Key Highlights
Here’s a quick look at what you need to know about Ibadan Airport:
- Ibadan Airport serves as a key domestic gateway to the historic city of Ibadan in Southwestern Nigeria.
- Commissioned in 1982, the airport features a single terminal and a 2,400-meter-long runway.
- Currently, domestic airlines like Arik Air and Overland Airways operate flights from the airport.
- The airport is located on Airport Road, about a 30-minute drive from the city center.
- Significant upgrades are underway to prepare the airport for international flight operations, with a target of June 2026.
Introduction
Welcome to Ibadan, one of the oldest and most vibrant cities in Nigeria! Your journey into this historic region likely begins at Ibadan Airport (IBA). Commissioned back in 1982 by the former Senate President, this airport has grown to become a crucial hub for Oyo State. While it currently serves as a domestic airport connecting you to other major Nigerian cities, exciting developments are in motion. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the airport, from its facilities to future plans for an international airport.
Essential Information About Ibadan Airport
Knowing the basics can make your travel experience much smoother. Ibadan Airport, with the official IATA code IBA, is your primary air link to the city. It is conveniently situated on Airport Road, placing it on the outskirts of Ibadan but still only about a 30-minute trip from the bustling city center. This makes getting to and from your flight a relatively quick process.
The airport’s infrastructure was designed to handle domestic traffic efficiently. It features a single terminal building for all arrivals and departures and is equipped with a substantial 2,400-meter runway. Since its inauguration, it has been a cornerstone of domestic travel within Nigeria, connecting Ibadan with other key locations. As the airport undergoes significant changes, this foundational infrastructure is being enhanced to meet modern aviation demands.
Now that you have the basic details, let’s explore the specific amenities and services available to you at the airport.
Facilities and Traveler Services
When you arrive at Ibadan Airport, you will find that the facilities are designed for functionality, focusing on essential travel needs. While the terminal services are somewhat limited compared to larger international hubs, they cover the basics to ensure a comfortable transit. You won’t have to worry about going hungry, as there are food options available.
As part of your travel planning, it’s helpful to know more about the specific passenger amenities, parking, and transportation options available on-site. These services are key to ensuring your journey starts and ends on a positive note.
Passenger Amenities and Lounges
Inside the terminal, your immediate needs are covered. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, Airport Foods offers traditional Nigerian dishes like ogbono soup, giving you a taste of local cuisine right after you land or before you depart.
While the airport itself has limited amenities, several comfortable hotels are located just a short drive away, which is a great convenience for travelers. If you need accommodation for a business trip or a holiday, you have a few excellent choices nearby. These options ensure you can rest comfortably before or after your flight.
Here are a few nearby hotels to consider:
- Owu Crown Hotel: A 4-star hotel just 15 minutes from the airport, offering a pool, fitness center, and airport shuttle.
- Capital Inn Ibadan: This 3-star inn is about 27 km away and features an outdoor pool and fitness center.
- Super K Hotels: Located around 24 km from the airport, this hotel provides a restaurant, bar, and 24-hour business center.
Transportation, Parking, and On-Site Services
Getting to and from Ibadan Airport is straightforward. The airport is located on Airport Road, and metered taxis are readily available to take you to the city center or your hotel. This provides a reliable way to reach your final destination without any hassle. You can also pre-book a vehicle for added convenience.
For those driving to the airport, Ibadan Airport offers open-air parking suitable for both short-term and long-term stays. This service gives you a secure place to leave your vehicle while you travel. In addition to transport and parking, the airport provides other essential services to facilitate your journey.
These on-site services include:
- Metered taxis for transport
- Open-air parking
- Car rental booking services
- Currency exchange bureaus
Flight Options and Destinations
Ibadan Airport currently focuses on domestic travel, connecting the city to other key destinations within Nigeria. Airlines such as Arik Air and Overland Airways are the primary carriers operating from the airport, offering reliable services for both business and leisure travelers. You can easily fly to major hubs from Ibadan, making it a convenient starting point for your travels across the country.
Excitingly, the airport is on a path to expansion. While current routes are domestic, there are ambitious plans to introduce international flights, which will connect Ibadan directly to the world. These upgrades include extending the runway to accommodate larger aircraft for future routes.
Domestic and Potential International Routes
Currently, you can book flights from Ibadan to other major Nigerian cities. The airport serves as an important link in the nation’s domestic aviation network. Popular routes connect Ibadan with key commercial and administrative centers, making travel within the country more accessible.
The direct flight network from Ibadan is focused on domestic hubs. Here are some of the routes that have been available:
| From | To |
|---|---|
| Abuja (ABV) | Ibadan (IBA) |
| Lagos (LOS) | Ibadan (IBA) |
Looking ahead, the Oyo State Government has announced that Ladoke Akintola Airport is set to begin international flight operations by June 2026. This development is part of a major upgrade project to modernize the airport and expand its capacity. This will potentially open up routes to destinations beyond Nigeria, including other parts of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, though specific new routes to cities like Kano, Enugu, or Calabar have not yet been confirmed.
Booking Flights and Finding Cheap Deals
Booking your flight from Ibadan Airport is simple with online travel platforms. You can easily search for flights, compare prices from different airlines, and secure your ticket in minutes. How can you book a flight online? Just enter your departure city, destination (Ibadan), travel dates, and the number of travelers to see a list of available options.
Are there cheap flight options available? Absolutely! To find the best deals, it’s wise to book your tickets in advance. Flight prices often increase as the departure date gets closer, so planning ahead can lead to significant savings. Final prices are not guaranteed until you check out, as they update in real-time based on availability.
Here are a few tips for finding affordable flights:
- Be flexible with your travel dates if possible.
- Compare fares from different airlines like Arik Air and Overland Airways.
- Book your flight well in advance of your travel date.
- Sign up for newsletters from travel agencies to get alerts on flight deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Ibadan airport been upgraded to international status?
Not yet, but the process is underway. The Oyo State Government has announced a major upgrade project for Ibadan Airport. The goal is to achieve international airport status and commence international flight operations by June 2026. The former senate president commissioned the airport in 1982 for domestic use.
Is Ibadan airport currently open during upgrades?
The airport was temporarily closed in March 2025 to accelerate the upgrade of the runway and terminal. However, the plan is for domestic flight services to resume by the end of 2025 once key phases of the construction are complete and regulatory approvals are secured.
What facilities are available for travelers at Ibadan airport?
Facilities at the Ibadan terminal are currently limited but cover the essentials. Travelers can find food vendors, open-air parking for short and long-term stays, and metered taxis for transport. The ongoing upgrade aims to significantly improve and expand the facilities to meet international airport standards.