Aba Tenna D Yilma Airport

Overview

Aba Tenna Dejazmach Yilma International Airport is the main air gateway for Dire Dawa in eastern Ethiopia. Identified by IATA code DIR and ICAO code HADR, it is classified as a large airport and serves both local residents and visitors heading to one of the country’s most important commercial and cultural cities. For travellers, it is the practical starting point for reaching Dire Dawa quickly, whether arriving for business, family visits, or to explore the city’s mix of rail history, markets, and distinct urban character.

Airfield Details

The airport sits at an elevation of 3,827 feet (1,166 metres) above sea level, a detail that can matter for flight operations and weather conditions. It has a single runway, 15/33, measuring 8,791 feet, with an asphalt surface and lighting for operations in lower-light conditions. For passengers, that generally points to an airport built to handle regular scheduled traffic with standard facilities, while remaining straightforward to navigate compared with much larger international hubs.

What Travellers Should Know

• The airport uses the Africa/Addis_Ababa time zone, so set your watch to local Ethiopian time when planning arrivals and transfers.
• DIR is the airport code most commonly used on tickets, booking sites, and baggage tags.
• Because it serves Dire Dawa directly, the airport is a convenient entry point for reaching the city without a long overland connection.
• A lighted runway can support arrivals and departures outside daylight hours, which is useful if your schedule changes.
• As with many regional gateways, it is wise to confirm transport from the airport into the city before landing, especially for late arrivals.