Baco Airport (BCO)

Baco Airport (BCO) serves the town of Jinka in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region (SNNPR) of Ethiopia. Situated at an elevation of 4,300 feet (approximately 1,310 meters), this regional airport is the primary air gateway to the famous Omo Valley, renowned for its diverse indigenous tribes and unique cultural heritage. The airport operates a single paved runway and a very basic, functional terminal building designed to handle domestic flights, primarily connecting to Addis Ababa via Ethiopian Airlines. Its role is crucial for facilitating tourism, humanitarian efforts, and local travel to this culturally rich, yet remote, part of Ethiopia.

Operational procedures at BCO are straightforward, following Ethiopian aviation standards. Security screening is present, but processing is typically swift due to the airport's smaller size and flight volume. Passengers can expect check-in procedures to be manual. Boarding is conducted by walking directly to the aircraft on the apron, as there are no jet bridges. Flights operate daily, usually connecting to Addis Ababa, but are highly weather-dependent, and travelers should be prepared for potential delays or cancellations due to conditions in the region. It is always advisable to book flights early as capacity can be limited.

Amenities within the terminal are very limited. There is usually a small waiting area with basic seating and restrooms. Travelers will not find extensive dining options, retail shops, or Wi-Fi services. It is essential to bring any necessary provisions, such as water and snacks. For ground transportation, local taxis and pre-arranged lodge transfers are typically available outside the terminal, providing connections to Jinka town center and onward to the Omo Valley. Jinka serves as a base for day trips to various tribal villages, and visitors are advised to arrange ground transport and guides in advance. It is also recommended to carry local currency (Ethiopian Birr) as ATM access is limited.