Overview of Alula Aba Nega Airport
Alula Aba Nega Airport, also known as Mekelle Airport, is a domestic airport located in Mekelle, the capital city of the Tigray Region in northern Ethiopia. It was named after Alula Aba Nega, a prominent Ethiopian general who fought against Italian colonialism.
The airport began operations in 1999 and has since undergone several expansions and upgrades. It has a single terminal building and one runway that measures 3,600 meters in length and 60 meters in width. The airport can accommodate large aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and the Airbus A380.
Alula Aba Nega Airport serves as a hub for Ethiopian Airlines’ domestic flights to destinations such as Addis Ababa, Lalibela, Bahir Dar, and Axum. It also serves as a gateway to the Tigray Region’s tourist attractions, including the historic city of Axum, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, and the Danakil Depression, known for its otherworldly landscapes.
The airport has a capacity to handle up to 800,000 passengers annually, but as of 2021, it has been serving fewer passengers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, the airport remains an important transportation hub for the region and is expected to play a crucial role in the post-pandemic recovery of the local economy.
Overall, Alula Aba Nega Airport is a modern and well-equipped airport that provides convenient access to the Tigray Region and beyond. Its strategic location, extensive runway, and flight connections make it an important asset for both the local community and visitors to the area.
Terminals at Alula Aba Nega Airport
Alula Aba Nega Airport in Mekelle, Ethiopia has one main terminal building with two levels. The upper level is used for departures, while the lower level is used for arrivals.
The departure area contains check-in counters, security checkpoints, duty-free shops, and restaurants. Passengers can access the boarding gates through the departure lounge where there are seating areas and charging stations for electronic devices.
The arrival area has baggage claim belts and customs and immigration facilities. There are also car rental services available in this area.
The airport also has a separate terminal building for VIP and government officials. This terminal has its own entrance and parking area, as well as lounges and meeting rooms for VIP guests.
Additionally, Alula Aba Nega Airport has a cargo terminal for the handling of goods and packages. The cargo terminal is equipped with modern technology and equipment to ensure efficient and safe handling of cargo.
Overall, the terminals at Alula Aba Nega Airport provide passengers and cargo companies with modern facilities and equipment for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Airlines and Destinations
The Alula Aba Nega Airport is served by numerous airlines that offer domestic and international routes. Ethiopian Airlines operates the majority of flights, with daily connections to Addis Ababa and other major cities in Ethiopia.
Other airlines that operate from the airport include Fly Dubai, which offers seasonal flights to Dubai, and Turkish Airlines, which provides connections to Istanbul. Saudi Arabian Airlines also offers flights to Jeddah and Riyadh.
Domestic airlines that operate from the airport include Ethiopian Regional Airlines, which services smaller cities and towns within Ethiopia. During peak travel periods, additional airlines may offer seasonal routes to popular vacation destinations.
Transportation Options at Alula Aba Nega Airport
Alula Aba Nega Airport, also known as Mekele Airport, is located in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. It is the second-busiest airport in the country and serves as a hub for several airlines. When it comes to transportation options, there are several choices available to passengers arriving at the airport.
One of the most convenient options is to take a shuttle. There are several shuttle services that operate from the airport, taking passengers to various destinations in and around Mekele. These shuttles are usually affordable and offer a comfortable ride. They are also a great way to meet people and get a feel for the local community.
Another option is to rent a car. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, including both local and international chains. Renting a car allows you to explore the area at your own pace and is ideal if you plan to travel outside of Mekele. Just be aware that driving in Ethiopia can be challenging, so make sure you are comfortable with local traffic laws and customs before hitting the road.
If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can take a shuttle bus. These buses operate on set routes and schedules and are typically cheaper than private shuttles or taxis. However, they may not be as comfortable and may take longer to reach your destination depending on your route.
If you are traveling to other parts of Ethiopia, you may want to consider taking a train. The Mekele-Djibouti Railway, which is currently under construction, will connect Ethiopia to the Red Sea port of Djibouti. Once completed, this railway will offer a much-needed transportation link to the rest of Africa and beyond.
In summary, transportation options at Alula Aba Nega Airport are varied and cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you choose a shuttle, car rental, shuttle bus, or train, you can be sure that you will find a convenient and reliable option to get you to your destination.
Parking Options at Alula Aba Nega Airport
Alula Aba Nega Airport provides convenient parking options for passengers. The parking area is located just a few steps away from the terminal building, making it easy to access.
The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options. Rates for short-term parking start at $2 per hour, while long-term parking rates start at $10 per day. The parking lot is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so passengers can park their vehicles for as long as they need.
For travelers who prefer a more premium parking experience, the airport also offers valet parking services. This option allows passengers to drop off their vehicles at the terminal entrance and have them parked by a staff member. Valet parking rates start at $15 per day.
Alula Aba Nega Airport also provides handicapped parking spaces close to the terminal building, reserved for passengers with disabilities. These spaces are available at no additional cost, and passengers must display a valid handicap permit to use them.
Overall, Alula Aba Nega Airport provides several parking options to cater to the different needs of passengers. With affordable rates and convenient locations, parking at the airport is a hassle-free experience.
Check-In Procedures at Alula Aba Nega Airport
Alula Aba Nega Airport (AXU) is a domestic airport that serves the city of Axum in Ethiopia. The airport has a simple check-in process that travelers can complete either online, through self-service kiosks, or traditional methods.
For travelers who prefer to check-in online, they can visit the airline’s website and select the “check-in” option. From there, they will enter their booking details and follow the prompts to select their seat, input their travel document information, and print their boarding pass.
For those who want to use the self-service kiosks, they are available inside the terminal building. Travelers will need to have their booking reference number handy and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the check-in process. Once done, they can print their boarding pass and proceed to the security checkpoint.
Lastly, those who prefer traditional check-in methods can do so by visiting the airline’s check-in counter located inside the terminal building. They will need to present their travel documents, provide their booking reference number, and follow the instructions of the check-in agent to receive their boarding pass.
Overall, the check-in process at Alula Aba Nega Airport is straightforward and caters to the needs of different travelers. It is recommended to arrive at the airport early to avoid any last-minute delays and ensure a smooth travel experience.
Security Procedures and Tips at Alula Aba Nega Airport
Alula Aba Nega Airport has implemented several security procedures to ensure the safety of all passengers and their belongings.
These procedures include baggage screening, body scanning, and random security checks.
To make your security check process smoother, it is recommended to pack your bags neatly and avoid carrying prohibited items such as sharp objects or liquids in excess of 100ml.
Additionally, wearing easily removable clothing and avoiding heavy jewelry can help expedite the security process.
Remember to arrive at the airport with enough time to go through security and always follow the instructions of the security personnel to ensure a safe and efficient airport experience.
Customs and Immigration at Alula Aba Nega Airport
Upon arriving at Alula Aba Nega Airport, passengers must proceed to the immigration counter to present their passport and visa (if required) for inspection. They will also be asked questions regarding their purpose of visit, length of stay, and accommodation arrangements. After clearing immigration, passengers retrieve their luggage from the baggage carousel and proceed to customs.
At customs, passengers must declare any taxable items such as electronics, alcohol, and tobacco. If no items are declared, passengers can proceed through the green channel. However, if a passenger has taxable items to declare, they must proceed through the red channel and pay the corresponding duty fees.
For departing passengers, the process is similar. Passengers must first check-in with their airline and receive their boarding pass before proceeding to immigration. After clearing immigration, passengers must go through security and then proceed to the departure gates. Before boarding, passengers may be asked to present their passport and boarding pass for verification.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes offering a variety of food and beverages.
- Duty-free shops for tax-free shopping of various items including electronics, cosmetics, and souvenirs.
- Banks and ATMs for financial transactions.
- Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport.
- Comfortable lounges for passengers with special needs and VIPs.
- Children’s play area to keep kids entertained.
- Mother and infant rooms for nursing mothers.
- Public telephones for making calls.
- Baggage wrapping services to ensure the safety of luggage during travel.
- Oxygen and first aid services for medical emergencies.
Accessibility Services
Alula Aba Nega Airport offers several facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport has wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms located throughout the airport. The airport also provides wheelchair assistance to passengers who need it.
Passengers with visual or hearing impairments can request assistance from the airport staff. Additionally, the airport has designated parking spaces for passengers with disabilities.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, passengers with disabilities or mobility issues are encouraged to contact the airport prior to their arrival to arrange for any necessary accommodations.
Connecting Flights at Alula Aba Nega Airport
Connecting flights at Alula Aba Nega Airport can be a breeze, with a little bit of preparation and know-how. First, make sure to give yourself ample time between flights. If possible, aim for at least two hours to account for any delays or unexpected issues.
Once you’ve arrived at the airport, follow the signs for connecting flights. If you have baggage that needs to be transferred, make sure to confirm with your airline that it will be taken care of. If not, you’ll need to collect your bags and recheck them at the connecting airline’s counter.
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the layout of the airport before your flight, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unsure where to go. Many airports also have information desks specifically for people in transit.
Finally, keep an eye on the time and stay aware of any flight updates or gate changes. By following these tips and staying organized, you can make your connection at Alula Aba Nega Airport as seamless as possible.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Alula Aba Nega Airport, passengers are directed to a designated baggage claim area.
Passengers can locate their baggage by checking the electronic display screens which show the flight and baggage carousel number.
In the event that baggage is lost or damaged, passengers should immediately report it to the airline’s baggage service office located inside the terminal building.
Passengers will be required to fill out a baggage irregularity report and provide a description of the missing or damaged items.
The airline will then initiate a search for the missing baggage and attempt to locate and return it to the passenger as soon as possible.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
Alula Aba Nega Airport has a medical clinic with experienced doctors and nurses on duty 24/7. An ambulance is also available at the airport in case of emergency.
In addition, the airport has a fire station with a well-trained fire fighting team. The fire station is equipped with modern fire fighting equipment to handle any kind of fire emergency.
The airport also has a designated area for emergency landings and takeoffs. This area is well marked and easily accessible. The airport staff is trained to handle emergency situations and works closely with the local emergency services to ensure a prompt response in case of any emergency.
Hotel Accommodations
For travelers needing a place to stay near Alula Aba Nega Airport, there are several options available. The airport is conveniently located near many hotels and lodges that cater to both budget and luxury travelers.
1. Zelesegged Guest House – 0.5 km from the airport
2. Mulu Hotel – 1.2 km from the airport
3. Sapphire Addis Hotel – 2.3 km from the airport
4. Axis Star Hotel – 3.1 km from the airport
5. Marriott Executive Apartments Addis Ababa – 3.7 km from the airport
Each of these hotels has different amenities and price points, providing options for all types of travelers. Some of the amenities offered include complimentary breakfast, on-site restaurants, free Wi-Fi, and airport shuttle services.
Useful Tips:
Are you planning to travel through Alula Aba Nega Airport? Here are some insider tips to help you navigate and enjoy your time at this airport.
First and foremost, make sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight. Queues can be long, especially during peak travel times. Secondly, don’t forget to pack all the necessary documents such as your passport and boarding pass.
Once you’re inside the airport, take note of the different areas and their functions. There are designated areas for check-in, security screening, and boarding gates. It’s also worth noting the restaurants, shops, and other amenities available.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to approach airport staff for assistance. They’re usually friendly and willing to help. Lastly, make sure to adhere to airport rules and regulations, particularly when it comes to liquids and carry-on baggage.
By following these useful tips, you’ll be able to navigate and enjoy your time at Alula Aba Nega Airport with ease.
Contact Information
Airport Information: +251-11-665 1755
Ethiopian Airlines: +251-11-665 0533
Immigration Office: +251-11-665 0331
Customs Office: +251-11-665 1669
Health Quarantine: +251-11-665 0445
Lost and Found: +251-11-665 2496
Police: +251-11-665 1222
Fire Brigade: +251-11-665 0344
Customer Service: +251-11-665 3357
Other Airports Near Alula Aba Nega Airport and Transportation Options
There are several other airports near Alula Aba Nega Airport that travelers may consider for alternative flight options or layovers.
1. Bahir Dar Airport: Located approximately 170 kilometers away from Alula Aba Nega Airport, Bahir Dar Airport can be reached by taxi or private car.
2. Lalibela Airport: Lalibela Airport is approximately 265 kilometers away from Alula Aba Nega Airport. Travelers can take a taxi or private car to reach the airport.
3. Gondar Airport: Located around 180 kilometers away from Alula Aba Nega Airport, Gondar Airport can be reached by taxi or private car.
4. Axum Airport: Axum Airport is approximately 270 kilometers away from Alula Aba Nega Airport. Travelers can take a taxi or private car to reach the airport.
All of these airports offer domestic flights to various destinations within Ethiopia. It is important to note that transportation options may vary depending on the location and time of day. Consulting with a local transportation provider or travel agent may be helpful in planning a trip to these airports.