Banjul International Airport (BJL)
Yundum, GM 🇬🇲 Large International Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
GBYD
IATA
BJL
Elevation
95 ft
Region
GM-W
Local Time
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GPS Code: GBYD
Local Code: Not available
Location: 13.338° N, -16.652201° E
Continent: Africa
Type: Large International Airport
Keywords: Yundum international Airport
What Travelers Say
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Online Reviews Summary
Banjul International Airport (BJL) generally receives mixed to negative recent traveler reviews, with many passengers expressing frustration over disorganization and a perceived decline in service despite ongoing "improvements." While some appreciate its small size, the overall sentiment points to a challenging experience, particularly during arrival and departure procedures.
What Travelers Love
- Small and navigable: When not overcrowded, the airport's single terminal can be relatively easy to navigate due to its compact size.
- Porters available: Uniformed porters are available to assist with luggage, which can be helpful upon arrival.
- Basic amenities: The airport offers fundamental services such as currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, and small cafes. A business lounge is also available.
- Efficient in low traffic: Some older reviews indicate that passport control and processing can be fast when there aren't multiple flights simultaneously.
Common Complaints
- Lengthy and chaotic arrival/departure process: Travelers frequently report extremely long queues for immigration, check-in, and security, sometimes taking hours. The process often involves paying a "Development tax" or entry fee (around £30 / $20-$30 USD) which contributes to significant delays and frustration.
- Unfriendly and unprofessional staff: Many reviews cite instances of rude, unhelpful, or slow-moving staff, with some passengers reporting attempts by staff to solicit items or question personal belongings (e.g., books in luggage).
- Inadequate terminal facilities and cleanliness: The terminal is often described as basic, lacking sufficient seating, and poorly air-conditioned in the main departure hall. Some reviews mention dreadful toilet facilities and overall poor cleanliness. Recent redevelopment has also led to a "messy" environment.
- Limited and unreliable amenities: Wi-Fi access can be limited and unreliable. Dining and shopping options are minimal, and nothing is open 24 hours.
- Poor information display: Departure boards are noted for often displaying advertisements instead of crucial flight information.
- Taxi negotiations: While taxis are readily available, fares must be negotiated upfront as meters are not used, and communication can be a challenge.
Overall, Banjul International Airport is perceived by many recent travelers as functional but often inefficient and frustrating, largely due to lengthy processing times, additional fees, and perceived issues with staff professionalism and terminal comfort. Travelers are advised to arrive well in advance for departures and be prepared for potential delays and a basic airport experience.
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Airport Routes
Banjul International Airport (BJL) offers 19 flight routes operated by 10 airlines. Major carriers include ASKY Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, Air Senegal and others. Popular destinations from Yundum include Amilcar Cabral Int'l, Blaise Diagne, Brussels, Manchester and London Gatwick.
Route Network Map
Top Routes (by observations)
- Amilcar Cabral Int'l (SID) 3
- Blaise Diagne (DSS) 3
- Brussels (BRU) 1
- Manchester (MAN) 1
- London Gatwick (LGW) 1
- Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) 1
- Lungi Int'l (FNA) 1
- Mohammed V Int'l (CMN) 1
- Nouakchott–Oumtounsy Int'l (NKC) 1
- Conakry Int'l (Gbessia Int'l) (CKY) 1
- General Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) 1
- Istanbul Airport (IST) 1
Newly Discovered
- Lungi Int'l (FNA) new
- Mohammed V Int'l (CMN) new
- Port Bouet (Felix Houphouet Boigny Int'l) (ABJ) new
- London Gatwick (LGW) new
- Istanbul Airport (IST) new
- Conakry Int'l (Gbessia Int'l) (CKY) new
- Blaise Diagne (DSS) new
- Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) new
- Amilcar Cabral Int'l (SID) new
- General Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) new
- Murtala Mohammed Int'l (LOS) new
- Nouakchott–Oumtounsy Int'l (NKC) new
Popular Flight Routes
| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
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Top Airlines
Operating at Banjul International AirportAirlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
ASKY Airlines
SKK
/ KP
|
1 | 89 | 1 | Jan 30, 2026 |
Royal Air Maroc
RAM
/ AT
|
1 | 86 | 1 | Jan 30, 2026 |
|
Air Senegal
SZN
/ HC
|
1 | 76 | 1 | Jan 30, 2026 |
Brussels Airlines
BEL
/ SN
|
3 | 65 | 3 | Jan 30, 2026 |
Turkish Airlines
THY
/ TK
|
2 | 60 | 2 | Jan 30, 2026 |
|
Air Peace
APK
/ P4
|
2 | 55 | 2 | Jan 30, 2026 |
|
ValueJet
FVJ
/ VK
|
1 | 29 | 1 | Jan 29, 2026 |
TUI Airways
TOM
/ BY
|
2 | 27 | 2 | Jan 30, 2026 |
|
TUI Airlines
TFL
/ OR
|
1 | 22 | 1 | Jan 27, 2026 |
TAP Air Portugal
TAP
/ TP
|
1 | 19 | 1 | Jan 29, 2026 |
For Pilots
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14/32 |
11811 ft | 148 ft | ASP | Active Lighted |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| APP | APP | 121.3 MHz |
| GND | GND | 121.9 MHz |
| TWR | TWR | 118.3 MHz |
Ground Transportation
Taxis
Official tourist taxis (typically green) are the primary mode of transport from the airport. They are available directly outside the arrivals hall. Fares to major hotels and tourist areas are regulated and often displayed on a board; it is best to agree on the price with the driver before starting your journey.
Rental Cars
Several car rental agencies, including international brands like Avis and local companies, have counters located within the airport's arrivals hall. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season. An International Driving Permit may be required along with your valid national license.
Public Transportation
There is no direct public bus or train service operating from the airport terminal. The most common form of public transit, shared minibuses known as 'gele-geles', can be found on the main highway outside the airport grounds. This is the cheapest option but is not recommended for first-time visitors with luggage due to crowding and a lack of fixed schedules.