The Aden International Airport: Gateway to the Lively South of Yemen
Introduction
Aden International Airport, the principal gateway to Aden Municipality and southern Yemen as well, is one of the oldest airports in Arabia. Originally an RAF station, the airfield at this airport is only slightly younger than Rayak itself and has throughout its lifetime risen to be Yemen's principal international terminal linking it with other countries halfway around the world.
Airlines and Destinations
Currently, Aden International Airport (ADE) operates flights to 11 destinations in 7 countries with its non-stop passenger flights. Yemenia, the national airline of Yemen and the main carrier at the airport, flies to cities such as Sana'a, Jeddah (Seasonal), Cairo, and Amman (both via Seiyun). The country only has 3 internal flights flying to different cities in Yemen as well.
Number of Passengers and Flights
On average, Aden International Airport handles 178 individual flights per month and approximately 42 domestic destinations weekly. Riyadh, Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), and Cairo/Egypt are the leading routes with 61% of monthly arrivals at the airport.
How to Get Here
The Aden International Airport is the nearest airport, about 8 kilometers away from the city center of Aden. The airport can be accessed by taxis, private cars, and public buses for travelers. Access is very good; the airport has a connection to M-232 and thus, by bus route A10, one can find their way quickly from many parts of Aden as well.
Parking
Both short-term and long-term parking are available at the airport. Cars can enter the Airport onto Rodrigues Alves Avenue, then follow signage to car parking areas located near the terminal building with ample capacity for private and rental cars.
Transportation Prices
Transport prices to and from Aden International Airport may vary depending on the means of transportation and the distance traveled. Taxis and private vehicles generally cost a standard fare, which is more expensive than public buses, providing cheaper options for those with tighter budgets.
Terminal Layout
There is just one 2-level terminal building that accommodates both domestic and international flights at Aden International Airport. The terminal provides facilities and convenience serving passenger functions such as check-in counters, security checkpoints, arrival lounges, and departure gates.
Navigate the Airport
The Aden International Airport is relatively easy to navigate through a combination of clear signage and an organized layout. Those left reeling in the effect might be passengers who need to find their way around from the area of the terminal to the check-in zone, security screening, or takeoff and landing lobbies.
Getting Between Terminals
Aden International Airport has only one terminal, which means passengers are unable to navigate through any other terminals. With all arrivals and departures at a single facility, the total experience of being in an airport is simplified exponentially by speeding up transit between places.
Services and Amenities
Aden International Airport offers a variety of services and facilities, ranging from duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes to banking and currency exchange services. Passenger services include some basic provisions such as baggage storage service at the airport and kiosks that provide information only.
Restaurants and Shops
Within the terminal building at Aden International Airport, you can find several options related to food and shopping. The airport is well-serviced, offering local Yemeni cuisine as well as international fast-food joints. There are also duty-free shops in the airport where passengers can shop for souvenirs and items they may have forgotten to pack.
Security and Customs
The airport follows tough security measures to provide protection and safety for all travelers. If travelers are approved for transit, they should arrive at the airport two to three hours before their connecting flight departs and be prepared for scrutinizing security screening of luggage and personal belongings prior to entering the departure or arrival area.
Accessibility
Aden International Airport is dedicated to ensuring that facilities and services are readily made available for customers with special needs. The airport has facilities and aids meant for people with disabilities to allow them easy access to their flights.
Travel Tips
Although the conflict has meant travel to Yemen by air has been affected, Aden International Airport is very much a working airport and provides some important connectivity for visitors. Travelers should keep abreast of the latest security developments and confirm their flight schedules with airlines or travel agents to facilitate a smooth journey.