Cameroon launches first phase of Douala Airport modernization

Douala International Airport, Cameroon's primary air gateway, has commenced the first phase of its modernization project. The 10.45 billion FCFA (approximately $17.7 million USD) initiative, undertaken by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), began on June 15, 2026, and is expected to last twelve months.

The project addresses the continuous growth in air traffic and the evolving operational demands of airlines. Key objectives include enhancing infrastructure on the tarmac to improve aircraft movement, bolstering ground safety, and optimizing the airport's overall performance. Since its opening in 1977, Douala Airport has handled over 17,500 aircraft movements and served more than 1.1 million passengers, connecting to 112 cities across 21 countries via 18 regular airlines.

Work involves extending circulation areas, developing new aeronautical surfaces, upgrading existing infrastructure to meet technical standards, and installing necessary equipment and lighting. These improvements are designed to increase aircraft capacity, reduce operational constraints, and prepare for future modernization phases. Airlines are expected to benefit from better parking availability and faster aircraft turnaround times, while passengers will indirectly experience reduced congestion and improved service quality.

This modernization is the initial stage of a comprehensive renovation plan for the passenger terminal, spearheaded by Aéroports du Cameroun (ADC) with support from the French Development Agency. The broader project aims to modernize the terminal, expand capacity, streamline passenger flow, and enhance safety and security to meet international standards.