Benin City Airport serves as Nigeria’s primary gateway to the historic capital of Edo State, connecting travelers to one of West Africa’s most culturally significant destinations. This domestic airport operates from a single modern terminal and handles approximately 223 flights monthly, making it an essential hub for exploring the ancient Kingdom of Benin’s rich heritage.
This comprehensive guide provides essential information for travelers navigating Benin City Airport (BNI), offering insights into its facilities, services, and connections to the vibrant city of Benin.
Designed for both first-time visitors and frequent flyers, this is a definitive resource for planning journeys to and from this significant Nigerian domestic hub.
What is the official name of Benin City Airport?
The airport serving Benin City is officially called Benin City Airport, often shortened to Benin Airport. It is named after the city of Benin City, which is the capital of Edo State in southern Nigeria. The airport is managed by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
FAAN lists the full name as Benin City Airport while most travelers simply refer to it as âBenin Airport,â but itâs the same facility.
The Benin City airport operates under the IATA code BNI and ICAO code DNBE. The IATA airport code BNI is derived from the cityâs name (Benin), which is why the airport is commonly identified by this code on tickets and flight schedules.
Is Benin City airport an international airport or a local airport?
Benin City Airport is a domestic airport, not a full-fledged international hub. In fact, only domestic flights are available at BNI, primarily to Lagos and Abuja.
There are no international passenger flights operating from Benin Airport as of now. This means all flights in and out of BNI are internal Nigerian routes, and the airport does not have customs/immigration facilities for scheduled international travel.
The upside of this is that the airport is relatively small and less busy than major international airports, making it simple to navigate.
(Do note that in 2018 the government approved plans to upgrade Benin Airport to international standards with a cargo terminal, but as of 2025 those upgrades are focused on cargo and night operations rather than scheduled international passenger flights
Where is Benin City Airport located?
Benin Airport is located within Benin City itself, in the OgbaâOko community about 2 kilometers southwest of the historic city center. The airport lies along Airport Road (a major avenue) in the western part of town.
In practical terms, itâs extremely close to downtown: only about 3.5â4 km from Kings Square (Ring Road), which is the heart of Benin City. This convenient location means the airport is essentially in the cityâthe runway is famously âin the middle of the city.â
You can get from the airport to central districts like the Oba Market or Government Reserved Area (GRA) in just 5 to 15 minutes by car under normal traffic.
The short distance and easy road access (via Airport Road) make it simple to reach your hotel or destination in town after landing. Parking facilities are available on-site for those arriving by private car.
How many terminals does Benin City Airport have?
Benin City Airport operates with a single terminal building known and the Main Terminal that was constructed during the 2007 renovation. This modern terminal is equipped to serve about 500 passengers per hour at peak capacity.
The terminal features essential facilities like check-in counters, security screening, a departure lounge, and baggage claim. Both departing and arriving passengers go through different sections of the same building.
The departures hall includes airline check-in desks (for carriers like Air Peace, Arik Air, etc.) and a security checkpoint leading to the boarding gates, while the arrivals area has a small baggage claim carousel and an exit for passengers to meet ground transportation.
Because the airport is not large, navigation is straightforwardâitâs hard to get lost in a single-terminal layout, and walking from one end of the terminal to the other takes only a few minutes.
How many runways does Benin City Airport have?
Benin City Airport has one runway. The runway is designated 05/23 and is approximately 2,400 meters (7,874 ft) long with an asphalt surface. This single runway handles all takeoffs and landings at the airport.
The runwayâs length of about 2.4 km is sufficient for the mid-sized aircraft that typically serve Benin (such as Boeing 737s, Embraer regional jets, and turboprops). There is also a parallel taxiway and apron where planes park at the terminal.
For context, having a single runway is common for a city of this size. Air traffic at BNI is not heavy, so one runway can easily handle the few flights per day.
One nice fact about the runway is that it is surrounded by urban areas, so always be prepared for the unique sight of taking off and landing with city neighborhoods in view very close by.
How many airlines operate at Benin City Airport?
As of 2025 Flightpadi data, 5 airlines are currently serving BNI with domestic connections primarily to Lagos and Abuja. These carriers include some of Nigeriaâs main domestic airlines:
- Air Peace â Offers multiple daily flights to Lagos and Abuja (Air Peace is one of the most popular airlines here).
- Arik Air â Operates flights to Lagos and Abuja as well.
- Aero Contractors â Provides service on key routes like Lagos and Abuja.
- United Nigeria Airlines â A newer carrier flying to Lagos and Abuja from Benin City.
- Green Africa â Green Africa also service Lagos and Abuja from Benin City
All these airlines use the single terminal at Benin Airport for their operations. There are no separate terminals or concourses for different carriers.
The airportâs flight schedule is dominated by the LagosâBenin and AbujaâBenin routes, with multiple daily flights on those city pairs. In total, there are usually a few flights per day from BNI, so the number of airlines is limited and each typically has one or two flights daily.
You can compare prices and book tickets with any of these airlines to and from Benin City directly using Flightpadi.
Navigating Inside Benin City Airport
Because of its size, Benin Airport is very easy to navigate and far less hectic than bigger Nigerian airports. You can walk from check-in to your boarding gate in just a couple of minutes. Airport staff are usually on hand to guide passengers, and there are information desks if needed.
The single-story terminal is divided into two main areas: Departures and Arrivals.
Departure Section at Benin Airport
Upon entering the building, if you turn toward Departures, youâll find airline check-in counters and the security screening area.
After security, there is a modest departure lounge with seating, a cafe/snack bar, and a couple of small shops. Signage is in English and clearly directs passengers to âFlight Departuresâ or âBoarding Gates.â Since there are only a few gates (often buses or walking boarding due to the small apron), itâs easy to go where you need.
Arrival Section at Benin Airport
In the Arrivals section, which is at the other end of the building, incoming passengers come through a short hallway from the aircraft to the baggage claim area. There is a single baggage carousel for all incoming flightsâwith only one flight arriving at a time, congestion is rarely an issue.
After picking up luggage, you exit into a public area where drivers, taxis, and greeters wait outside. The arrivals exit and departures entrance are adjacent, since itâs one compact terminal.
What transportation options are available to and from Benin City Airport?
Multiple transportation options provide convenient access to and from the airport:
Public Transportation
Public bus services connect from Oba Market to Airport Road in the Ogogugbo direction, offering very affordable transportation taking 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Airport Taxi Services
Traditional taxis maintain the standard Nigerian wine/red body with yellow roof official coloring and remain readily available at the terminal for direct fare negotiation.
Ride-hailing Apps
Bolt operates as the primary ride-hailing service at BNI Airport, featuring dedicated pickup locations marked directly in their mobile app and available 24/7 with competitive pricing. Uber launched services at Benin City Airport in 2019, offering UberX, UberXL, and Uber Comfort categories.
Is there parking available at Benin City Airport?
Yes, both short-term and long-term parking facilities feature 24/7 security coverage. The airport provides convenient parking options for passengers and visitors.
What are the nearest hotels to Benin City Airport?
If youâre looking to stay close to the airport for convenience, there are several hotels within a short drive of Benin City Airport. Here are some of the nearest hotels to BNI:
Protea Hotel by Marriott Benin City Select Emotan
Distance from Airport: ~2 km (about 5-10 minutes drive).
This is one of the top-rated international-standard hotels in Benin City, operated by Marriottâs Protea brand. Itâs located in the GRA (Government Reservation Area) not far from Airport Road.
Protea Select Emotan offers modern rooms, a restaurant and bar, swimming pool, fitness center, and reliable services. Guests often praise its cleanliness, security, and comfort â itâs a 3-star upscale hotel by international standards.
Notably, Protea provides airport transportation for guests, so you can arrange a free shuttle pickup, making it extremely convenient for travelers with early or late flights. If you prefer a familiar chain hotel experience, Protea is a great choice near the airport.
Morzi Hotel & Suites
Distance from Airport: ~5 km (10-15 minutes drive).
Morzi Hotel & Suites is a well-regarded local hotel located in the Ugbor/Etete area of GRA. Itâs a boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms and amenities like complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a small pool or lounge. Guest say that itâs clean and the staff are helpful. The hotel is around 5 km from the airport.
Boston Signature Hotel
Distance from Airport: ~5.8 km (approx 15 minutes drive).
Boston Signature is another close hotel, roughly in the direction of the city center from the airport. Trip.com indicates itâs about 5.8 km away, which translates to a quick 15-minute car ride.
Boston Signature is a smaller hotel/guest house that offers free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, and continental breakfast. Itâs known as a budget-friendly option while still being near the airport.
Exploring Benin City Beyond the Airport
If you have time to venture beyond the airport, Benin City is a place rich in history and culture. Hereâs a brief introduction to the city and some highlights to explore:
A Brief History of Benin City
Benin City stands as one of Africa’s most historically significant destinations, serving as capital of the ancient Kingdom of Benin from the 13th to 19th centuries. Founded by the Edo people around 1180 AD, the original Oba dynasty began with Prince Oranmiyan of Ife in the 13th century.
The kingdom reached its golden age under Oba Ewuare the Great (c. 1440-1480), who constructed the famous city walls and expanded territorial control from the Niger River to present-day Ghana.
What are some popular attractions in Benin City?
Benin City offers several points of interest for tourists, especially those keen on history and culture. Here are some popular attractions to consider:
Popular tourist attractions near Benin City Airport
The Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin (5km from airport, 15-20 minutes by car) continues as one of Africa’s most famous royal houses, originally built by Oba Ewedo between 1255-1280 AD.
Benin National Museum (7km from airport, 20-25 minutes) houses Nigeria’s largest collection of indigenous artifacts across three floors, featuring Benin Bronzes, terracotta works, and ivory carvings.
Things to do in Benin City
Igun Street Bronze Casters (6km from airport) represents a living UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site where traditional brass and bronze casting guild members continue ancient court artisan traditions.
The Great Benin Moat (Iya) represents the world’s largest man-made earthworks, built between 800-1460 AD as a defensive barrier with a circumference of 6,500 square kilometers.
Is Benin City safe for tourists?
Current travel advisories indicate Level 3 – Reconsider Travel status from major governments due to security concerns including armed robbery, kidnapping, carjacking, and potential terrorist activities. Essential safety precautions include traveling in groups with local guides, avoiding nighttime travel, and using hotel transfers rather than public transport.
More About Benin City Airport
Is Benin City Airport open 24/7?
Benin City Airport operates daily from 07:30 to 18:00, with flight schedules determining specific operational hours rather than 24/7 availability.
Why is Benin City Airport called BNI?
The BNI airport code derives from the historic Kingdom of Benin, reflecting the city’s cultural significance rather than the modern nation of Benin located to the west.
When was Benin City Airport built?
Construction began in the 1970s as a small airfield, with major upgrades occurring between 1975-1978 before the comprehensive 2007 renovation that enabled larger aircraft operations.
How many airports are there in Benin City/Edo State?
Benin City Airport serves as the sole commercial airport for Edo State and the greater Benin City metropolitan area.
Which terminal is Air Peace in at Benin City Airport?
Air Peace, serving as Nigeria’s largest carrier operating from the airport, uses the main terminal building along with all other airlines.
Distance from Benin City Airport to major city districts
How far is Government Reserved Area (GRA) from Benin City Airport?
The Government Reserved Area (GRA) is located 5-8km from the airport, containing upscale residential and business areas.
How far is Oredo Local Government Area from Benin City Airport?
Oredo Local Government Area is situated 3-10km from the airport, housing the city center with Oba Palace and National Museum.
How far is Egor Local Government Area from Benin City Airport?
Egor Local Government Area is located 8-15km from the airport, including University of Benin campus.
Conclusion
Benin City Airport (BNI) may be a small domestic airport, but it serves as a crucial gateway to one of Nigeriaâs most historically significant cities. The airportâs official name is Benin City Airport, and while it currently handles only domestic flights, it has steadily modernizedâfrom its 1950s origins to recent upgrades enabling night operations.
Travelers passing through BNI enjoy a streamlined, easy experience: one compact terminal, short wait times, and quick access to the city (just a few kilometers away).
Inside the airport, youâll find essential amenities and outside, ground transportation is hassle-free. Parking and car rentals are available for those who need them.
Beyond the airport, Benin City beckons with its rich cultural heritage. From the palace and museum that display the legacy of the Benin Kingdom to the lively bronze-castersâ workshops on Igun Street, there is much to explore.
Beninâs relatively serene atmosphere and proud residents make it a rewarding destination for those interested in Nigeriaâs history and arts.
In summary, Benin Airport is a traveler-friendly portal to an unforgettable city. Whether youâre visiting for business, academics (UNIBEN), or tourism, the airportâs convenience will set a positive tone for your trip. Edo Stateâs slogan is âThe Heartbeat of the Nation,â and indeed, from the warm welcome at its airport to the vibrant city life beyond, Benin City can leave a lasting beat in your travel memories. Safe travels or, as locals say in Edo language, “Idá»ÌŁbá»ÌŁ” (welcome) to Benin City!
