Sayun International Airport

Welcome to Sayun International Airport - Your Access to the Heart of Yemen

Introduction

Sayun International Airport (IATA: GXF, ICAO: OYSY) is an important airport in the beautiful Hadhramaut region of Yemen and one that serves as a gateway to the rich tapestry of culture that this enchanting nation has to offer. Sayun International Airport, located in the Governorate of Hadramaut, a region known for its strong interest in aerospace and space sector activities, has served as Yemen's sole operating airport to correspond with unique political developments.

Airlines and Destinations

At present, Sayun International Airport is handling international flights with Yemen's national carrier, also known as Yemenia, providing regular service to Aden and Cairo, along with a Jeddah sector. Although the airport is served by a limited route network, it still serves as an important gateway for travelers looking to visit Yemen.

Passengers/Aircraft

In the past fifteen years, air traffic has largely been limited to Yemenia flights at Sayun International Airport. Detailed passenger numbers are not available, but the strategic importance of it as an alternative to Sana'a International Airport during a Saudi blockade and also as a result of political instability at Aden (Aden International) has kept this airport in use.

How to Get Here

Getting to Sayun International Airport is no easy feat given its location in the midst of the Hadhramaut region, about 480 kilometers east of Sana'a. Travelers may additionally opt for attempting to access ground transportation like non-private vehicles or taxis, a journey that could take numerous hours depending on the distance from where you are.

Parking

Parking spaces at the airport are scarce, thus only a small part of the space is available for private vehicles arriving. Guests are urged to consider alternate modes of transportation, including being dropped off or using public transit.

Transportation Price

Rates for transportation from the airport to different parts of Yemen could vary, but perhaps, something that people will want other than having a tell-tale sign pasted on their forehead with the words "tourist" are private car services. When feasible, there may be cheaper public transportation options.

Terminal Layout

It is a relatively small airport with an international and domestic terminal. Introduced as an area for parking large numbers of passengers to be carried by buses, the terminal layout is simple in both plan and organization, with amenities being basic given its limited passenger throughputs.

Navigate the Airport

The terminal of Sayun International Airport is very small, and navigation through it isn't that difficult. There are signs to direct passengers to the appropriate check-in desks, security checks, and departure gates.

Getting Between Terminals

As Sayun International Airport has only 1 terminal, passengers do not have to travel from one terminal to another. So, this building handles arrivals and departures.

Services and Amenities

Limited services at Sayun International Airport include simple food and beverage options, few shopping possibilities. Travelers should also plan for this and bring whatever it is that makes them comfortable or relaxed when heading to the airport.

Restaurants and Shops

It is a modest airport, with limited food and retail outlets which are local to the area, along with essential passenger services. With this in mind, if you are looking to eat and shop for a wider variety of foods and gifts, then you may want to venture out of the airport.

Security and Customs

Standard security and documentation checks are carried out on all passengers traveling from or through Sayun International Airport, along with routine baggage screening. We recommend arriving at the airport with plenty of time to complete these formalities.

Accessibility

While Sayun International Airport makes an effort to be accessible for passengers with disabilities, it may not be as fully equipped compared to larger and more developed airports. Passengers with specific needs are advised to liaise directly with their airline or the airport.

Travel Tips

Neither of the airports serves as having the normal services and amenities found at large international hubs, but when traveling through Sayun International Airport, it is important to be prepared. Travelers are advised to bring food, water, or entertainment that they feel will make them comfortable throughout the trip. Also, you should get to the airport well in advance because of any backlogs or security checks.