necessary points — be it check-in counters, boarding gates, or the baggage claim area. The airport layout is simple: departure and arrival zones are clearly demarcated, minimising the risk of getting confused.

To complete all pre-flight procedures, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. For domestic flights, it is advisable to be on-site 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 3 hours. Although the airport is not gigantic in size and queues here are usually shorter than in major global hubs, extra time will allow you to calmly check in luggage, pass through security, and find your boarding gate without rushing.

The International Airport of Kaduna (KAD) is a key air transport hub in the northern part of Nigeria. Its history began in 1982, when it was officially opened. The new airport was built to replace the old one, which could no longer cope with the growing passenger traffic and was subsequently handed over to the Nigerian Air Force. Originally designed as an international airport, it was intended to be the gateway to the country's northern regions.

For many years, Kaduna Airport served primarily domestic flights, connecting Kaduna State with other major cities such as Lagos and Abuja. However, one of the most significant moments in its history occurred in 2017. During the closure of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja for runway repairs, Kaduna Airport took over all its functions, including international flights.

For this massive event, the airport underwent urgent modernisation: the terminal building was renovated, infrastructure was improved, and top-level security measures were ensured. Within six weeks, Kaduna Airport successfully handled a huge increase in traffic, receiving thousands of passengers and hundreds of flights intended for the capital. This period demonstrated its strategic importance and potential, becoming the brightest achievement in its history and proving its ability to service air transport at an international level.

Kaduna Airport (KAD), being an important transport hub in the north of Nigeria, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Although the airport is not large, its infrastructure is thought out for the convenience of travellers.

In the terminal, you will find several cafes and eateries where you can taste local cuisine or have a cup of coffee before departure. Small shops are also operating, offering souvenirs, daily necessities, and reading materials. For passengers valuing privacy and extra comfort, VIP waiting lounges are available.

To stay connected, travellers can use free Wi-Fi in the main zones of the airport, as well as special stands for charging electronic devices. Financial matters can be resolved at bank branches or using ATMs available within the terminal grounds. Currency exchange points are also present.

To ensure passenger safety and health, a medical post operates around the clock at the airport, ready to provide first aid. Families with children can use the mother and child room. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking, and the terminal itself is equipped with ramps and special restrooms for convenient movement.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but a wide selection of accommodation options is presented in the city of Kaduna itself, located a few kilometres away. Specialised conference halls are not provided in the airport, however, basic conditions for work can be found in the VIP lounges.

Planning a flight through the airport of Kaduna (KAD), you will be able to get acquainted with the basics of local cuisine right in the terminal. Although the choice of establishments here is not as large as in major international hubs, the airport offers several decent options to have a snack before departure or after arriving in Nigeria.

The main food points are located in the main terminal building. As a rule, several small cafes and snack bars are found in the public area (landside), while after passing security control (airside), the choice may be more limited. Here you can find both places for a quick bite and small restaurants serving full hot meals. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so most cafes may be closed at night.

The main highlight of dining at Kaduna Airport is the opportunity to try authentic Nigerian dishes. Be sure to look out for hits such as:

• Jollof Rice — aromatic rice cooked in tomato sauce with spices, often served with chicken or fish.
• Suya — spicy meat skewers cooked on a grill. An excellent option for a quick and filling snack.
• Various pastries, for example, meat pies or sweet buns.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding Halal dishes is usually not difficult. However, options for vegans, vegetarians, or people with gluten intolerance may be limited. It is recommended to have small snacks with you if you follow a strict diet. Prices at the airport are generally moderate, especially for local cuisine.

If you are short on time, the best choice would be Suya or local pastries. For a more substantial meal, find a small restaurant and order a full lunch, such as Jollof Rice. This will allow you not only to satisfy your hunger but also to get a first gastronomic impression of the colourful cuisine of Northern Nigeria.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Kaduna city goes as comfortably as possible, make use of these simple tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and make your flight pleasant from the very beginning.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights within Nigeria, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure. This will give you enough time to calmly complete flight check-in and pre-flight screening. To save time, use online check-in if your airline offers such a service. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy to speed up all procedures.

Hand Luggage and Screening: Remember standard security rules. All liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Passing through security control will be faster if you remove all metal items from your pockets in advance, and take laptops and other large electronics out of your bags.

Seat Selection and In-Flight Comfort: Seat selection on the plane can significantly influence your flight experience. Window seats are ideal for those who love gazing at clouds and views of the ground. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. For more legroom, consider choosing seats at the emergency exit (often for an additional fee).

Transfers and Flight Delays: If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Plan enough time between connecting flights. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative to find out about the flight status and your rights to compensation (for example, vouchers for food or drinks).

Customs Control upon Arrival: Arriving from another country, you will have to pass through customs control. Have your passport and, if necessary, visa ready. Be prepared to answer the customs officer's questions about the purpose of your visit and the duration of your stay. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, use the "Red Channel".

Saving Time and Money: To avoid overpaying for water, take an empty bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after the security zone. Ordering a taxi through official services or apps is often better value than the services of private drivers at the terminal exit. Also, having a charged power bank and downloaded films or books will help brighten up any potential wait.