Rwanda's $2 billion airport to revolutionize African air travel

In a strategic move set to redefine African aviation, Rwanda is constructing a $2 billion airport in the Bugesera District, projected to become one of the continent’s busiest. Qatar Airways will hold a 60% stake in this state-of-the-art facility, further acquiring 49% of RwandAir, Rwanda’s flag carrier.

This partnership will unlock access to over 65 global destinations, enhancing Rwanda’s connectivity.

Slated for completion in 2026, the new airport will feature a 30,000-square-meter passenger terminal, equipped with 22 check-in counters, 10 gates, six aerobridges, and the capacity to handle 1.7 million passengers annually. Operations are expected to commence in 2028, as announced by RwandAir CEO Yvonne Manzi Makolo at the Qatar Economic Forum on May 15, 2024.

With this development, Rwanda is set to become a pivotal player in international air travel, fostering economic growth and positioning itself as a major aviation hub in Africa.