Algerian Radio
Air Algérie is working toward launching regular flights to five African destinations, as well as to Warsaw (Poland) and Shanghai (China) during 2026, supported by its ongoing fleet renewal program, announced the CEO of Air Algérie, Hamza Benhamouda, on Thursday.
Speaking at a press conference alongside the CEO of the Algiers Airport Services and Infrastructure Management Company (SGSIA), Mr. Mokhtar Saïd Mediouni, and the Director General of Air Algérie Cargo, Mr. Abdelkader Salmi, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a new air cargo center at Algiers Airport, Mr. Benhamouda specified that the Algiers-Libreville (Gabon) route is expected to launch in mid-June.
He further emphasized that the airline will continue to strengthen its presence on the African continent throughout the current year by opening routes to four other cities: Luanda (Angola), Maputo (Mozambique), Accra (Ghana), and Lagos (Nigeria).
The national carrier also plans to boost its flights to China with the opening of a route to Shanghai in the winter of 2026, alongside new European connections such as Warsaw. Mr. Benhamouda noted that the implementation of this program depends on the continued delivery of newly acquired aircraft.
For his part, Mr. Mediouni stated that the "Houari-Boumediene" Airport (SGSIA) is working on an expansion project. The airport recorded over 10 million passengers last year, with projections exceeding 11 million for 2026. He also noted that work is underway to develop Terminal 1, specifically for low-cost flights.
Mr. Mediouni praised the modernization efforts at Algiers International Airport through the integration of advanced digital solutions, such as smart check-in systems and digitized travel procedures, which help reduce wait times and improve service quality. Self-service paths supported by biometric recognition technologies will also be implemented to simplify formalities, with service expected to begin this summer.
This strategic direction also includes sustainable solutions, such as the use of electric buses within the airport and the implementation of a modern bird strike risk management system, enhancing aviation safety while preserving the environment.
Furthermore, work is ongoing to introduce modern infrastructure, including sleep cabins for transit passengers. According to Mr. Mediouni, these initiatives reflect a clear commitment to developing the national air transport sector, enhancing its competitiveness, and consolidating Algiers Airport's position as a major regional hub.
