Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC)

Nouakchott, MR 🇲🇷 Large International Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

GQNO

IATA

NKC

Elevation

9 ft

Region

MR-NKC

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: GQNO

Local Code: Not available

Location: 18.31° N, -15.969722° E

Continent: AF

Type: Large International Airport

Keywords: Nouakchott Oumtounsy

Arrivals
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Departures
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External Links

Official Website Wikipedia Live Flights
Nearby Points of Interest

What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

Travelers' experiences at Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC) are generally mixed, describing a relatively new and modern facility that is functional but often lacks the amenities and efficiency found in larger international hubs. While praised for its cleanliness, recurring issues with services and inconsistent processes frequently temper overall satisfaction.

What Travelers Love
  • Modern and Relatively New: The airport, opened in 2016, is a newer facility compared to its predecessor, with a modern design and a single terminal.
  • General Cleanliness: Many travelers note the airport is well-maintained and clean, including its toilets.
  • Efficient Immigration (when lines are short): When not crowded, the immigration and security processes can be relatively quick. Current estimates suggest immigration wait times around 8 minutes.
  • Visa on Arrival Process: The visa on arrival procedure is generally considered straightforward for most nationalities, though queues can be long.
Common Complaints
  • Limited Amenities and Food Options: The airport has very few restaurants, cafes, and shops, particularly past security, with some travelers reporting difficulty finding water inside.
  • Unreliable WiFi: While available, the WiFi can be inconsistent and often cuts out, with reliable access primarily limited to the airport lounge.
  • ATM Malfunctions: Multiple reports indicate that ATMs at the airport are frequently out of service, making it difficult to obtain local currency.
  • Inconsistent Security and Customs Experience: Security checks can be inefficient with multiple checkpoints, and some travelers have reported unusual searches for currency after immigration. Security wait times are estimated at around 26-28 minutes.
  • Transportation Challenges: Taxis are available, but it is advised to pre-arrange rides, especially at night, as drivers may not be readily waiting. Negotiation is required for fares, and language barriers with local drivers can occur.
  • Lack of Overnight Stay Facilities: The airport is not suitable for sleeping overnight inside the terminal, with no dedicated rest areas or cots.

Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport serves as a functional gateway to Mauritania, offering basic services in a modern setting. However, travelers should anticipate a somewhat austere experience with limited amenities and be prepared for potential inconsistencies in security and transportation, particularly by arranging onward travel in advance and carrying some cash.

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This summary is automatically generated by AI based on web research of traveler reviews and experiences. AI-generated content may not always be 100% accurate.

Current Weather Conditions

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Airport Routes

Top Routes (by observations)
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Top Airlines

Operating at Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport
Airlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
Mauritania
MAI / L6
7 271 7 Dec 10, 2025
1 110 1 Dec 10, 2025
2 103 2 Dec 10, 2025
Air France
AFR / AF
2 83 2 Dec 10, 2025
Air Algerie
DAH / AH
1 54 1 Dec 10, 2025
1 46 1 Dec 9, 2025
Air Senegal
SZN / HC
1 43 1 Dec 10, 2025
2 38 2 Dec 6, 2025
Tunisair
TAR / TU
1 30 1 Dec 7, 2025
Swiftair
SWT / WT
1 13 1 Dec 7, 2025
Showing top 10 airlines by flight activity. Data includes observed departures and route networks from this airport.
For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
06/24 7875 ft 148 ft concrete Active Lighted
16/34 11155 ft 197 ft concrete Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
ATIS (en) - 127.7 MHz
ATIS (fr) - 126.6 MHz
SMC GND 121.7 MHz
TWR - 118.4 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Taxis

Taxis are the primary and most readily available mode of transport from the airport. They are located outside the arrivals terminal. Fares are not metered, so it is crucial to negotiate and agree on a price with the driver before beginning the trip. The journey to the city center is approximately 25 km and takes around 30-40 minutes.

Rental Cars

Several car rental companies, including international brands like Europcar and Sixt, as well as local providers, have counters inside the airport terminal. It is highly recommended to book a vehicle in advance to ensure availability and secure better rates. An International Driving Permit may be required along with your standard license.

Public Transportation

There is no formal public bus or train service connecting the airport directly to Nouakchott's city center. The main alternatives to taxis are pre-booked private transfers or shuttle services, which are often arranged through hotels. It is advisable to check with your accommodation to see if they provide an airport shuttle.

Nearby Airports

No nearby airports found within reasonable distance.
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.