Overview
Kigali International Airport, formerly Kanombe International Airport and previously Gregoire Kayibanda International Airport, is Rwanda’s primary airport for both passenger and cargo traffic. Situated in the Kanombe sector at the eastern edge of Kigali, 5 minutes away from the city center, a convenient entry point for both business and leisure travelers. The airport serves as the main hub for the national carrier, RwandAir, and connects Kigali with numerous destinations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Given Rwanda’s status as a landlocked country, Kigali International Airport has always been essential for the nation’s connectivity to the rest of the world.
Kigali International Park stands at 1,491 meters above sea level, making it one of the higher airports in the region. Kigali International Airport once had two runways, however, one was closed off after the Arusha Accords in 1993, requested by the Rwandan Patriotic Front and currently has one runway at 3,500 meters long with two helicopter pads. The airport has three terminals, which are the main terminal that can accommodate about 6 mid-sized aircraft, the VIP terminal, and the cargo terminal, which is fairly busy due to Rwanda’s isolation and can accommodate all types of aircraft.
The airport has modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, duty-free shops, comfortable lounges, and a range of dining options which have helped it earn recognition for its quality and efficiency. The airport is also well-connected to Kigali’s road network, with services including taxis, car rentals, and shuttle buses readily available, ensuring smooth transfers between the airport and the city center. Please note that the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority, based at the airport, oversees operations to ensure that all procedures meet international safety and regulatory standards. With ongoing upgrades and the future Bugesera International Airport project on the horizon, Rwanda’s air travel infrastructure is well-positioned to meet the demands of a rapidly developing country.