Margaret Ekpo International Airport is on the Calabar–Ikom Highway in the north of Calabar, about 10–12 km from the city centre (Watt Market). The drive takes 12–20 minutes depending on traffic.

Ride-hailing: Bolt serves the airport for pick-ups and drop-offs, which saves you changing vehicles with your luggage.
Taxi: Taxis wait at the terminal entrance as you leave baggage claim. Agree the fare first.
Public transport: Minibuses, tricycles and bikes run to the airport area. It is cheaper but may mean several stops, so leave extra time.
Parking: FAAN runs the car park, with hourly and daily rates. Contact FAAN if you plan to leave a car for a long time.

Check-in

Check-in at Calabar Airport

Check-in usually opens 24 hours before departure and closes 2 hours before for domestic flights. For international flights it opens 48 hours before and closes 4 hours before. Flights booked on Flightpadi are checked in for you automatically, with reminders and your e-ticket sent to you.

Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight with your ID and booking. Liquids go in a clear bag at security; keep perfumes and creams in checked luggage.

Arriving

Arriving at Calabar Airport

Baggage claim is signposted as you enter arrivals; show your baggage tag to the officer to collect your bag. For lost or damaged bags, go to the baggage complaints office. There are no rest facilities for long delays, so book a nearby hotel if a flight is cancelled late.

Flights to Calabar, things to do and more →

Facilities

Lounges and Facilities at Calabar Airport

Lounges

VIP Lounge (Main terminal): Paid access. Seating, snacks, and meals on request.

Facilities

Check-in counters, security screening, a departure lounge with seating, baggage claim, a few shops for snacks and drinks, restrooms and an ATM. There is no free Wi-Fi.

FAQs

Calabar Airport: FAQs

Is Calabar Airport open?

Yes. Flights from Calabar Airport were found on Flightpadi in the last 7 days, with direct routes to Lagos and Abuja.

How much is a flight from Calabar Airport to Lagos?

One-way fares from Calabar Airport to Lagos start from about ₦203,000. Fares change daily, so search your date for today’s price.

Which airlines fly from Calabar Airport?

2 airlines fly from Margaret Ekpo International Airport non-stop: Ibom Air and ValueJet.

Where can I fly from Calabar Airport?

Direct flights go to Lagos and Abuja. See the routes above for today’s lowest fares.

What is the airport code for Calabar Airport?

Margaret Ekpo International Airport uses the IATA code CBQ.

How early should I get to Calabar Airport?

Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. Flights booked on Flightpadi are checked in for you, with reminders and your e-ticket sent to you.

What is the name of Calabar airport?

Margaret Ekpo International Airport (CBQ), named after the women’s rights activist Margaret Ekpo.

Does Calabar airport have international flights?

Not at the moment. Flights go to Lagos and Abuja, and you can connect from there to other destinations.

How far is Watt Market from Calabar airport?

About 12–20 minutes by car.

More airports

Other Airports in Nigeria

Benin Airport

Lagos Airport

Abuja Airport

Port Harcourt Airport