Lois Larson
Kabul International Airport (KBL / OAKB) has been subjected to criticism for its poor facilities, long lines, unorganized waiting areas, and aggressive porters. However, recent improvements have been noted, including upgrades to facilities, the addition of a new lounge, and the opening of several new eateries. Unfortunately, in 2021, a suicide bombing attack at the airport killed 13 US service members and approximately 170 Afghan civilians.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Facilities | Upgraded |
| Lounge | New, but not connected with Emirates/FlyDubai |
| Eateries | Several new options |
| Immigration officials | Looking for bribes |
| Porters | Aggressive |
| Security personnel | Professional |
| Security area | Small and crowded |
| Bathrooms | Dirty and terrible |
| Waiting areas | Crowded and unorganized |
| Check-in | Long lines |
| Immigration officials | Slow |
| Check-in recommendation | 2 hours before departure for short-haul, 3 hours for long-haul |
| Notable incidents | 2021 suicide bombing attack |
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What You'll Learn
Airport security and immigration
In recent years, there have been improvements made to the airport, including the addition of a new lounge and several new eateries. The facilities have been upgraded, and the airport is reportedly cleaner. Security personnel are described as professional for the most part.
However, bribery remains an issue, with some immigration officials reportedly looking for bribes. The bathrooms have been criticised as being dirty and in poor condition, with travellers reporting dirty sinks and wet floors.
In 2021, a suicide bombing attack at the airport killed 13 US service members and approximately 170 Afghan civilians. This tragic event underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by Kabul International Airport.
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Airport facilities and eateries
Kabul International Airport is located in the northern part of Kabul, Afghanistan. It is one of the country's main international airports, capable of housing over a hundred military and civilian aircraft. The airport has improved over the years and is now cleaner, with upgraded facilities. There is a new lounge that one can purchase entry to, and several new eateries have been opened.
Prior to the withdrawal of US-led forces in 2021, the airport provided scheduled flights to and from China, India, Iran, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, and the Persian Gulf region. The most frequently serviced destination from the airport has been Dubai in the UAE, with multiple passenger airlines flying the route and some operating multiple daily flights. Other major airports near Kabul include Bagram Air Base in Parwan Province to the north, Jalalabad Airport in Nangarhar Province to the east, Khost International Airport in Khost Province to the southeast, and Bamyan Airport in Bamyan Province to the northwest.
The airport was originally named Khwaja Rawash Airport as it was built in an area called Khwaja Rawash. It was renamed Kabul Airport in 1960 after the Soviet Union built a terminal and a concrete runway. From 2014 to 2021, it was named Hamid Karzai International Airport in honour of former president Hamid Karzai. After the Taliban returned to power in 2021, the name was changed back to Kabul International Airport.
The airport sits at an altitude of approximately 1,791 m (5,876 ft) above sea level and is surrounded by parts of the Hindu Kush mountains.
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Check-in process and waiting areas
The check-in process at Kabul Airport tends to vary depending on the airline. It is recommended to check the website of the airline in question for specific information. However, as a general guideline, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure for short-haul flights and three hours before departure for long-haul flights.
The check-in process at Kabul Airport typically involves presenting travel documents, such as a passport and visa (if required), to the check-in agent. Passengers may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of a negative COVID-19 test or other health requirements, depending on their destination and the current pandemic regulations. It is important to have all the necessary paperwork ready before approaching the check-in counter to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
After checking in, passengers will proceed through security checks, which typically involve passing through metal detectors and having their carry-on luggage inspected. It is advisable to arrive early and allow ample time for this process, as the security area at Kabul Airport can be small and crowded, leading to potential delays.
The waiting areas at Kabul Airport have been described as crowded and disorganized, with reports of pushing and shoving. There are allegations of aggressive porters and hustlers soliciting bribes within the airport premises. However, the security personnel are generally considered professional and diligent in their duties.
To enhance comfort during the waiting period, Kabul Airport has recently introduced improvements and upgrades to its facilities. A new lounge has been added, although it is not yet affiliated with specific airlines. Passengers can purchase entry to this lounge, which may offer a calmer and more relaxed environment compared to the main waiting areas. Additionally, several new eateries have been opened, providing passengers with a variety of dining options while they await their flights.
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2021 suicide bombing attack
On 26 August 2021, two suicide bombers and gunmen targeted crowds of Afghans flocking to Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport. The attack occurred during the final days of a massive airlift that had attracted thousands of people seeking to flee the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. The Taliban's fall of Kabul on 15 August 2021 had made the airport the only route out of the country.
At Abbey Gate, one of the airport entrances, a suicide bomber detonated an explosive belt. Gunfire erupted after the explosion, and all airport gates were closed. ISIS–K gunmen opened fire into the crowd, and US troops returned fire. Reporters and eyewitnesses attributed some of the gunfire and deaths after the explosion to panic among US troops.
The attack killed 13 US service members and approximately 170 Afghan civilians. Many nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the European Commission, condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the victims and troops conducting evacuations.
In the aftermath of the attack, US diplomats in Kabul warned American citizens to leave the airport due to security threats. The embassies of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia had also warned of high-security threats before the attack. On 27 August, the US military launched an airstrike against a vehicle carrying three ISIS–K members in Nangarhar Province, killing two and injuring one. The two killed individuals were described as "high-profile ISIS targets" and "planners and facilitators" by Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby.
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Delays and on-time performance
Firstly, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport well in advance of their scheduled departure time, with recommended check-in times being two hours for short-haul flights and three hours for long-haul flights. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in delays, particularly during peak travel periods.
Secondly, the efficiency of security checks can impact on-time performance. The security area at Kabul International Airport has been described as small and crowded, with long lines, aggressive porters, and slow immigration officials. These factors can contribute to delays, especially if there are issues with documentation or baggage screening.
Additionally, the conduct of airport personnel can affect the timely departure of flights. Reports of immigration officials seeking bribes and the presence of hustlers within the airport premises can hinder the smooth flow of passenger processing. Delays may also arise from the condition of airport facilities, including dirty and wet floors, unclean bathrooms, and disorganized boarding procedures, which can create a challenging environment for passengers and staff alike.
To mitigate potential delays, passengers should familiarize themselves with airline-specific check-in requirements and remain vigilant about their surroundings, especially in crowded areas. While some factors contributing to delays are beyond individual control, being proactive and allowing ample time for check-in and security procedures can enhance the chances of on-time departure.
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Frequently asked questions
The facilities at Kabul Airport have been described as poor. Reviews describe long lines, slow immigration officials, crowded waiting areas, and dirty bathrooms. However, the airport has improved in recent years, with a new lounge and eateries.
It is recommended that you arrive at Kabul Airport at least two hours before departure for short-haul flights and three hours before departure for long-haul flights. However, check-in times may vary depending on the airline.
A suicide bombing attack at Kabul Airport in 2021 killed 13 U.S. service members and approximately 170 Afghan civilians.
Tuesday is the busiest day at Kabul Airport, with an average of one flight departing the airport.
