Rapid Expansion Plans for Tunis-Carthage International Airport
The Minister of Transport, Rachid Amri, announced during a session at the Assembly of People's Representatives that the estimated cost of the expansion project for Tunis-Carthage International Airport is 3 billion dinars. He also mentioned that the option to create a new airport in Bizerte is still being considered.
Key Project Details
- The expansion project includes the creation of a suspended metro line connecting the airport to the capital.
- The airport's capacity is expected to reach 18 million passengers per year after the completion of the expansion works.
- Due to the project's strategic importance on economic and social levels, a file has been prepared for the conclusion of a contract through a pre-selection process, using the "turnkey" formula. The Civil Aviation and Airports Office has conducted a study for this purpose.
Tunisair Performance and Restructuring
- The Minister of Transport revealed that 3,000 complaints have been filed by passengers against Tunisair due to flight delays. However, he noted a significant improvement in the punctuality of departures, which has increased from 42% in the first quarter of 2025 to 62% currently. The minister hopes to see this rate reach 90% by the end of the year.
- Tunisair currently operates 14 aircraft from its fleet, in addition to 3 leased planes, and incurs monthly losses of around 22 million dinars.
- The company has planned to lease-purchase five additional aircraft and repair two planes belonging to Tunisair.
- According to the minister, the company's financial balance could be achieved when it has 21 operational aircraft. Tunisair is finalizing a restructuring plan, which will be presented by the end of the year.
Restructuring Efforts Across Transport Sector
- The minister stated that restructuring programs also concern the Tunisian National Railway Company (SNCFT), the Tunisian Navigation Company (CTN), and the Tunisian Handling and Storage Company (STAM).
