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Khartoum Airport
Khartoum International Airport (KRT) in Sudan in facts, map and passenger information with a virtual video landing at Khartoum Airport. Khartoum International Airport was established shortly after Sudan gained independence in 1956 and was seen as a crucial element in fostering trade, tourism, and diplomatic relations between the new nation, its neighbours and the wider international community. The airport's location, at the confluence of the Blue and White Nile rivers, naturally made Khartoum a significant transit point. Over the years, the airport witnessed expansions and upgrades, reflecting the growing demand for air travel and the nation's commitment to modern infrastructure. Given the current airport's limitations, a New Khartoum International Airport was scheduled for completion in 2010 (later moved back to 2022) due to Sudan's current internal difficulties. | |
The new airport is destined to have two 4,000 metres (13,000 ft) runways, a passenger terminal of 86,000 square metres (930,000 sq ft) and a 300-room international hotel; however construction has been suspended since 2021. In its prime, the existing Khartoum International Airport connected Khartoum to numerous domestic and international destinations through the country's national carrier, Sudan Airways. Alongside it, a multitude of foreign airlines operated scheduled flights, linking Sudan to major cities across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. These airlines offered both passenger and cargo transport to charter flights. The presence of such a wide range of carriers underscored Khartoum's significance as a regional aviation hub. Major international carriers regularly touched down at KRT, bringing in travellers from afar and carrying Sudanese citizens to destinations worldwide.
The destinations served by Khartoum International Airport were as varied as the people who travelled through its gates. Domestically, KRT was the primary gateway to the vast expanse of Sudan, connecting the capital to major cities like Port Sudan on the Red Sea coast, El Obeid in the west, and Juba (prior to South Sudan's independence) in the south. Internationally, key routes included those to major hubs in the Middle East, such as Dubai, Jeddah, Riyadh, and Cairo, catering to significant trade and religious travel.
European cities like London, Frankfurt, and Rome were also regular destinations, facilitating business and cultural exchanges. African capitals such as Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and Lagos were part of the route network, strengthening regional ties. While the current situation has undoubtedly impacted the breadth of these connections, the historical reach of Khartoum International Airport demonstrated its ambition to be a truly global connector.
Tracking passenger numbers at Khartoum International Airport provides a clear indicator of its activity levels and its importance to Sudan's transportation infrastructure. Before recent geopolitical challenges, the airport consistently handled millions of passengers annually. These figures reflected a growing middle class, increased business travel, and a significant number of Sudanese diaspora returning home or visiting family.
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