Butare Airport (IATA: BTQ, ICAO: HRYB) is an airport located in Butare, Rwanda. It is the second largest airport in the country after Kigali International Airport. The airport is owned and operated by the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority.
The airport was built in the 1950s and was initially used as a military airbase. In the 1970s, the airport was upgraded to a civilian airport and began to serve domestic flights. In the 1990s, the airport was further upgraded to accommodate international flights.
Butare Airport is an important gateway to the Southern Province of Rwanda. It serves as a hub for domestic flights to the cities of Kigali, Gisenyi, and Gitarama. The airport also serves as a gateway to the nearby Akagera National Park.
The airport has a single runway, which is 2,400 meters long and 45 meters wide. The airport has a single terminal building, which is equipped with basic facilities such as check-in counters, baggage claim, and a restaurant.
Butare Airport is of historical significance as it was the site of the first Rwandan genocide in 1994. During the genocide, thousands of people were killed in the airport and its surrounding areas. The airport was also used as a base for the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) during the genocide.
Butare Airport is located in Butare, Rwanda, and is the second largest airport in the country. It is a regional airport that serves the southern part of the country, including the city of Butare and the surrounding area. The airport was built in the late 1950s and has been in operation since then.
Butare Airport is of great historical significance to Rwanda. It was the site of the first Rwandan air force base, which was established in 1961. The air force base was used to defend the country during the Rwandan Civil War in the 1990s. The airport also served as a base for the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) during the conflict.
Butare Airport is also significant for its role in the Rwandan genocide. In April 1994, the airport was used as a staging ground for the Hutu militia, who were responsible for the genocide. The airport was also used as a base for the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), who were fighting to end the genocide.
Today, Butare Airport is a major hub for air travel in Rwanda. It is used by both domestic and international airlines, and serves as a gateway to the country. The airport is also used for humanitarian and medical flights, as well as for cargo operations.

Facilities, Amenities and Services:

Butare Airport in Butare, Rwanda offers a range of facilities and services to make your travel experience as comfortable and convenient as possible.
The airport has a modern terminal building with a range of amenities, including a café, a restaurant, and a dutyfree shop. There is also a currency exchange service, a car rental desk, and a post office.
The airport offers a range of ground transportation options, including taxis, buses, and rental cars. There is also a shuttle service to the city center.
The airport has a range of security measures in place, including CCTV surveillance and metal detectors.
The airport also offers a range of other services, including a lost and found service, a medical clinic, and a prayer room.
The airport is also home to a number of airlines, including RwandAir, Air France, and KLM.

Things To Do:

Unfortunately, Butare Airport does not offer duty free shopping options. However, there are several duty free shops located in the city of Butare, including Duty Free Rwanda, Duty Free Rwanda Express, and Duty Free Rwanda Supermarket. These shops offer a wide variety of products, including alcohol, tobacco, cosmetics, and electronics.

1. Make sure to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow for check-in and security procedures.
2. Have your passport and other travel documents ready for inspection.
3. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to take off and put on.
4. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your luggage with you at all times.
5. Do not accept packages from strangers.
6. Do not leave your luggage unattended.
7. Be aware of any suspicious activity and report it to the authorities.
8. Follow all instructions given by airport personnel.
9. Do not bring any prohibited items such as weapons, explosives, or illegal drugs.
10. Be aware of any local laws and customs.

The entrance ticket for Butare Airport, Butare, Rwanda is not required. All passengers are allowed to enter the airport without a ticket.

Butare Airport is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Bus: Butare-Kigali Express (2hrs) & Butare-Kigali Shuttle (2.5hrs). Taxi: Butare-Kigali (1.5hrs). Car rental: available. Airport shuttle: available.

Butare Airport, Butare, Rwanda has a variety of restaurants, eateries, and cafes with great customer feedback. From local Rwandan cuisine to international dishes, there's something for everyone. Enjoy a meal with a view of the runway or relax in the lounge with a snack.