Asmara Flights

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Asmara Intl. Airport (also known as Yohannes IV International Airport) is a small airport. The runway is short, but big enough to handle an Airbus 340/330 operated by Lufthansa. (Lufthansa leaves Asmara with less weight because they refuel the aircraft one hour later when they stop in Jidda, Saudi-Arabia).

Arriving at Asmara airport
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The airport has no gates, so all passengers have to disembark from the staircase and walk 50 meters to the terminal.

The immigration is located just inside the entrance. The control at the immigration is strict, and my passport was checked in two different counters. I didn't see a "visa on arrival" desk.

Some meters behind the immigration, you enter a small hall. First you have to pick a form to declare the money you bring into the country. This form must have stamp from an officer. Remember to keep this form for inspection when you leave the country. Money exchange at banks or official offices must be filled in this form. That is to prevent exchange at the black marked. Useless to say, the official rate is lousy (half of the black marked).

Your baggage will arrive in this small hall. Pick a trolley and go further 10 meters to the customs. The customs officer will look after electronic devices or any other items you may have. In my case they just looked at the baggage-tag (OSL-FRA), and let me go. But expect a strict inspection if you come from Dubai, etc. (DXB).

After the customs you have to walk 30 meters on a pavement towards the taxi area. (Look at the photo to get an idea how it's like).

Departure from Asmara airport
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An officer will check your ticket before you enter the pavement towards the terminal. You will enter the terminal on the right side. (Look at the photo to get an idea how it's like).

The check-in counters is just inside the terminal. After that go to the customs counter on the right side and sign your "money declaration form".

Go further 10 meters inside to get the exit stamp in your passport. Expect some queue here.

The security X-ray is located just after the immigration.
The last customs check was at the the X-ray (!). I had to show the customs officer the "money declaration form" and all the money I had left.

Then go up the stairs to the departure hall and wait for your flight. You can buy some souvenirs, soft drinks and taxfree items here. Make sure to have Nakfa (Eritrean money) if you like to buy soft drinks. It's hard to pay with dollar.