Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport (BCU)

Bauchi, NG 🇳🇬 Medium Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

DNBC

IATA

BCU

Elevation

1965 ft

Region

NG-BA

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: DNBC

Local Code: Not available

Location: 10.482833° N, 9.744° E

Continent: Africa

Type: Medium Airport

Keywords: Bauchi State Airport

What Travelers Say

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Online Reviews Summary

Recent traveler sentiment for Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport (DNBC (BCU)) in Bauchi, NG, generally describes it as a contemporary and welcoming gateway to the northeastern part of Nigeria. The airport is designed for efficiency and offers modern amenities within its modest-sized terminal, with staff often highlighted for their professionalism and hospitality.

What Travelers Love
  • Modern Amenities and Local Flair: The airport's terminal, while modest, is equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable transit experience. Travelers can find shops offering local crafts and travel essentials, as well as dining facilities serving local culinary delights like suya, providing a taste of Bauchi's culture.
  • Professional Security and Customs: Security and customs procedures are reportedly managed with professionalism, aiming for a smooth process, and staff are noted for embodying the renowned hospitality of Bauchi.
  • Connectivity and Parking: The airport serves as a vital international gateway, supporting both domestic and some international flights, enhancing the region's accessibility. Ample parking is available on-site, and transportation options like taxis and car rentals facilitate easy access to Bauchi city.
  • Free Wi-Fi: The airport offers free Wi-Fi for connectivity.
Common Complaints
  • Operational Issues and Delays: In 2022, the Bauchi State Government accused the airport management of "deliberate poor operations," citing frequent flight cancellations and postponements, as well as "long unnecessary delays." There were also allegations of lights being "rampantly switched off" when airlines were about to depart due to a lack of effective maintenance.
  • Wi-Fi Performance: While free Wi-Fi is available, travelers might need to exercise patience during peak times.

Overall, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport is presented as a functional and inviting airport with modern facilities that aim to offer a comfortable experience. While it has been praised for its amenities and welcoming staff, past concerns regarding operational efficiency and flight disruptions have been raised. The airport was handed over to the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in November 2023 for improved management and economic development, which could lead to further enhancements in traveler experience.

Last updated: 1 weeks ago
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Airport Routes

Route Network Map

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Top Routes (by observations)

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Popular Flight Routes

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Top Airlines

Operating at Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport

Airlines by Flight Activity

Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
Rano Air
RAN / R4
1 9 1 Jan 27, 2026

For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
17/35 11154 ft 148 ft ASP Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
TWR - 124.5 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025

Taxis

Local taxis and private car hire services are the primary means of transportation from the airport. They are readily available outside the arrivals terminal. It is standard practice to negotiate and agree upon the fare with the driver before the journey begins.

Rental Cars

There are no major international car rental agencies with desks at the airport. Car rentals can be arranged in advance through local providers in Bauchi city or via your hotel, which can often organize an airport pickup. These services frequently include the option of hiring a car with a driver.

Public Transportation

There are no formal, scheduled public bus or train services that connect directly to Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport. The most reliable and common options for travel to and from the airport are taxis or pre-arranged private vehicles.

AI-Generated Content: This ground transportation information was compiled using AI from publicly available sources. Prices, schedules, and availability may change; please verify with official airport or transportation provider websites before traveling.

Nearby Airports

Gombe Lawanti International Airport
GMO • DNGO
Gombe, NG
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~128 km away
Yakubu Gowon Airport
JOS • DNJO
Jos, NG
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~134 km away
Gombe Lawanti International Airport
GMO • DNGO
Gombe, NG
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~128 km away
Yakubu Gowon Airport
JOS • DNJO
Jos, NG
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~134 km away
Bauchi Airport
DNBA
Bauchi, NG
Small Airport
~22 km away
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.