Annaba Airport at a glance
Annaba International Airport is about 9 km south of the city, in the municipality of El Bouni: allow 14 km and 15 to 20 minutes by road to Cours de la Révolution. Run by EGSA Constantine, it serves the whole region, from Annaba and El Tarf provinces to Souk Ahras, Guelma and Skikda.
Its codes are AAE (IATA) and DABB (ICAO): use AAE when searching for flights. Locals sometimes still call it "Les Salines", its original name.
From Les Salines to Rabah Bitat: a little history
Opened in 1939, the airport was first called Bône-les-Salines, after the salt lakes around it. During the Second World War it played a strategic role: on 12 November 1942, during Operation Torch, a British parachute battalion made the British Army's first battalion-sized drop here, and Royal Air Force Spitfire squadrons were later based on the airfield.
Today it bears the name of Rabah Bitat (1925–2000), one of the six founders of the National Liberation Front in 1954, a minister several times after independence and acting head of state for 45 days in 1978.
Where can you fly from Annaba Airport?
The airport offers domestic routes, notably to Algiers, and international flights mainly to France. Some routes are seasonal, with peak activity in summer when diaspora families come home for the holidays.
How to get from the airport to Annaba
By taxi
Taxis wait outside the terminal, especially when flights arrive. The ride to the city center takes 15 to 20 minutes. Agree on the fare before getting in, particularly at night.
By rental car
This is the most flexible option to explore the region: the corniche beaches, Seraidi, Chetaibi and El Kala are not linked by convenient transport. Renting a car at Annaba Airport lets you pick up the vehicle on arrival and return it at the same place before your flight home.
With family
Many travelers are met by relatives. Just let them know your actual arrival time, as delays are common in high season.
By public transport
Public transport to the city center exists but is not well suited to travelers with luggage, and its timetable does not follow flight times.
Distances from Annaba Airport
Located south of the city, the airport is a good starting point for the whole region. Here are road distances to the main destinations:
| Destination | Distance | Driving time |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Augustine Basilica and Hippo | 13 km | ≈ 15 min |
| City center and old town | 14 km | ≈ 20 min |
| Cap de Garde and Ain Achir | 24 km | ≈ 25 min |
| Seraidi | 28 km | ≈ 35 min |
| Guelma | 64 km | ≈ 1 h |
| Chetaibi | 70 km | ≈ 1 h 10 |
| El Kala and its national park | 77 km | ≈ 1 h |
| Constantine | ≈ 155 km | ≈ 2 h |
Tips for your arrival
- Documents: keep your passport or ID handy, along with your driving licence if you plan to drive.
- Currency: follow the customs declaration rules in force and carry some cash in dinars, as cards are not accepted everywhere.
- Phone: SIM cards from local operators (Mobilis, Djezzy, Ooredoo) are easy to buy in town with an ID.
- Night arrivals: arrange your transfer in advance, as taxis become scarce after the last flights.
- In summer: expect crowds at passport control and baggage claim.
Tips for your departure
- Arrive at least 2 hours before an international flight and 1.5 hours before a domestic one.
- From central Annaba, allow 20 to 30 minutes by road at rush hour.
- If you are returning a rental car, add time for the return and refuel in advance.
What to do when you arrive in Annaba
The Saint Augustine Basilica and the ruins of Hippo are only 15 minutes away, an ideal first stop. In summer, head for the beaches of Annaba; for cool air, go up to Seraidi. All our ideas are in the complete Annaba guide.
Torn between flying and driving? Compare with our guides Algiers to Annaba by car and Constantine to Annaba by car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Annaba Airport?
Annaba – Rabah Bitat Airport is about 9 km south of the city, in the municipality of El Bouni, 15 to 20 minutes by road from the center.
What is the airport code for Annaba?
Its IATA code is AAE and its ICAO code is DABB. Use AAE to search for flights to Annaba.
How do you get from the airport to central Annaba?
By taxi, rental car or with relatives: the trip takes 15 to 20 minutes. Public transport exists but is impractical with luggage.
Why is the airport named after Rabah Bitat?
It honors Rabah Bitat (1925–2000), one of the six founders of the FLN in 1954, a minister after independence and acting head of state in 1978.
Why is it called Les Salines airport?
When it opened in 1939, the airport was named Bône-les-Salines after the nearby salt lakes. The name "Les Salines" has stayed in local use.
