Bosaso / Bender Qassim International Airport (BSA)

Bender Qassim International Airport (IATA: BSA, ICAO: HCMF), located in Bosaso, is the primary aviation hub for Somalia's Puntland state. It serves as a vital gateway for the region's commercial capital, facilitating essential passenger travel, cargo transport, and humanitarian aid. The airport is crucial for connecting the strategic port city to the rest of Somalia, neighboring countries in East Africa, and key destinations in the Middle East.

Originally a basic airfield with a gravel runway, the airport underwent a significant transformation with a major renovation project that concluded in early 2016. This development, funded by a mix of local and international partners, delivered a modern facility with a 2.4-kilometer paved runway, a new terminal building, and upgraded security infrastructure. This upgrade represented a major milestone, greatly enhancing the airport's capacity and safety standards.

The airport is situated on the southwestern outskirts of Bosaso, approximately 8 kilometers from the city center. The journey by road typically takes between 15 and 20 minutes. Travelers can reach the airport via private cars or local taxis, which are the primary mode of transport. Taxis are generally available outside the terminal.

Bender Qassim International handles a mix of domestic and international flights. Key domestic routes connect Bosaso with other major Somali cities like Mogadishu and Garowe. Its international schedule primarily features flights to regional hubs, most notably Dubai, UAE, and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Major carriers operating from BSA include Ethiopian Airlines, Daallo Airlines, and Jubba Airways. It also accommodates regular cargo and charter flights.

The airport's facilities are housed in a single, modern terminal building. The amenities are functional and cater to essential traveler needs, including check-in counters, a baggage claim area, and security screening. Passenger services are modest, with limited options for dining and shopping, typically consisting of small snack bars or cafes rather than full-service restaurants or extensive retail stores.

For those traveling through BSA, it is advisable to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international departure to navigate check-in and security. It is practical to arrange transportation in advance or to agree on a fare with a taxi driver before leaving the airport. As it primarily serves as a point-to-point destination, passengers with onward connections should allow ample time to collect luggage and check in for their next flight.