Kabul Airport, officially known as Hamid Karzai International Airport, holds the IATA code KBL and ICAO code OAKB. It serves as the primary international airport in Afghanistan, located in the capital city of Kabul. The airport plays a crucial role in connecting Afghanistan with the rest of the world, facilitating both passenger and cargo transportation.
Kabul International Airport is the main and largest commercial airport in Afghanistan and the hub of Ariana Afghan Airlines .
- Airport Code: Kabul (KBL)
- Time zone: GMT 4.5
- Service telephone: +93 2023 00016
- Address: Kabul International Airport, 1 Great Massoud Avenue, Kabul, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
- Operator: Civil Aviation Authority of Afghanistan
- Parking: Yes, there are short-term and long-term parking spaces
- Nearby cities: Kabul (6 km)
- Transport connections: The airport is located approx. 5 kilometers northeast of the city center.
- Flight distribution by weekday: Monday (17.30%), Tuesday (13.97%), Wednesday (12.45%), Thursday (17.68%), Friday (13.40%), Saturday (11.60%), Sunday (13.59%)
Most popular flight destinations from Kabul (flights per week)
- Dubai International(16, 19.75%)
- Herat(11, 13.58%)
- Islamabad International(10, 12.35%)
- Istanbul Airport(8, 9.88%)
- Jeddah – King Abdulaziz Intl.(8, 9.88%)
- Abu Dhabi(6, 7.41%)
- Mazar-I-Sharif(5, 6.17%)
- Delhi(4, 4.94%)
- Mashhad(4, 4.94%)
- Tehran – Imam Khomeini(2, 2.47%)
- other (8.63%)
Location
Kabul Airport is situated approximately 16 kilometers east of Kabul’s city center. Positioned in the eastern part of the city, the airport serves as a vital transportation hub for Kabul Province and surrounding areas. Its strategic location makes it a key gateway for travelers entering and exiting Afghanistan.
History
Kabul Airport has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Originally established during the reign of King Amanullah Khan in the 1920s, the airport has undergone significant transformations over the decades. It has witnessed periods of expansion, modernization, and renovation to meet the evolving needs of air travel in Afghanistan.
During the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s and the subsequent civil conflicts, Kabul Airport played a critical role in facilitating military operations and humanitarian aid missions. Following the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001, the airport underwent extensive reconstruction efforts funded by international organizations and foreign governments.
Today, Kabul Airport stands as Afghanistan’s largest and busiest airport, serving as a vital lifeline for the country’s economy and international connectivity.
Ground Transport Connections
Ground transport connections from Kabul Airport to the city center and neighboring areas primarily consist of:
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport, providing convenient transportation options for passengers arriving or departing from Kabul Airport. Taxis offer flexibility in reaching specific destinations within Kabul and neighboring provinces.
- Private Cars: Many passengers opt for private car services, allowing for personalized transportation arrangements to various destinations in Kabul and surrounding areas.
- Rental Vehicles: Several rental car agencies operate at Kabul Airport, offering a range of vehicles for hire. Renting a car provides travelers with the freedom to explore Kabul and its surrounding regions at their own pace.
While public transportation options such as buses may be limited, taxis, private cars, and rental vehicles efficiently meet the transportation needs of passengers at Kabul Airport.
Weather by Month
Here’s a table showcasing the average highest and lowest temperatures at Kabul Airport by month:
| Month | Highest Temperature (°C) | Lowest Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 6 | -6 |
| February | 8 | -4 |
| March | 13 | 0 |
| April | 19 | 5 |
| May | 24 | 10 |
| June | 30 | 14 |
| July | 32 | 16 |
| August | 31 | 15 |
| September | 27 | 10 |
| October | 21 | 4 |
| November | 14 | -1 |
| December | 9 | -5 |
The weather at Kabul Airport experiences significant seasonal variations, with temperatures peaking in the summer months and dropping notably in the winter months. Travelers should plan their trips accordingly, considering the weather conditions during their visit.
Nearby Cities
While Kabul International Airport primarily serves Kabul, there are several nearby cities, towns, and villages within Afghanistan that contribute to the region’s socio-economic landscape. Here are ten key cities and towns near Kabul International Airport:
Kabul
Distance from Airport: 0 km
Kabul, the capital and largest city of Afghanistan, is located in the eastern part of the country. As the political, economic, and cultural center of Afghanistan, Kabul is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and diverse population. The city’s economy is diverse, with sectors such as government services, trade, and construction playing significant roles. Kabul is known for its historic landmarks, including the Kabul Museum and the Babur Gardens.
Charikar
Distance from Airport: Approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles)
Charikar is the capital city of Parwan Province, located north of Kabul. Situated in the picturesque Ghorband Valley, Charikar is known for its scenic landscapes, fertile agricultural land, and historical sites. The city’s economy is based on agriculture, with crops such as wheat, barley, and fruits being cultivated in the surrounding countryside. Charikar also serves as a transportation hub for travelers heading north from Kabul.
Paghman
Distance from Airport: Approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles)
Paghman is a town located west of Kabul, nestled in the foothills of the Hindu Kush mountains. Known for its natural beauty and pleasant climate, Paghman has long been a popular retreat for residents of Kabul. The town is famous for its gardens, including the Bagh-e Babur (Babur’s Garden), which dates back to the Mughal era. Paghman’s economy is based on agriculture, with vineyards and orchards producing grapes, apples, and almonds.
Jalalabad
Distance from Airport: Approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles)
Jalalabad is the capital city of Nangarhar Province, located east of Kabul near the border with Pakistan. Situated in the scenic Surkh Rod (Red River) Valley, Jalalabad is known for its fertile agricultural land, historic sites, and vibrant bazaars. The city’s economy is based on agriculture, trade, and manufacturing. Jalalabad serves as a commercial and transportation hub for eastern Afghanistan.
Bagram
Distance from Airport: Approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles)
Bagram is a town located north of Kabul, known for its ancient history and strategic significance. The town is home to Bagram Airfield, a major military base used by the United States and NATO forces during the Afghan conflict. Bagram’s economy is closely tied to the presence of the military base, with services and businesses catering to the needs of military personnel and contractors.
Ghazni
Distance from Airport: Approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles)
Ghazni is the capital city of Ghazni Province, located southwest of Kabul. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Ghazni has been an important center of trade, scholarship, and Islamic civilization for centuries. The city is home to UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, including the Ghazni Minarets and the Mausoleum of Sultan Mahmud Ghaznavi. Ghazni’s economy is based on agriculture, trade, and handicrafts.
Maidan Shar
Distance from Airport: Approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles)
Maidan Shar is the capital city of Wardak Province, located west of Kabul. Situated in the rugged mountains of central Afghanistan, Maidan Shar is known for its scenic landscapes and traditional Pashtun culture. The city’s economy is based on agriculture, with farmers cultivating wheat, barley, and vegetables in the surrounding valleys. Maidan Shar also serves as a commercial center for the province.
Logar
Distance from Airport: Approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles)
Logar is a province located south of Kabul, known for its fertile agricultural land and historical significance. The province is home to the ancient city of Pul-i-Alam, which dates back to the 5th century BC. Logar’s economy is based on agriculture, with farmers producing wheat, maize, and melons. The province also has rich mineral deposits, including coal and copper, which contribute to its economy.
Panjshir
Distance from Airport: Approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles)
Panjshir is a province located northeast of Kabul, known for its rugged mountains and resistance to foreign invaders throughout history. The province is famous for its natural beauty, including the Panjshir Valley, which is surrounded by towering peaks. Panjshir’s economy is based on agriculture and animal husbandry, with farmers cultivating wheat, barley, and fruits in the fertile valley.
Pul-e-Khumri
Distance from Airport: Approximately 190 kilometers (118 miles)
Pul-e-Khumri is the capital city of Baghlan Province, located north of Kabul. Situated along the Kunduz River, Pul-e-Khumri is known for its historic landmarks, including the Pul-e-Khumri Bridge and the Baghlan Museum. The city’s economy is based on agriculture, mining, and trade. Pul-e-Khumri serves as a commercial center for the province, with markets bustling with activity.