Tunisia Plans $1 Billion Expansion of Carthage Airport

Tunisia has announced plans to expand its main international airport, Carthage, in a project estimated to cost $1 billion. The expansion aims to quadruple the airport’s passenger handling capacity as the North African country looks to boost tourism and modernize its air transport infrastructure.

According to a statement from the Transport Ministry on Sunday, the project will include the construction of a new terminal covering about 80,000 square metres. The terminal will feature additional check in counters, more security lanes, and modern facilities designed to improve passenger experience.

The ministry explained that the expansion is part of a broader strategy to upgrade Tunisia’s aviation sector and support the country’s economic recovery. Tourism, a key pillar of Tunisia’s economy, has rebounded strongly after being hit hard by the Covid 19 pandemic. In 2024 alone, Carthage Airport handled about 7.2 million passengers, underscoring the need for greater capacity.

Initially, Tunisian authorities had considered building an entirely new airport. However, the government has now opted to expand Carthage instead. The ministry’s statement did not specify how the $1 billion project will be funded, leaving questions about financing at a time when Tunisia’s economy is struggling with high debt and inflation.

Officials say the expansion will help position Tunisia as a more attractive destination for international airlines and tourists. The country has been working to diversify its economy, and tourism remains one of the sectors with the greatest potential for growth. By improving airport facilities, Tunisia hopes to encourage more visitors and strengthen its role as a regional hub.

The Carthage Airport project is expected to create jobs during construction and provide long term benefits for the aviation and tourism industries. Analysts note that modern airports are critical for attracting investment and facilitating trade, making the expansion a strategic move despite Tunisia’s financial challenges.

Tunisia’s government has pledged to continue investing in infrastructure projects that can stimulate growth and improve services for citizens and visitors alike. The Carthage expansion is seen as a flagship initiative in this effort.

While details about the timeline and funding remain unclear, the announcement signals Tunisia’s determination to push ahead with modernization plans. The success of the project will depend on securing financing and ensuring efficient management of the expansion.

For now, the government is presenting the Carthage Airport upgrade as a symbol of Tunisia’s resilience and ambition to strengthen its tourism sector and reconnect with the global economy.