Key Highlights
Planning a trip through Southern Nigeria? Here’s a quick look at what you need to know about the Port Harcourt International Airport:
- It is the third-busiest airport in Nigeria, serving Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State.
- The airport features two terminals, including a new international terminal opened in 2018.
- You can catch both domestic and international flights from this key travel hub.
- Major airlines like Air France, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways operate from here.
- Its IATA code is PHC, which is useful when booking your flights.
Introduction
Welcome to your guide to Port Harcourt International Airport (PHC)! Situated in the heart of Nigeria’s Rivers State, this airport is a crucial gateway for travelers heading to the southern part of the country. As the nation’s third-busiest airport, it serves as a vital hub for both business and leisure travel, offering an alternative to larger airports like Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos. Whether you’re flying for work or pleasure, this guide will help you navigate PHC with ease.
Key Facts About Port Harcourt International Airport
Port Harcourt International Airport, with the airport code PHC, is a public airport operated by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). It plays a significant role in connecting the region to the rest of the world and is overseen by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority to ensure operational standards.
Over the years, the airport has served over a million passengers annually, making it a bustling center for travel. It hosts several well-known airlines and connects passengers to numerous key destinations. Let’s explore more about its specific location and the flight options available to you.
Location and Airport Code
Wondering where exactly the airport is? Port Harcourt International Airport is located in the town of Omagwa, which serves the major hub of Port Harcourt, the capital city of the Rivers State in Nigeria. Its strategic position makes it an essential access point for the country’s oil and gas industry and a convenient starting point for exploring the Niger Delta region.
When you book your flights, you will use its International Air Transport Association (IATA) code, which is PHC. This three-letter code is used by airlines and travel agents worldwide to identify the airport.
For aviation professionals and flight planning, the airport is also known by its International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) code, DNPO. While you won’t typically use this for booking tickets, it’s a key identifier for air traffic control and pilots.
Airlines and Flight Destinations
Port Harcourt International Airport offers a good mix of domestic and international flights, connecting you to major cities within Nigeria and beyond. Popular domestic routes include frequent flights to Lagos and Abuja, with airlines like Air Peace and Arik Air serving these destinations.
For international travel, you can fly directly to global hubs. Airlines such as Air France, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways provide connections to Paris, Frankfurt, and Doha, respectively. These routes make international travel more convenient for residents and visitors in Southern Nigeria. To find cheap flights, it’s best to book in advance and compare prices on various travel websites.
Here is a look at some of the airlines and their destinations from Port Harcourt:
| Airline | Destinations |
|---|---|
| Aero Contractors | Abuja, Lagos |
| Air Peace | Abuja, Kano, Lagos |
| Arik Air | Abuja, Lagos |
| Lufthansa | Frankfurt |
| Qatar Airways | Doha |
| Air France | Paris |
Passenger Experience and Facilities
The passenger experience at PH International Airport has seen significant changes over the years. Following a period of notoriety and an emergency shutdown in 2006 for extensive repair work, the airport has undergone major upgrades. The most notable improvement is the new international terminal, which opened in 2018.
This modernization effort aimed to improve terminal amenities and overall passenger comfort. With its convenient location, the airport is easily accessible, ensuring a smoother start to your journey. Now, let’s take a look at the specific services you can expect inside the terminals.
Terminal Amenities and Services
The airport features two main terminals to handle both domestic and international passenger traffic. A significant renovation project led to the commissioning of the new international terminal by the Executive President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari, on October 25, 2018. This development was a major step toward enhancing the airport’s facilities.
While detailed lists of shops can vary, the renovation aimed to bring the airport up to modern standards. Passengers can generally expect improved services and a more comfortable environment compared to previous years. For the most current information, it’s best to check with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), as there isn’t a dedicated official website for the airport itself.
Key facilities and services from the renovation include:
- Modernized check-in counters
- Improved seating areas for passengers
- Upgraded baggage handling systems
- Enhanced air conditioning
- Better passenger processing facilities
Conclusion
Port Harcourt International Airport serves as a crucial gateway for travelers heading to Southern Nigeria, offering a range of amenities and services designed to enhance your journey. Understanding the facilities available, along with key facts about the airport, can significantly improve your travel experience. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, having access to the right information can ease your travel process. As you plan your visit, take into account the airport’s features and resources, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out for more information. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there international flights from Port Harcourt?
Yes, Port Harcourt International Airport offers several international flights. Airlines like Air France, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways operate routes to major global destinations, including Paris, Frankfurt, and Doha. You can connect to many other cities worldwide from these hubs, making Harcourt a convenient international gateway.
How can I track live flight departures from Port Harcourt Airport?
To track live flight departures from Port Harcourt (PHC), it is best to use online flight tracking websites or check directly with your airline. While there is no official website for the airport, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) may provide updates. These resources offer real-time information on flight statuses.
What is the safety record of Port Harcourt International Airport?
The airport has had a mixed safety record, with notable incidents in the past. However, these events, including an emergency shutdown in 2006 due to an electrical fire and safety concerns of the engineers, prompted significant overhauls. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has since overseen upgrades to improve safety standards.