Tobruk International Airport (TOB)

Adam, LY 🇱🇾 Small Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

HLTQ

IATA

TOB

Elevation

519 ft

Region

LY-BU

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: HLTQ

Local Code: Not available

Location: 31.861° N, 23.907° E

Continent: Africa

Type: Small Airport

Keywords: Gamal Abdel Nasser

About Tobruk International Airport

Updated: Jan 2, 2026

Tobruk International Airport (IATA: TOB, ICAO: HLTQ) serves as the primary air gateway to the city of Tobruk and the surrounding Butnan District in eastern Libya. Located approximately 27 kilometers south of the city center near the small town of Adam, the airport plays a crucial role in connecting this historically significant region with the rest of the country. Its function is essential for civil aviation, business, and administrative travel, providing a vital link over long distances in a large nation.

The airport's history is deeply rooted in its past as a major military airbase. It was originally established as Royal Air Force Station El Adem, a key British military installation that was highly active during the North African Campaign of World War II and later throughout the Cold War. Following the British withdrawal from Libya, the base was handed over to the Libyan Air Force and subsequently developed to accommodate civilian air traffic, transitioning into its current dual-use role. This military heritage is reflected in its robust infrastructure, including a long runway capable of handling various aircraft sizes.

Operations at Tobruk International Airport are focused predominantly on domestic services. The main carriers operating scheduled flights are national airlines such as Libyan Airlines and Afriqiyah Airways. These airlines provide regular connections to key Libyan cities, most notably Mitiga International Airport (MJI) in Tripoli and Benina International Airport (BEN) in Benghazi. Passenger volume is modest, consistent with a regional airport serving a specific geographic area rather than acting as a major international hub.

The airport features a single, functional terminal building designed to handle its passenger flow. Facilities for travelers are basic and practical. Inside, visitors will find check-in counters, a security screening area, and a main departure lounge with seating. Amenities are limited, typically consisting of a small café or kiosk for light refreshments and basic restroom facilities. The experience is straightforward, without the extensive retail or dining options found at larger airports.

For travelers, planning is key. Access between the airport and Tobruk is almost exclusively by road, a journey that takes around 30 minutes. It is highly recommended to pre-arrange a taxi or private car transfer, as public transportation options are not readily available. Due to the airport's small size, check-in and security processes are generally efficient, but arriving 90 minutes to two hours before a domestic flight is advisable. For international journeys, passengers should expect to connect through Tripoli or Benghazi.

AI-Generated Content: This description was compiled using AI from publicly available sources. Information may change; please verify with official airport sources for current details.

What Travelers Say

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Online Reviews Summary

Recent traveler information regarding Tobruk International Airport (HLTQ/TOB) in Tobruk, Libya, indicates a developing airport with efficient security and immigration processes. While explicit traveler reviews expressing overall sentiment are scarce, current data suggests a relatively smooth experience for arrivals and departures in terms of wait times. The airport is undergoing significant development with a new terminal under construction.

What Travelers Love
  • Efficient Security and Immigration: Travelers are likely to appreciate the relatively short wait times at security checkpoints, which are currently estimated at around 28-31 minutes, and immigration, estimated at 8 minutes. This suggests a smooth and efficient processing experience.
  • Ongoing Development: The airport is actively undergoing improvements, with a new passenger terminal under construction as of 2021, planned to include a duty-free zone. This indicates a commitment to enhancing the traveler experience and modernizing facilities.
Common Complaints
  • Limited Public Information on Amenities: Detailed recent traveler reviews specifically addressing the current state and variety of terminal facilities, amenities (such as comprehensive lounges, restaurants, or widespread free Wi-Fi), and cleanliness are largely unavailable. While a new terminal is under construction, the operational status and traveler experience of these new amenities are not widely reported.
  • Restricted Operating Hours: The airport does not operate 24 hours a day, with operating hours typically from sunrise to sunset. This could be an inconvenience for travelers with early morning or late-night flights.
  • Scarcity of Direct Traveler Feedback: There is a general lack of recent, explicit traveler reviews or satisfaction ratings available online, making it difficult to gauge overall traveler sentiment and specific pain points beyond inferred observations.

Tobruk International Airport appears to be an airport in transition, actively working on modernizing its infrastructure with a new terminal. While current data points to efficient security and immigration, the absence of extensive traveler reviews on amenities and services suggests that the airport's full potential regarding passenger experience is still developing. Travelers should plan for transportation via taxi or special bus/train express, and be aware of the airport's sunrise-to-sunset operating hours.

Last updated: 52 days ago
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Airport Routes

Route Network Map

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Top Routes (by observations)

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Top Airlines

Operating at Tobruk International Airport

Airlines by Flight Activity

Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
1 3 1 Nov 21, 2025

For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
02/20 9895 ft 150 ft ASP Active
09/27 9835 ft 150 ft ASP Active
15/33 9865 ft 150 ft ASP Active

Type Description Frequency

Ident Name Type Frequency

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025

Taxis

Taxis are the most common option. You can find private taxis waiting outside the terminal building. There are no meters, so it is essential to negotiate and agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey. For a more reliable option, consider pre-arranging a pickup through your hotel or a local contact.

Rental Cars

Major international car rental companies do not operate at Tobruk Airport. There may be local, independent car hire services available, but these typically cannot be booked online in advance. Arrangements are best made upon arrival, potentially through a local contact or your hotel. An International Driving Permit may be required.

Public Transportation

There is no formal public transportation, such as scheduled buses or trains, that serves Tobruk International Airport. Travelers must rely on taxis or pre-arranged private transfers to get to and from the airport.

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.

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Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.