Kabul International Airport (IATA: KBL, ICAO: OAKB) serves Kabul, AF. It has 33 scheduled routes to 21 destinations in 12 countries, operated by 8 airlines.
- Improvements: Some recent reviews (as of August 2025 and October 2024) mention ongoing improvements and that the airport is "good" with "everything you need".
- Cleanliness (New Terminal): One review from 2012 noted the "new one seems to be great" in contrast to the "ugliest and dirtiest" old international terminal. A May 2024 review also described the airport as "small, clean".
- Basic Amenities: The international terminal is described as having basic amenities to cover travelers' needs, including check-in desks and waiting areas. Food and souvenirs are available.
- On-Schedule Flights: As of spring 2024, international traffic was open, and flights were departing on schedule.
- Extensive Security Checks: This is a recurring and significant complaint. Travelers report multiple body searches and passport checks, both before reaching the boarding gate and even at the plane door. There are numerous checkpoints on roads leading to the airport and several layers of checks before entering the terminal. This leads to long queues outside the airport.
- Luggage Checks: Frustration is expressed over the numerous luggage checks, which can be time-consuming.
- Cleanliness (General): While some note improvements, overall cleanliness is rated as "very unpopular" compared to other airports.
- Lack of ATMs: There are no ATMs at the airport, though cafes may accept and exchange dollars and euros.
- Limited Luxury Amenities: The airport focuses on processing passengers safely and efficiently rather than providing an elaborate commercial experience, meaning no luxury lounges, extensive shopping, or wide variety of dining options.
- Ground Transportation: While public transport is available, pre-arranged private options are strongly recommended for international travelers due to security concerns.
- Sources researched: flight-report.com, aviareviews.com, yandex.com, kabul-int-airport.com, blog.remitly.com*
Bottom line: Kabul International Airport is a functional airport that prioritizes security, requiring travelers to be prepared for stringent and numerous checks. While some improvements have been noted, the experience is generally basic, and travelers should manage expectations regarding amenities and arrive with ample time for security procedures.
Routes from KBL
21 nonstop destinations · 8 airlines.
Airlines at KBL
8 carriers operate scheduled departures.
Route Network Map
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Airport routes
Kabul International Airport (KBL) offers 33 flight routes operated by 8 airlines. Major carriers include Kam Air, Ariana Afghan, FlyDubai and others. Popular destinations from Kabul include Dubai Int'l, Mazar, Herat, Istanbul Airport, Islamabad International Airport.
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Common questions about KBL
Quick answers, straight from the schedule data.
How many destinations have nonstop flights from KBL?
Kabul International Airport has 33 scheduled routes to 21 destinations in 12 countries, operated by 8 airlines.
Which airlines fly from Kabul International Airport?
8 carriers operate scheduled departures, including Kam Air, Ariana Afghan, FlyDubai.
Where is Kabul International Airport located?
Kabul International Airport is located in Kabul, AF, at an elevation of 5877 ft. Its IATA code is KBL and ICAO code is OAKB.