Sherbro International Airport
Welcome to Sherbro International Airport. This airport, with the IATA code BTE, is located on Sherbro Island in Sierra Leone. It sits just outside the town of Bonthe. Unfortunately, the airport has been closed since around 2002. This closure likely relates to the Sierra Leone Civil War. However, there are exciting plans to build a new runway on Sherbro Island. This new runway will be part of a development program aimed at revitalizing the island.
Live Air Traffic
Sherbro International Airport (IATA: BTE) is located on Sherbro Island in Sierra Leone. It sits outside the town of Bonthe. The airport has been closed since around 2002. This closure is likely linked to the Sierra Leone Civil War. There are plans to build a new runway on Sherbro Island. This runway will be part of a new development program for the island. Travelers can look forward to future improvements at this location.
Basic information about airport
| Airport code: | GFBN |
|---|---|
| Type: | medium |
| Continent: | AF |
| Country code: | SL |
| Country: | Sierra |
| City | Bonthe |
| IATA: | BTE |
| Longitude: | -12.518899917602539 |
| Latitude: | 7.5324201583862305 |
Sherbro International Airport on Google Maps
Bonthe 
Broken clouds- Humidity: 58
- Wind: 6.04 m/sec
Broken clouds
Humidity: 58
Wind: 6.04 m/sec 31 C / 87.8 °F
30 C / 86 °F
30 C / 86 °F
30 C / 86 °F
30 C / 86 °F
Sherbro International Airport: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Sherbro International Airport (IATA: BTE, ICAO: GFBN) is an airport located on Sherbro Island, just outside the town of Bonthe in Sierra Leone. Although it was once a bustling hub for international travel, the airport has been reported closed since around 2002, likely due to the impacts of the Sierra Leone Civil War. Despite its closure, there are plans to construct a new airport runway as part of a broader development program for Sherbro Island. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Sherbro International Airport, its history, and the future prospects for air travel in the region.
Airlines and Destinations
Historically, Sherbro International Airport served as a gateway for various airlines connecting Sierra Leone to international destinations. However, due to its closure, there are currently no active airlines or scheduled flights operating from this airport. The closest operational airport is Gbangbatok Airport (GBK), located approximately 22 miles (35 kilometers) northeast of BTE. Future plans for the airport may include the resumption of international flights, but specific airlines and destinations have yet to be confirmed.
Number of Passengers and Flights
Before its closure, Sherbro International Airport facilitated a modest number of passenger flights, primarily serving travelers to and from Sierra Leone. The airport's capacity was limited, and it primarily catered to regional flights. With the airport currently closed, the number of passengers and flights has dropped to zero. The anticipated reopening and development of a new runway may lead to an increase in passenger traffic in the future.
How to Get Here
Reaching Sherbro International Airport is currently not possible due to its closure. However, for those looking to visit the region, the nearest operational airport is Gbangbatok Airport (GBK). From there, travelers can arrange for local transportation to Bonthe and Sherbro Island. The journey typically involves a combination of road travel and possibly boat transport, given the island's geographical location.
Parking
As Sherbro International Airport is closed, there are no parking facilities available at this time. In the future, once the airport reopens, it is expected that parking options will be provided, including short-term and long-term parking facilities to accommodate travelers.
Transportation Price
Currently, there are no transportation prices available for Sherbro International Airport due to its closure. However, once the airport reopens, transportation options such as taxis and car rentals are expected to be available, with prices varying based on the service provider and distance traveled.
Terminal Layout
Sherbro International Airport had a simple terminal layout designed to accommodate the needs of travelers. The terminal included check-in counters, waiting areas, and basic amenities. However, with the airport's closure, the terminal facilities are no longer operational. Future plans for the airport may include a redesigned terminal to enhance the travel experience for passengers.
Navigate the Airport
Navigating Sherbro International Airport was relatively straightforward, given its small size. Travelers could easily find their way to check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. However, with the airport currently closed, navigation is no longer applicable. Future developments may introduce new signage and facilities to assist travelers once the airport reopens.
Getting Between Terminals
Sherbro International Airport had a single terminal, which meant that there was no need for inter-terminal transportation. All services and amenities were located within the same building. Once the airport reopens, it is anticipated that the layout will remain similar, allowing for easy access to all areas of the terminal.
Services and Amenities
Before its closure, Sherbro International Airport offered basic services and amenities for travelers, including:
- Check-in counters
- Waiting areas
- Limited food and beverage options
- Basic retail shops
With the airport currently closed, these services are no longer available. Future plans for the airport may include enhanced amenities to improve the overall travel experience.
Restaurants and Shops
Sherbro International Airport had limited dining and shopping options, primarily consisting of small kiosks and shops offering snacks and travel essentials. However, due to the airport's closure, these facilities are no longer operational. Once the airport reopens, it is expected that a wider range of dining and shopping options will be introduced to cater to travelers.
Security and Customs
Security and customs procedures at Sherbro International Airport were in line with international standards, ensuring the safety of passengers and their belongings. However, with the airport currently closed, these procedures are not applicable. Future developments may include updated security measures and customs facilities to enhance the travel experience.
Accessibility
Sherbro International Airport aimed to provide accessible facilities for travelers with disabilities. However, with the airport's closure, these services are no longer available. Once the airport reopens, it is expected that accessibility features will be included in the new terminal design to accommodate all travelers.
Travel Tips
For those planning to visit Sherbro Island and the surrounding areas in the future, here are some travel tips:
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates regarding the reopening of Sherbro International Airport and any new airlines or routes that may be introduced.
- Plan Your Transportation: Since the airport is currently closed, plan your transportation to and from Gbangbatok Airport or other nearby locations.
- Explore Local Attractions: Sherbro Island is known for its beautiful beaches and rich culture. Take the time to explore the local attractions once you arrive.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unexpected changes or cancellations during your trip.
- Pack Essentials: Given the limited amenities at smaller airports, pack essential items such as snacks, water, and travel documents in your carry-on luggage.
Conclusion
Sherbro International Airport, once a vital link for travelers to and from Sierra Leone, is currently closed but holds promise for the future. With plans for a new runway and development program, the airport may soon resume operations, providing enhanced services and connectivity for travelers. As the region continues to develop, Sherbro International Airport could once again become a key player in Sierra Leone's aviation landscape.