Kigali International Airport in Rwanda is very large and busy. It is in the capital city of Kigali. It serves as the main gateway to the country, connecting Rwanda with several destinations around the world. The airport was previously known as Gregoire Kayibanda International Airport and was later renamed to Kigali International Airport in 2005.
Ownership
Kigali International Airport is owned and operated by the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA) and is a modern, well-designed airport that offers a range of facilities and services to travelers. The airport has undergone significant renovations and upgrades over the years, making it one of the most modern airports in the region. The airport’s modern amenities and infrastructure have made it an important hub for business, tourism, and cargo in the East African region.
The airport has a single terminal building that handles both international and domestic flights. The terminal building is in two levels, with the arrivals area on the ground floor and the departures area on the upper floor. The terminal is to handle up to 1.6 million passengers per year, and it currently handles over 800,000 passengers annually.
Facilities and services it offers
Kigali International Airport offers a range of facilities and services for travelers. The airport has several shops, restaurants, and cafes, where passengers can relax and grab a bite to eat before or after their flight. There are also several duty-free shops at the airport, where travelers can purchase tax-free goods such as perfumes, cosmetics, and electronics. Other facilities at the airport include currency exchange services, ATMs, a post office, and a business center.
In addition to its passenger services, Kigali International Airport also serves as a hub for cargo operations in the region. The airport has a cargo terminal, which has modern facilities and equipment to handle a wide range of cargo types, including perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and dangerous goods.
It has excellent safety and security standards
Kigali International Airport also has excellent safety and security standards. The airport has modern security systems, including x-ray machines, metal detectors, and CCTV cameras, which are to screen passengers and their luggage. It also has a range of measures to ensure the safety of passengers and staff, including regular security drills and the presence of armed security personnel.
The airport has several airlines that operate flights to and from Kigali. These include major international airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Kenya Airways. RwandAir, the national carrier of Rwanda, is also based at Kigali International Airport and operates several flights to destinations across Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Awards
Kigali International Airport has received several awards and recognitions for its outstanding facilities and services. In 2020, the airport was ranked as the second-best airport in Africa. This was in the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) survey by Airports Council International (ACI). The airport has also been recognized for its sustainability initiatives. This is including its use of renewable energy and its efforts to reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
Tourism in Rwanda from Kigali Airport
Kigali International Airport serves as the main gateway to Rwanda, which has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years. The country has a stunning scenery, including the Volcanoes National Park, which is home to mountain gorillas, as well as its vibrant culture and history. With the airport’s modern facilities and convenient location, it is easier than ever for travelers to visit Rwanda and explore all that the country has to offer. The airport’s role in facilitating tourism to Rwanda has helped to boost the country’s economy and promote sustainable development.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kigali International Airport is a modern, well-designed airport that offers a range of facilities and services to travelers. The airport’s excellent safety and security standards. Also, it has modern infrastructure, and convenient location. These have made it an important hub for business, tourism, and cargo in the East African region. With its ongoing efforts to improve sustainability and expand its services. Kigali International Airport to remain a major player in the aviation industry in the years to come.
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