Tunisia is preparing a major transformation of its aviation infrastructure. The government has confirmed a USD 1 billion investment to expand the capacity of Tunis-Carthage International Airport, a strategic project designed to support the country’s next phase of tourism growth and international connectivity.
According to Tunisia’s Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, preparations are underway to extend and modernise the airport, increasing its annual capacity from approximately 5 million passengers today to more than 18.5 million by 2031.
This ambitious expansion reflects a broader national vision: positioning Tunisia as a competitive Mediterranean destination capable of welcoming a new generation of international travellers.
Rather than building an entirely new airport, authorities have chosen to optimise and transform the country’s main gateway. The strategy focuses on strengthening Tunis-Carthage as a modern aviation hub while upgrading infrastructure to meet rising passenger demand over the coming decades.
Officials note that the airport’s capacity could continue to grow depending on traffic evolution, ensuring operations well beyond 2050.
A strategic infrastructure for tourism development
For Tunisia’s tourism sector, the expansion represents more than an infrastructure upgrade. It signals a commitment to improving accessibility, strengthening air connectivity and supporting the long-term growth of the destination.
The investment arrives at a moment when Tunisia is working to reposition its tourism model combining traditional seaside tourism with cultural experiences, desert adventures, gastronomy and sustainable travel initiatives.
Improved air capacity is expected to facilitate new international routes, increase airline competition and enable Tunisia to attract higher-value tourism markets across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
A connected airport system for the future
The government is also looking ahead to the end of the Enfidha-Hammamet Airport concession in 2047, exploring the possibility of reintegrating the airport into the national system and connecting it to Tunis-Carthage through high-speed rail.
Such an integrated aviation and rail network could significantly enhance passenger mobility and reinforce Tunisia’s positioning as a regional travel hub.
Tourismag Insight
For destinations competing in the global tourism economy, air connectivity is often the first gateway to growth. By investing in modern airport infrastructure, Tunisia is not only expanding capacity, it is strengthening its ability to attract international visitors, support tourism investment and prepare for a more sustainable and diversified tourism future.
