Bujumbura Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM)

Bujumbura, BI 🇧🇮 Medium Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

HBBA

IATA

BJM

Elevation

2582 ft

Region

BI-BM

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: HBBA

Local Code: Not available

Location: -3.32402° N, 29.318501° E

Continent: AF

Type: Medium Airport

External Links

Links verified by AI • Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Nearby Points of Interest

What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

Recent traveler sentiment for Bujumbura Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (HBBA (BJM)) indicates a generally low level of satisfaction, with an average rating of 4.9/10, suggesting weak service overall. While basic amenities are available, travelers frequently report inefficiencies and challenges, particularly with security and immigration processes. However, a significant renovation and expansion project currently underway promises future improvements to the airport's infrastructure and facilities.

What Travelers Love
  • Ongoing Modernization: The airport is undergoing a major renovation and expansion project as of August 2024, which includes a runway extension, rehabilitation of aircraft movement and parking areas, a new control tower, and a future new passenger terminal. This indicates a commitment to improving the traveler experience.
  • Professional Airport Transfer Services: Independent airport transfer services like BujaShuttle receive positive reviews for punctual, professional drivers and clean vehicles, offering a stress-free connection to and from the airport.
  • Basic Essential Services: The airport provides essential services such as currency exchange, car rental services, ATMs, and small shops offering local crafts and snacks.
Common Complaints
  • Overall Inefficiency and Weak Service: Travelers rate the airport's overall efficiency and services as very unpopular compared to other airports, contributing to low satisfaction.
  • Security and Immigration Challenges: Security/immigration efficiency is notably unpopular. Past reports mention airport staff making the process difficult and asking for bribes. There are also warnings about the potential confiscation of multiple electronic devices and extended customs delays for import duties.
  • Limited and Basic Facilities: The airport is described as very basic and small, with limited facilities. Cleanliness is only moderately valued. The terminal is not air-conditioned, relying on natural ventilation, which can lead to mosquito problems.
  • Poor Terminal Access: Terminal access is considered very unpopular by travelers.
  • Overpriced Amenities: The bar/café is reportedly overpriced, and shops sell expensive alcohol.

Bujumbura Melchior Ndadaye International Airport currently presents a challenging experience for many travelers due to its limited facilities and perceived inefficiencies in key areas like security and immigration. While private transfer services offer a positive aspect for ground transportation, the ongoing modernization project provides a hopeful outlook for significant improvements in the airport's infrastructure and overall traveler satisfaction in the coming years.

Generated 4 days ago
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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

Popular Flight Routes
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Destination IATA City Aircraft Type Airline Details Route Map
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Top Airlines

Operating at Bujumbura Melchior Ndadaye International Airport
Airlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
1 49 1 Dec 10, 2025
RwandAir
RWD / WB
1 44 1 Dec 10, 2025
1 42 1 Dec 10, 2025
1 36 1 Dec 10, 2025
2 23 2 Dec 10, 2025
1 12 1 Dec 10, 2025
For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
02/20 - ft - ft UNK Active
17/35 11811 ft 148 ft ASP Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
APP APP 119.7 MHz
GND GND 121.9 MHz
TWR TWR 118.1 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency
BJA Bujumbura VOR-DME 112300 kHz
BN Bujumbura NDB 255 kHz
KW Bujumbura NDB 385 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Taxis

Taxis are the most common and readily available transportation option outside the airport's arrivals terminal. Fares are not metered, so it is crucial to negotiate and agree on a price with the driver before beginning your trip. Motorcycle taxis (moto-taxis) are also a popular and cheaper alternative for single travelers with light luggage. Many hotels offer pre-arranged airport shuttle services, which should be booked in advance.

Rental Cars

A limited number of local car rental companies offer services at the airport. It is strongly recommended to book a vehicle in advance to ensure availability. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required along with your valid national driver's license. Hiring a car with a local driver is also a common and often recommended option for visitors unfamiliar with local driving conditions.

Public Transportation

There are no formal public bus or train services that directly connect to the Bujumbura airport terminal. The primary methods for leaving the airport are by taxi, pre-arranged hotel shuttle, or rental car. While public minibuses operate in the city, they do not have a dedicated stop at the airport and are not a convenient option for travelers with luggage.

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Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.