By Burkina Faso is preparing to relaunch the long-delayed Donsin Airport relaunch project, as authorities revive one of West Africa’s most important aviation infrastructure assets. Following a comprehensive technical review in late March 2026, the Société des Aéroports du Faso (SAFA) confirmed plans to resume construction, with a revised focus on stronger governance, improved contract structures, and alignment with international aviation standards.
Donsin Airport Project Set For Restart
The Société des Aéroports du Faso (SAFA) has confirmed plans to resume work on the airport following a comprehensive technical review of the site in late March 2026.
The decision comes after a prolonged suspension triggered by contractual disputes, structural concerns, and the need for a full reassessment of the project’s foundations.
Officials say the restart will be based on revised technical, financial, and governance frameworks designed to prevent previous shortcomings.
Delays
Originally launched more than a decade ago, the Donsin airport project has faced repeated disruptions.
Challenges have included:
- Weak initial project studies and planning
- Contractual imbalances and disputes with partners
- Underperformance by contractors and technical issues
Authorities also terminated a major concession agreement in 2023, citing concerns over its structure and long-term implications for the state.
Existing Progress
Despite the delays, significant portions of the project have already been completed.
Key infrastructure such as:
- The main runway
- Access roads
- Utility systems and administrative facilities
are already in place, providing a technical base for restarting construction.
Strategic Importance – Burkina Faso
The new airport, located around 35 kilometres from Ouagadougou, is intended to replace the country’s existing airport, which is constrained by its urban location.
Once completed, the facility is expected to:
- Handle over 1 million passengers annually
- Accommodate wide-body aircraft
- Strengthen regional and international connectivity
The project is also seen as a catalyst for economic development, logistics growth, and tourism in the surrounding region.
Renewed Approach
Authorities have emphasised that the relaunch will focus on:
- Stronger project governance
- Improved contract structures
- Better alignment with international aviation standards
The goal is to ensure the project is delivered on a more sustainable and reliable footing.
The relaunch of the Donsin Airport marks a critical step in Burkina Faso’s efforts to modernise its aviation infrastructure.
If successfully completed, the project could transform the country’s air transport capacity and reinforce its position within the West African aviation network.
