The Murtala Muhammed International Airport is one of the largest and rapidly developing airports in Nigeria and Africa. It provides access to the business-oriented city of Lagos and Nigeria.
The Murtala Muhammed International Airport is divided into two: local terminals and international terminals. Both buildings are about a kilometre away from each other with each one housing two terminals each.
The local section consists of the GAT and MM2 terminals for local flights. The international section consists of the T1 and T2 terminals for international flights.
Knowing which terminal your flight is scheduled for take-off is important as most publication on the web tend to mis-indentify them.
The main aim of this article will be to provide you with all the information you might be interested in when it comes to the Lagos Airport starting with its whereabouts, terminals, airlines, lounges, and hotels.
Where is Lagos Murtala Muhammed Airport situated?
Murtala Muhammed International Airport is situated in Ikeja, a suburb of Lagos, Nigeria. It is located approximately 12 kilometers (7 miles) northwest of Lagos city center, making it the major airport serving the city and the surrounding region.
To find the airport, travelers can use the following directions:
- Driving: From central Lagos, head west on Bailey Street towards the northbound Ikorodu Road (A1), which leads directly to the airport entrance. The drive typically takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Public Transport: While public transport options exist, taxis are generally the most convenient and safest way to get to and from the airport. Licensed yellow taxis are available outside the terminal, and it’s advisable to agree on a fare before starting the journey.
- Coordinates: For those using GPS, the airport’s coordinates are approximately 6° 34′ 22.79″ N latitude and 3° 19′ 9.60″ E longitude.
The airport consists of both international and domestic terminals, with the international terminal being modeled after Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
It is well-connected by major highways, including the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway (A5), Lagos-Ibadan Expressway (E1), and Ikorodu Road (A1).
How many terminals does Lagos Airport have?
Lagos Airport Nigeria has four (4) basic terminals; two for domestic and two for international. One must understand the nature and workings of the local and international terminals since they are approximately one kilometre apart from each other. Let’s break down each terminal:
1. General Aviation Terminal (GAT)/Murtala Muhammed 1 (MMA1)
The MMA1 generally called General Aviation Terminal caters to domestic flights. This terminal is owned and operated by the government. MMA1 used to be the old Ikeja airport before it was renovated and renames GAT.
MMA1 may not be ultra-modern, but this terminal plays a very important role in the Lagos Murtala Mohammed Airport.
2. Murtala Muhammed 2 (Domestic Terminal)
The MMA2 which is the second domestic terminal, is a terminal owned by a private firm by the name Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL). This terminal’s operations involve mainly domestic flights within Nigeria.
MMA 2 was constructed in 2007 and since then it has been acclaimed as Nigeria’s best terminals in terms of access, facilities, and clients’ satisfaction.
Some key features of MMA2 include:
- Capacity to handle four million passengers annually
- Modern technological innovations such as the Common Users Passenger Processing System (CUPPS)
- Self-service check-in kiosks
- Automated Access Gates
- Baggage Reconciliation System (BRS)
The systems at the MMA2 are the first and only in the category of terminals in Nigeria and the West and Central Africa region. It provides service to over 50 flights daily to different parts of Nigeria, and it provides approximately 75 percent of the domestic flights in Lagos.
3. Murtala Muhammed International Terminal 1 (T1 or MMIA1 for International)
The Murtala Muhammed International Airport Terminal 1 or MMIA is the main airport complex and caters to international flights primarily. The building is straight ahead when you drive into the international airport complex and is easily recognized by the control tower by the side. MMIA 1 is situated on 496 acres of land and features two asphalt runways
4. Murtala Muhammed International Terminal 2 (T1 or MMIA 2 for Regional and International)
The latest anchor in Lagos Airport Nigeria, is the MMIA2 Regional/International Terminal. This ultra-modern facility would increase the airport’s ability to handle traffic and accommodate both international and regional flights. It has a large and modern, unusual architecture that makes up for certain drawbacks of the MMA1 terminal.
The terminals are almost one kilometre apart from each other. This distance can be jogged in roughly ten minutes, however, it is important not to be on the wrong side of the terminal in order not to be left behind by fellow passengers or even miss one’s flight.
How many runways does Lagos Airport have?
Lagos Murtala Mohammed Airport features two main runways that are shared by all four terminals:
- Runway 18R/36L: 3,900 meters (12,794 feet) long, asphalt surface – Primarily used for international traffic
- Runway 18L/36R: 2,743 meters (8,999 feet) long, asphalt surface – Mainly used for domestic operations
How many airlines are in Murtala Muhammed International Airport?
Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport is home to more than thirty domestic and international airlines that operate in each section of the airport.
Some of the well-established airlines that operate from Lagos Airport include Air France, British Airways, Delta, Emirates Airways, Lufthansa and most of the domestic African airline companies and international companies such as Kenya Airways and Ethiopia Airways.
In the next sections of this article, we will provide a detailed list of airlines that are based in each terminal.
Which airlines are in MMA1/General Aviation Terminal?
The General Aviation Terminal, also known as MMA 1, is mainly for local flights, including:
| AIRLINE | DESTINATION |
| Arik Air | Abuja, Benin City, Jos, Port Harcourt, Warri |
| Air Peace | Warri, Asaba, Uyo, Kaduna, Akure |
| Overland Airways | Abuja, Akure, Ibadan, Ilorin, Warri |
| Green Africa Airways | Abuja, Benin City, Enugu, Ibadan, Ilorin, Owerri, Port Harcourt, Akure |
Which airlines are in MMA2 (Domestic Terminal)?
MMA2 Domestic Terminal accounts for a whopping 75 percent of all domestic traffic in Lagos. They include many internal flight operators, and the terminal is owned and run by Bi-Courtney Aviation Service Limited-BASL. Here’s a list of airlines operating from the MMA2 Domestic Terminal and their routes:
| AIRLINE | DESTINATION |
| Dana Air | Abuja, Port Harcourt, Owerri |
| Aero Contractors | Calabar, Yola, Benin, Asaba, Kano, Sokoto, Abuja, Port Harcourt |
| Azman Air | Kano, Abuja |
| Max Air | Yola, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Katsina, Kano, Abuja |
| Air Peace | Warri, Asaba, Uyo, Kaduna, Akure |
| United Nigeria Airlines | Benin, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Yenagoa, Anambra, Owerri, Sokoto, Kano, Abuja, Asaba |
| Value Jet | Port Harcourt, Abuja, Jos, Maiduguri, |
| Ibom Air | Port Harcourt, Enugu, Calabar, Uyo |
| Rano Air | Abuja, Kano, Kaduna |
| Arik Air | Abuja, Benin City, Jos, Port Harcourt, Warri |
| Ibom Air | Uyo, Abuja, Calabar, Calabar, Lagos, Port Harcourt |
Which airlines are in MMIA1 (Regional/International Terminal)?
The major international terminal complex houses most of the international destinations, including:
| AIRLINE | DESTINATION |
| Turkish Airlines | TürkiyeIndiaSaudi ArabiaPakistanItaly |
| Royal Air Macroc | U.S.ADubai |
| Air Côte d’Ivoire | U.S.AFrance |
| Uganda Airlines | IndiaU.A.E |
| Kenya Airways | SwitzerlandIndiaChinaUnited Arab EmiratesUnited States of AmericaUnited KingdomKenyaTanzania |
| Air Peace | LondonSaudi ArabiaSouth AfricaIndia |
| United Airlines | U.S.AMexico |
| Lufthansa | United Arab EmiratesSaudi ArabiaCanadaU.S.AGermanyUnited KingdomItalyJapan |
| Delta Airlines | United Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesNetherlandsCanadaFrance |
| British Airways | United States of AmericaUnited KingdomMexicoIrelandCroatiaDubaiSaudi ArabiaSpain |
| Qatar Airways | AustraliaSpainSaudi ArabiaNew ZealandGermanyNetherlandsSwedenGreeceUnited States of AmericaAbu DhabiSerbiaGermanyUnited KingdomThailandAustraliaBelgiumHungaryArgentinaRomaniaBrazilMaldivesItalyDubaiPhilippinesGermanyQatarRussiaCroatiaChinaDenmarkFrance |
| RwandAir | GermanyUnited KingdomUnited States |
| Air France | FranceDominican RepublicMaldivesU.S.ACanadaMexicoUnited KingdomUnited Arab EmiratesGermanyItaly Brazil |
| Delta Airlines | U.S.AUnited KingdomUnited Arab Emiratesfrance PortugalBrazilSouth AfricaAustraliaCanadaArgentina |
| Emirates | EthiopiaAustraliaNew ZealandAlgeriaNetherlandsIndiaSwedenGreeceSpainUnited KingdomThailandItalyAustraliaColombiaU.S.ABelgiumHungaryEgyptChinaFrancePhilippinesNew ZealandSri LankaDenmarkSouth AfricaRussia Saudi ArabiaGermanyUnited Arab EmiratesVietnam |
| KLM | NetherlandsBarbadosEcuadorU.S.AUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomPortugalFranceItalyBrazilGermany |
| Virgin Atlantic | U.S.ACanada |
| Ethiopian Airlines | NorwayDenmarkUnited KingdomSaudi ArabiaCôte d’IvoireUnited Arab EmiratesAustraliaIndiaItaly SpainNetherlandsTurkeyBelgiumJapanBrazilGreeceNew ZealandSwitzerlandSerbiaAustriaGermanyColombia |
| South African Airways | AustraliaBrazilArgentinaGermanyMauritiusBoliviaSwitzerland |
Which airlines are in MMIA2 (Regional/International Terminal)?
The newly built MMA2 Regional/International Terminal serves a mix of international and regional flights. While some international flights still operate from MMIA1, this newer terminal is designed to handle increased international traffic. Airlines operating from this terminal include:
| AIRLINE | DESTINATIONS |
| Qatar Airways | Abuja (Nigeria)Côte d’IvoireGhanaEthiopiaSaudi ArabiaAlgeriaKazakhstanEgyptIndiaAbu DhabiLebanonMaldivesDubaiPhilippinesSouth AfricaQatarMorocco |
| British Airways | South AfricaKenyaMoroccoGhana |
| Delta Airlines | South AfricaCameroonMoroccoMadagascar |
| Lufthansa | South AfricaBotswanaGhanaCameroonKenya |
| Royal Air Macroc | SenegalCape VerdeCôte d’IvoireGambiaBurkina FasoGuineaMaliBeninCameroon |
| Kenya Airways | TanzaniaKenyaSeychellesSouth AfricaEthiopia |
| Ibom Air | Ghana |
| Uganda Airlines | BurundiDR CongoKenyaSomaliaSouth AfricaSudanTanzaniaUgandaZambiaZimbabwe |
| Air Peace | South AfricaCôte d’IvoireGhanaSierra LeonneTogoCameroonSenegalBeninGambia |
| Air Côte d’Ivoire | Côte d’IvoireGhanaSenegalGuineaMaliGuinea-BissauBurkina FasoBeninCameroonGabonTogoSouth AfricaCongoMorocco |
| Africa World Airlines | Ghana |
| RwandAir | RwandaSouth Africa |
| Ethiopian Airlines | South AfricaEthiopiaEgyptCôte d’IvoireEritreaMadagascarMaliMozambiqueMalawiSomaliaDR. CongoZimbabweBurundiTanzaniaMorocco |
| South African Airways | GhanaEthiopiaSouth AfricaEgyptTanzaniaUgandaZimbabweDR. CongoKenyaAngolaZambiaEgyptNamibia |
Are there lounges at Lagos International Airport?
Yes, travellers can find a number of lounges in Lagos Murtala Mohammed Airport depending on the terminal they are passing through for their journey. Depending on the fare, these lounges provide services like meals and drinks, internet connection and occasionally exclusive basic facilities like showers. Let’s take a look at the available lounges at each terminal:
Which lounges are in GAT/MMA1?
There are currently no lounges in the GAT/MMA1 terminal as the building is too small to accommodate any at the moment. However, renovations are on the way and they may just create enough space to house a couple of lounges in the future.
Which lounges are in MMA2 (Domestic Terminal)?
MMA2 Domestic Terminal offers lounges for passengers on domestic flights:
VIP Lounge
- Location: Airside, 3rd Floor
- Hours: 06:30 until the last flight (approximately 20:45)
- Access: Lounge membership programs, eligible credit cards, or pay-per-use
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, refreshments, and prayer room available.
- Conditions: Complimentary drinks are limited to two per person and subsequent drinks are subject to payment. Children under 2 years are admitted free.
- Membership/Pricing: There are three different membership categories – “Standard” membership is $99 annually and $35 per visit, this package is for occasional travellers. “Standard Plus” membership comes next at $329 annually, it offers 10 free visits to members and then a fee of $35 per visit afterwards. The “Prestige” membership is priced at $469 and members visit for free at all times. It costs guests $35 to visit this lounge.
The Gabfol Lounge (Arik Air Wing)
- Location: Airside, Arik Air Wing
- Hours: 07:00 – 17:00 daily
- Access: Arik Air passengers, lounge membership programs, or pay-per-use
- Amenities: Refreshments, Wi-Fi, shower facilities (for a fee)
- Conditions: This lounge is for domestic flights only, and children under 2 years are admitted free. Alcoholic drinks are only available to passengers 18 years of age or older. Complimentary alcoholic drinks are limited to beer only, all other drinks are subject to payment.
- Membership/Pricing: There are three different membership categories – “Standard” membership is $99 annually and $35 per visit, this package is for occasional travellers. “Standard Plus” membership comes next at $329 annually, it offers 10 free visits to members and then a fee of $35 per visit afterwards. The “Prestige” membership is priced at $469 and members visit for free at all times. It costs guests $35 to visit this lounge.
Which lounges are in MMIA1?
MMAI 1, the primary international terminal, hosts several lounges:
First Lounge
- Location: Landside, Departure Area (between South African Airways and African World Airlines check-in counters)
- Hours: 07:00 – 21:00 daily
- Access: Lounge membership programs, eligible credit cards, or pay-per-use
- Amenities: Complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, tablet use, children’s play area, luggage storage
- Conditions: Maximum 4-hour stay, while Children under 6 years are admitted free. Children’s play area and games room available.
- Membership/Pricing: There are three different membership categories – “Standard” membership is $69 annually and $24 per visit, this package is for occasional travellers. “Standard Plus” membership comes next at $229 annually, it offers 10 free visits to members and then a fee of $24 per visit afterwards. The “Prestige” membership is priced at $419 and members visit for free at all times. It costs guests $24 to visit this lounge.
Premium Lounge
- Location: Airside, E-Wing (Mezzanine Floor)
- Hours: 06:00 – 00:00 daily
- Access: Lounge membership programs, eligible credit cards, or pay-per-use
- Amenities: Refreshments, showers, smoking room
- Conditions: Maximum 4-hour stay. Access may be restricted due to space constraints, and children under 12 years are admitted free.
- Membership/Pricing: There are three different membership categories – “Standard” membership is $69 annually and $24 per visit, this package is for occasional travellers. “Standard Plus” membership comes next at $229 annually, it offers 10 free visits to members and then a fee of $24 per visit afterwards. The “Prestige” membership is priced at $419 and members visit for free at all times. It costs guests $24 to visit this lounge.
SDS Lounge Services
- Location: Airside, E-Wing, Departure Level
- Hours: 24 hours daily
- Access: Lounge membership programs, eligible credit cards, or pay-per-use
- Amenities: Refreshments, Wi-Fi, spa services (for a fee), sleep beds
- Conditions: Free admission for children under 6 years, while spa services are subject to payment. Cardholders and guests are entitled to a 50% discount on Spa services upon presentation of a valid membership card and payments must be made directly to the lounge.
- Membership/Pricing: There are three different membership categories – “Standard” membership is $69 annually and $24 per visit, this package is for occasional travellers. “Standard Plus” membership comes next at $229 annually, it offers 10 free visits to members and then a fee of $24 per visit afterwards. The “Prestige” membership is priced at $419 and members visit for free at all times. It costs guests $24 to visit this lounge.
Which lounges are in MMIA2 (Regional/International Terminal)?
The newer MMIA2 Regional/International Terminal also offers lounge facilities:
The Atelier Lounge
- Location: Airside, 1st Floor
- Hours: 24 hours daily
- Access: Lounge membership programs, eligible credit cards, or pay-per-use
- Amenities: Complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, business centre, luggage storage
- Conditions: Maximum 3-hour stay and children under 12 years are admitted free.
- Membership/Pricing: There are three different membership categories – “Standard” membership is $99 annually and $35 per visit, this package is for occasional travellers. “Standard Plus” membership comes next at $329 annually, it offers 10 free visits to members and then a fee of $35 per visit afterwards. The “Prestige” membership is priced at $469 and members visit for free at all times. It costs guests $35 to visit this lounge.
How to get to Murtala Muhammed International Airport
Getting to Lagos Airport Nigeria can be done through various means, depending on your starting point and preferences. I’ll include an interactive map below, so you can use the map to navigate your way. Here are some options for reaching the different terminals:
Private Car/Public Transportation
If you’re driving or using public transportation then navigate through the following routes.
- From Ikeja: After passing the AP filling station, continue straight at the traffic light by the Skyline Hotel to reach GAT/MMA1. For MMA2/local airport in Ikeja, turn towards the Air Force base after the AP filling station, and you’ll see MMA2 at the next roundabout after Arik headquarters.
- From Oshodi: You can navigate from Oshodi to the Ikeja which leads directly to the airport complex.
- From Berger: Use the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, then connect to Ikeja, and locate the airport road from there.
While less convenient, public buses operate on routes that pass near the Lagos airport. However, you may need to take a short taxi ride from the bus stop to your specific terminal.
By Taxi
- Taxis are readily available throughout Lagos and can hire a taxi from you directly to your desired terminal. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Ride-hailing Apps
- Ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt operate in Lagos and can provide a convenient way to reach the airport.
Remember, Lagos traffic can be unpredictable. Allow plenty of time for your journey to Murtala Muhammed airport address, whether you’re headed to the local airport in Ikeja or the international terminal.
Lagos airport departures: check-in and security
The check-in and security processes at Lagos Airport vary slightly depending on whether you’re flying domestically or internationally. Here’s a general overview:
For Domestic Flights:
- Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
- Proceed to your airline’s check-in counter at MMA2 or GAT (depending on your airline).
- Present your ID and ticket for check-in.
- Proceed through security screening.
- Head to your departure gate.
For International Flights:
- Arrive at the airport at least 3-4 hours before your flight.
- Proceed to your airline’s check-in counter at T1/MMIA1 or T2/MMIA2 Regional/International Terminal.
- Present your passport, visa (if required), and ticket for check-in.
- Go through immigration control.
- Proceed through security screening.
- Head to your departure gate.
For arrivals, the process typically involves:
- Disembarkation from the aircraft.
- Proceed through immigration control (for international arrivals).
- Collect luggage at the baggage claim area.
- Go through customs.
- Exit to the arrival hall.
It’s important to note that processes may change, so always follow the instructions of airport staff and your airline representatives.
What transportation options are available to and from the Lagos airport?
Lagos offers several transportation options for arriving and departing passengers of the Airport:
- Private Cabs: private cabs are available at designated taxi stands outside the terminals. Rates are usually fixed, but it’s best to confirm the fare before starting your journey. You can also hire private rides like Lagos Ride, Shuttle Lane, and many more.
- Airport Taxis: Official airport taxis are available and typically charge flat rates to various destinations in Lagos.
- Ride-hailing Apps: Services like inDrive, Uber and Bolt operate within and outside the airport, providing a convenient option with predetermined fares. Simply download any of their apps and order a ride from any location in Lagos.
- Car Rentals: Companies like Europcar and Hertz have on-site facilities at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves.
- Public Transport: While less convenient, public buses operate on routes that pass near the airport. However, you may need to take short rides from one bus stop to another until you reach your specific destination.
Is there a parking space at Lagos airport?
Yes, Lagos Airport provides parking facilities for passengers and visitors. The Multi-Storey Car Park (MSCP) at MMA2 offers 800 parking spaces across four spacious floors. Here are some key features of the MSCP:
- Automated parking system
- Close proximity to the terminal
- 24-hour CCTV monitoring
- Special parking spaces for physically challenged individuals
- Elevator and connecting bridge from the terminal to the car park
Parking rates vary depending on the duration of stay, with options ranging from hourly rates to overnight parking. The airport also offers corporate and protocol parking plans for frequent travellers or businesses. Below are the price rates for parking:
- 0–60 minutes: N1,000
- Subsequent 30 minutes – 4th hour: N100 each
- 5th hour–24th hour: N500
- Overnight parking: N5,000
- 18-seater buses and above: N5,000
What are the nearest hotels to Murtala Muhammad International Airport?
You can find several hotels near Lagos Airport, catering to different budgets and preferences:
ibis Lagos Airport
- Distance from airport: 5km
- Features: 188 rooms, swimming pool, fitness room, restaurant, and bar
- Price: from ₦ 52,945.35 per night
Legend Hotel Lagos Airport, Curio Collection by Hilton
- Distance from airport: 4km
- Features: Indoor pool, fitness center, steam room, steak restaurant
- Price: from $339 per night
Ikeja Airport View Apartments
- Distance from airport: 1km from local airport, 3km from international airport
- Features: Rooftop bar, various room types available
- Price: from ₦55,000 to ₦75,000 per night depending on room type
Exploring Lagos Beyond the Airport
While Lagos Airport serves as a gateway to Nigeria, the city itself offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore. Lagos, often called the “Centre of Excellence,” is a vibrant metropolis that blends modern urban life with rich cultural heritage.
What are some popular attractions in Lagos?
Here are the most popular places you must see when visiting Lagos.
- Nike Art Gallery: A five-story building showcasing contemporary Nigerian art, offering a colourful and immersive experience for art enthusiasts.
- Freedom Park Lagos: A former colonial prison transformed into a serene park, combining history, art, and nature.
- Terra Kulture: A cultural centre that showcases Nigerian arts, culture, and cuisine, popular among locals and tourists alike.
- Lekki Conservation Centre: The largest green area in Lagos, offering a natural escape from the city’s bustle.
- Tarkwa Bay: An artificial beach accessible only by boat, perfect for swimming, water sports, and sunbathing.
Is Lagos safe for tourists?
While Lagos, like any major city, has its safety concerns, many areas frequented by tourists are generally safe. However, visitors should exercise standard precautions:
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Use reputable transportation services.
- Avoid displaying valuable items openly.
- Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.
- Consult with your hotel or local contacts for up-to-date safety advice.
By taking these precautions and staying informed, most visitors can enjoy a safe and memorable
Conclusion
As Lagos keeps booming every day, the Murtala Muhammed International Airport keeps pace with its three terminals handling everything from local travel to long-haul flights. Sure, it can be tricky to navigate at first, but once you get to know your way around, you’ll always walk through like a pro.
This airport has got you covered from cozy lounges to a smorgasbord of airlines. And as Nigeria steps up its game on the world stage, the airport’s constant upgrades show that the authorities care about smooth travel.
So next time you’re Lagos-bound or travelling through the Lagos Murtala Mohammed Airport, you’ll be ready to tackle this aviation hub head-on.
