Expansion of Tunis-Carthage Airport
The Tunis-Carthage Airport is set to undergo significant expansion. By 2030, it is expected to accommodate over 18.5 million passengers per year, more than double the current 7.2 million.
Current Traffic and Activity
According to the government presidency, the airport already handles 60% of Tunisia's air traffic and over 75% of the activity of airports managed by the Civil Aviation Office.
The Project
The expansion plan includes:
- A new terminal with a capacity for 11 million travelers
- Renovation of the existing terminal to increase capacity to 7 million passengers
- Reactivation of Terminal 2, which will serve 500,000 passengers
National Plan and Objectives
This project is part of a larger national plan, which prioritizes digital technology. The goal is to establish Tunisia as a regional air hub and boost tourism.
Environmental and Social Concerns
The expansion of Tunis-Carthage Airport also raises concerns among local residents. The increased air traffic may lead to:
- More noise pollution
- Increased pressure on traffic
- Potential degradation of air quality in nearby neighborhoods
To mitigate these impacts, the project must be accompanied by:
- A transparent environmental impact study
- Concrete measures for soundproofing homes
- Restrictions on nighttime flights
- A clear mechanism for compensating or consulting with affected residents
Success and Quality of Life
The success of the project will depend on the authorities' ability to protect the quality of life for citizens living near the airport.
