Guide to Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ), Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Written by :
Lewis K.

Posted on :
August 11th, 2025

Tags :
Travel Experiences In Africa, Airport Guide,

A Guide to Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ), Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (IATA: ABJ, ICAO: DIAP), also known as Port Bouët Airport, is the main gateway to Abidjan and one of West Africa’s busiest international airports. Located approximately 16 kilometers from Abidjan city center, ABJ plays a critical role in connecting travelers to Côte d’Ivoire, the wider ECOWAS region, and global destinations.

Whether you’re visiting for business, tourism, or transit, this comprehensive Abidjan airport guide provides essential insights for navigating the airport, including terminal layout, airlines, lounges, transport services, and traveler tips.

Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport [ABJ]

Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport is named after the country’s first president and is located in the Port Bouët district. It serves as a hub for international flights from Abidjan as well as domestic and regional travel. As Côte d’Ivoire’s primary international gateway, the airport is well-equipped to handle millions of passengers annually.

Travelers benefit from:

  • Efficient immigration and customs procedures

  • Multilingual signage in French and English

  • Business-friendly amenities

  • Secure and accessible facilities

  • Multiple lounges and VIP services at ABJ airport

Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport Map

The Félix Houphouët Boigny Airport map reveals a single-terminal layout with clearly designated zones for arrivals, departures, and transit passengers. The airport is compact but modern, making it easy to navigate.

Ground Level (Level 0)FélixInternational Airport Map

  • Arrival hall for both international and domestic flights

  • Baggage claim areas

  • Immigration, customs, and health screening

  • Access to chauffeur services at Abidjan airport and taxi stands

  • Rental car desks and SIM card vendors

First Level (Level 1)Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport Map 1st floor

  • Departure check-in counters

  • Airline ticketing offices

  • Security screening

  • Duty-free shops

  • Boarding gates for domestic and international flights

Second Level (Level 2)

  • Airport lounges at ABJ

  • Airline offices and administrative departments

  • Restaurants and viewing areas

Terminals at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport

ABJ has one main terminal divided into two sections:

Which Terminal is for International Flights in Abidjan?

The international wing handles flights from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and other African countries. It includes:

  • Dedicated customs and immigration checkpoints

  • Duty-free retail

  • Private jet charter Abidjan facilities

  • Airline lounges and VIP areas

Which Terminal is for Domestic Flights in Abidjan?

The domestic wing manages all internal flights within Côte d’Ivoire. You’ll find:

  • Quick baggage drop and check-in

  • Flights to cities like Bouaké, San Pedro, and Korhogo

  • Regional carriers offering reliable service

Lounges at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport

Whether you’re flying for business, transiting through Abidjan, or simply seeking a more peaceful pre-flight experience, Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) offers several airport lounges designed to provide premium comfort, privacy, and convenience.

Lounges at ABJ serve both international and domestic travelers and cater to different access levels, including business class passengers, loyalty program members, and those who prefer pay-per-use lounge access.

✨ 1. Salon VIP Ivoire (Ivoire Lounge); International Departures

Location: After passport control, near Gate 3
Access:

  • Business/First class passengers on select airlines (Air France, Brussels Airlines, etc.)

  • Priority Pass, LoungeKey, DragonPass

  • Pay-per-use available at entrance (space permitting)

Amenities:

  • Comfortable, air-conditioned seating area

  • Free high-speed Wi-Fi

  • Complimentary snacks, hot meals, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages

  • Clean, private restrooms and shower facilities

  • TV screens, newspapers, and international magazines

  • Charging stations and work desks

  • Flight information displays

  • Quiet area for resting

This lounge is the most popular among international travelers due to its strategic location and well-rounded services.

💼 2. Air France: Business Class Lounge; International Departures

Location: Terminal 1, Airside
Access:

  • Air France and SkyTeam business/first class passengers

  • Flying Blue Elite Plus members

Amenities:

  • French and international buffet menu with wine and champagne options

  • Premium espresso bar

  • Business corner with desks and printers

  • Lounge seating with ample privacy

  • Shower rooms with toiletries and towels

  • Reading materials and press section

  • Priority boarding notifications

Ideal for business travelers heading to Europe or connecting through Paris.

🍃 3. Air Côte d’Ivoire Business Lounge – Domestic & Regional Departures

Location: Airside, domestic zone
Access:

  • Air Côte d’Ivoire business class travelers

  • Smiles frequent flyer program Elite members

  • Invitation-based entry for VIPs

Amenities:

  • Light snacks and cold beverages

  • Coffee and tea station

  • Comfortable seating with views of the runway

  • Business desk and charging ports

  • Free Wi-Fi

  • Newspapers in French and English

  • Dedicated staff for passenger assistance

This is the go-to lounge for regional African travelers flying within Côte d’Ivoire or to ECOWAS destinations.

🌐 4. VIP Lounge (Presidential / Protocol Lounge) – Special Delegations Only

Location: Separate terminal entrance near the Presidential Pavilion
Access:

  • Reserved for diplomatic delegations, government officials, heads of state, and high-level VIPs

  • Not accessible to the general public

Amenities:

  • Private rooms for meetings and rest

  • On-call protocol officers and customs processing

  • Limousine and escort coordination

  • Security screening in a private area

  • Full catering and bar services

  • Executive concierge support

  • Lounge attendants and interpreters

While not open to regular travelers, it represents the airport’s high-level VIP services at ABJ Airport for official and executive use.

🛋️ Key Features of All Lounges at ABJ

  • Comfort & Privacy: All lounges offer cushioned seating, less crowded space, and ambient lighting.

  • Refreshments: Vary by lounge but generally include soft drinks, coffee, tea, light snacks, and full meals.

  • Wi-Fi & Workspaces: High-speed internet and laptop-friendly seating areas help business travelers stay productive.

  • Entertainment: Lounge TVs, magazines, international newspapers, and sometimes local Ivorian press.

  • Flight Info: Monitors provide up-to-date boarding details so you never miss a flight.

  • Showers (Selected Lounges): Available in Ivoire Lounge and Air France Lounge for long-haul passengers.

🎟️ How to Access Lounges at ABJ

  • Business/First Class Tickets: Most full-service airlines include lounge access for premium travelers.

  • Membership Programs: Priority Pass, LoungeKey, DragonPass, Flying Blue Elite, and others.

  • Pay-Per-Use: Some lounges allow walk-in access for economy class passengers for a fee (typically $30–$50 USD).

  • Credit Cards: Select premium cards (e.g., Visa Infinite, Mastercard World Elite) may include free lounge entry.

⏰ Operating Hours

  1. Lounges typically open 2–3 hours before the first international flight and stay open until the last scheduled departure.

  2. Operating hours may vary depending on flight schedules and airline agreements.

Whether you’re flying regionally or internationally, the lounges at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport offer a quiet, well-equipped space to recharge and relax. Be it for work, rest, or dining, these lounges ensure that your journey begins in comfort.

Lounge Features

  • Complimentary snacks and beverages

  • Flight updates and concierge services

  • Television, newspapers, and reading materials

  • Some lounges accept pay-per-use access or certain credit cards

Airlines Flying Out of Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ)

Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) is served by more than 20 airlines, connecting Abidjan to over 30 destinations across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

Domestic & Regional African Carriers

  • Air Côte d’Ivoire – Flag carrier and hub airline for Côte d’Ivoire, serving domestic destinations like Bouaké, Korhogo, Man, Odienné, San-Pédro, and regional capitals including Accra, Conakry, Bamako, Dakar, Casablanca, Niamey, Abuja, Lagos, Pointe-Noire, and more.

  • Air Peace – Connects Abidjan to West African cities such as Accra, Dakar, Monrovia, and also operates flights to international hubs including Jeddah, Istanbul, and London Gatwick.

  • Air Senegal – Offers regional flights to destinations like Conakry and Dakar.

  • Asky Airlines – Links Abidjan to multiple cities across West and Central Africa, including Abuja, Accra, Bamako, Dakar, Kinshasa, Lagos, Nairobi, Libreville, and Monrovia.

  • Air Burkina – Provides services to Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso, Accra, Cotonou, Dakar, Lomé, and Niamey.

Continental African and Middle Eastern Carriers

  • Kenya Airways – Connects ABJ to Nairobi and onward destinations across Africa, Europe, and Asia.

  • EgyptAir – Offers connections between Abidjan and Cairo, linking to the Middle East and Asia.

  • Ethiopian Airlines – Serves Addis Ababa with connections to East Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

  • Royal Air Maroc – Flies to Casablanca, offering extensive onward connections to Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

  • Tunisair – Connects ABJ to Tunis and the Mediterranean region.

  • Middle East Airlines – Offers flights between Abidjan and Beirut.

  • Mauritania Airlines International – Serves Nouakchott and regional West African destinations.

  • Turkish Airlines – Provides flights to Istanbul with onward global connectivity.

European and International Carriers

  • Air France – Direct flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle, offering global connections.

  • Brussels Airlines – Connects Abidjan to Brussels and beyond.

  • Lufthansa – Seasonal services to Frankfurt.

  • Corsair – Direct flights to Paris Orly.

  • Emirates – Daily service to Dubai with connections worldwide.

  • Qatar Airways – Flights to Doha with onward routes to Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

  • Swiss International Air Lines – Connects ABJ to Zurich.

  • South African Airways – Links Abidjan to Johannesburg and Southern Africa.

Summary of Airlines Serving ABJ

  • Domestic/Regional: Air Côte d’Ivoire, Air Peace, Air Senegal, Asky Airlines, Air Burkina
  • Africa & Middle East: Kenya Airways, EgyptAir, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, Tunisair, Middle East Airlines, Mauritania Airlines International, Turkish Airlines
  • Europe & Beyond: Air France, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa, Corsair, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Swiss International Air Lines, South African Airways

Parking at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport

Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) offers multiple parking solutions designed to meet the needs of short-term visitors, long-term travelers, and VIP passengers. All parking areas are well-lit, monitored by CCTV, and patrolled by airport security for safety.

Types of Parking Facilities at ABJ

1. Short-Term Parking

  • Purpose: Ideal for picking up or dropping off passengers, or parking for a few hours.

  • Location: Directly in front of the terminal for quick access.

  • Rates:

    • 500 CFA (≈ $0.80) per hour for the first 3 hours

    • 1,500 CFA (≈ $2.50) for up to 6 hours

    • 3,000 CFA (≈ $5.00) for 24 hours

  • Tip: Best for stays under 12 hours, as costs can add up for longer periods.

2. Long-Term Parking

  • Purpose: Cost-effective for travelers leaving their car while on multi-day or multi-week trips.

  • Location: Slightly farther from the terminal but accessible via covered pedestrian walkways or free shuttle service.

  • Rates:

    • 5,000 CFA/day (≈ $8.20) for the first 7 days

    • 3,500 CFA/day (≈ $5.70) after the first week

  • Security: Fully fenced with 24/7 patrols.

  • Tip: Book online to guarantee space during peak travel seasons.

3. Premium Parking

  • Purpose: For travelers seeking the closest possible parking with added perks.

  • Location: Adjacent to terminal doors, with covered spaces for weather protection.

  • Rates:

    • 7,000 CFA/day (≈ $11.50)

    • Weekly rate: 45,000 CFA (≈ $74)

  • Features: Wider bays, faster entry/exit, and dedicated security staff.

4. Valet Parking

  • Purpose: Hassle-free parking for business travelers or VIPs.

  • Location: Designated valet drop-off points at both arrivals and departures.

  • Rates:

    • Service fee: 5,000 CFA (≈ $8.20) in addition to daily parking rate.

  • Service: Professional drivers park your car in a secure, reserved section.

5. Disabled Parking

  • Purpose: Reserved spaces for passengers with disabilities.

  • Location: Close to main entrances and elevators.

  • Features: Extra-wide bays, ramps, and assistance upon request.

  • Access: Requires a valid disability permit.

Parking Rates and Payment Options

  • Payment Methods: Cash, credit card, or mobile money at automated pay stations or exit gates.

  • Advance Booking: Available via the airport’s official website or through authorized parking partners.

  • Discounts: Frequent travelers and corporate accounts may qualify for reduced rates.

Alternative Long-Term Parking Near ABJ

If airport parking is full or you’re looking for cheaper rates, several private parking providers operate within 5–10 minutes of the terminal, often with free shuttle transfers:

  1. Park & Fly Abidjan – From 2,500 CFA/day (≈ $4.10), fenced and guarded.

  2. Abidjan Secure Parking3,000 CFA/day (≈ $4.90) with covered bays and 24/7 CCTV.

  3. Airport Hotel Parking Packages – Some nearby hotels offer “Park, Sleep & Fly” deals starting at 15,000 CFA/night (≈ $24.50) including a room and up to 7 days parking.

How Long Can I Leave My Car at Abidjan Airport?

You can leave your car for as long as you need, hourly, daily, weekly, or even monthly, depending on your budget and the parking option you choose. Long-term parking is recommended for trips longer than 48 hours due to cost savings.

Executive Chauffeur Services and Private Jet Charters in ABJ

VIP Chauffeur Service
Private chauffeur services in Africa

If you’re seeking seamless luxury upon arrival or departure, Alpha Corporate Chauffeur Services offers:

Chauffeur Service Abidjan Airport

Choose from a fleet of high-end vehicles:

  • Mercedes S-Class – For executives and VIPs

  • Mercedes V-Class – Group travel in comfort

  • Toyota Land Cruiser V8 – Rugged luxury SUV

  • Toyota Alphard – Ideal for families or delegations

  • Toyota Corolla – Reliable choice for solo or budget travelers

Private Jet Charter Abidjan

For premium travelers, our private jet charter service connects ABJ with:

  • Major African capitals

  • Remote safari lodges

  • Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S.

Whether for business or leisure, Alpha ensures speed, privacy, and exceptional comfort.

Close Protection Services with Chase Cars

Need more security? Alpha offers:

  • Trained close protection personnel

  • Unmarked escort vehicles for discretion

  • Coordination with your travel itinerary

FAQ: Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport [ABJ]

1. Where is Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport located?
The airport is in the Port Bouët district of Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, about 16 km from the city center, making it convenient for both business and leisure travelers.

2. What are the IATA and ICAO codes for Abidjan Airport?
The IATA code is ABJ, and the ICAO code is DIAP.

3. How far is ABJ from Abidjan city center?
It’s a 20–30 minute drive under normal traffic. For comfort and reliability, many travelers use a chauffeur service from Abidjan airport.

4. Does ABJ have separate terminals for domestic and international flights?
No, the airport operates from one main terminal, with dedicated international flight and domestic flight zones.

5. Which terminal handles international flights in Abidjan?
The north side of the terminal handles all international flights from Abidjan, including routes to Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and other African countries.

6. Which terminal is for domestic flights in Abidjan?
The south side of the terminal serves domestic flights within Côte d’Ivoire, as well as some short-haul regional flights.

7. Is there free Wi-Fi at ABJ?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout public areas and in all lounges at ABJ airport.

8. What lounges are available at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport?
ABJ features multiple lounges: Salon VIP Ivoire, Air France Lounge, Air Côte d’Ivoire Business Lounge, and a Presidential VIP Lounge for official delegations.

9. Can economy passengers access airport lounges?
Yes. Passengers flying economy can use pay-per-use lounge access or enter with Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or select premium credit cards.

10. What parking options are available at Abidjan Airport?
Choices include short-term parking, long-term parking, premium covered parking, valet service, and disabled parking with easy terminal access.

11. How much does parking at Abidjan Airport cost?

  • Short-term: from 500 CFA/hour

  • Long-term: from 3,500 CFA/day

  • Premium: 7,000 CFA/day

  • Valet: 5,000 CFA service fee + daily rate

12. Are there alternative long-term parking options near ABJ?
Yes, several secure off-site facilities offer cheaper long-term parking from 2,500 CFA/day, with free shuttles to the terminal.

13. How can I travel between Abidjan Airport and the city?
You can use taxis, hotel shuttles, ride-hailing apps, or pre-booked chauffeur service from Abidjan airport for a safe and comfortable ride.

14. Is there public transportation to ABJ?
Yes, public buses operate from the airport to central Abidjan, but most international travelers prefer taxis or private transfers for convenience.

15. Which airlines operate from Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport?
Major carriers include Air Côte d’Ivoire, Air France, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, and more.

16. Are there currency exchange and banking facilities at ABJ?
Yes, the airport has currency exchange counters, ATMs, and bank branches in both arrivals and departures.

17. Can I rent a car at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport?
Yes. Global brands like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar, as well as local rental companies, operate at the airport.

18. Are there COVID-19 travel requirements at ABJ?
Regulations vary depending on your destination and airline. Check with your carrier and the airport’s official site before traveling.

19. Can I book a private jet from Abidjan Airport?
Yes. ABJ offers private jet charter Abidjan services, including on-demand flights to Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

20. Does the airport offer VIP and close protection services?
Yes. Companies like Alpha Corporate Chauffeur Services provide VIP transfers, private jet charters, and close protection services with trained security and chase cars.


✈️ Final Word

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport offers convenience, modern infrastructure, and traveler-friendly services. From lounges and parking at Abidjan airport to VIP transport and private jet charters, ABJ ensures your journey is comfortable and secure.

Need a reliable chauffeur service in Abidjan or want to charter a jet?
👉 Contact Alpha Corporate Chauffeur Services to elevate your airport experience.

Need a Chauffeur in Africa? Request a quote from ALPHA.

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