Algiers International Airport Sets Ambitious Goal of 9.5 Million Travelers by 2024
BY: Hana Saada
Algiers, September 23, 2023 – The Director General (DG) of Algiers airport, Mohamed Salah Kouache, has unveiled an ambitious target of welcoming 9.5 million travelers at Algiers “Houari-Boumediene” international airport by the year 2024. This exciting announcement was made during a statement to the APS agency, coinciding with the return flight of the direct Algiers/Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) airline. Mr. Kouache highlighted the remarkable growth trajectory, with the number of travelers through Algiers airport having reached 6.5 million in 2022, expected to rise to 8 million this year, and soaring to an impressive 9 to 9.5 million within the next three years.
The notable surge in traveler numbers can be attributed to the establishment of new air routes that have been or will soon be launched, linking Algiers airport to destinations across three continents: Africa, Europe, and America. This expansion is positioning Algiers airport as a pivotal global transit hub, particularly for the African community traveling to Africa’s eastern, western, and southern regions.
With an international network comprising 47 destinations and a domestic network encompassing 33 destinations, Algiers airport is strategically situated for travelers from around the world. Of special note is the introduction of two new routes to Caracas, Venezuela, and New York, United States, which will further bolster the airport’s status as a global aviation hub. Additionally, Algiers airport aims to enhance its overall service quality, streamlining procedures for the Algerian community, travelers, passengers, economic operators, and tourists alike.
Hadj Said Nadir, Director of Sales and Network of Air Algérie, affirmed the effectiveness of this strategy, enacted under the guidance of the nation’s leadership, by revealing a remarkable 40% increase in the boarding rate compared to 2019. The airport has also witnessed a significant uptick in the number of travelers in transit, underscoring its newfound importance as a key layover destination.
Moreover, Algiers airport has evolved into a vital gateway for pilgrims embarking on journeys to the Holy Places, particularly from Europe. Mr. Nadir pointed to the fact that Algiers airport facilitated the transportation of approximately 2,900 pilgrims to Jeddah in the current year alone, highlighting the airport’s growing stature on the international stage.
In line with its ambitious expansion plans, Air Algérie is actively seeking to enhance profitability and competitiveness. It aims to achieve this by fostering partnerships between Algerian and foreign economic operators involved in passenger transport, freight, tourism, and travel. These collaborations are poised to further cement Algiers airport’s position as a global aviation hub.
In an exciting development, ticket sales for the two new direct routes, Algiers-Addis Ababa and Algiers-Douala, are set to commence on Saturday, paving the way for their official launch. These routes will augment Air Algérie’s presence in Africa, with a total of 23 flights per week connecting Algiers to various African destinations.
With these ambitious goals, Algiers airport is poised to play an increasingly pivotal role in global travel, connecting people and cultures from around the world, and strengthening Algeria’s position in the international aviation landscape.
