Burkina Faso is gearing up for a major aviation milestone with the imminent opening of the Ouagadougou-Donsin Airport. The state-of-the-art facility is set to replace the ageing Thomas Sankara International Airport in the capital, Ouagadougou, marking a new era for the country’s air transport sector.
The long-awaited airport, located 35 kilometres north of Ouagadougou in Donsin, was first proposed in 2010. However, due to financial and logistical setbacks, construction only began in September 2021—11 years after the original plans. Now, with the project nearing completion, Burkina Faso is poised to benefit from enhanced connectivity and economic growth.
Why the change?
The current Ouagadougou airport, built in the 1960s, has struggled to keep up with the rapid urban expansion surrounding it. Situated in a densely populated area, it poses environmental and safety risks while also suffering from space constraints. Handling 98 percent of Burkina Faso’s commercial air traffic, the airport has long been operating beyond its intended capacity, making the need for a new facility critical.
The Ouagadougou-Donsin Airport is expected to be a game-changer for the country’s aviation industry. Designed to accommodate larger aircraft and increased passenger numbers, the airport is set to boost regional and international connectivity.
The project has received substantial funding, including loans from the West African Development Bank and ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development, reinforcing its importance as a strategic asset for the region.
Beyond its role as a transport hub, the new airport is expected to stimulate economic development, attract investment, and create jobs. With a modernised facility, Burkina Faso can strengthen its position as a key player in West African aviation, providing a crucial gateway for trade and tourism.
As Burkina Faso prepares to open the doors to its new aviation hub, the Ouagadougou-Donsin Airport stands as a symbol of progress and ambition, paving the way for a more connected and prosperous future.
