Tunisia is seeking to expand its main international airport by quadrupling its passenger handling capacity as the northern African country eyes more tourism.

The transport ministry said in a statement Sunday that the project, estimated to cost some $1 billion, is a part of a wider push to modernize air transport infrastructure.

The plans include building a new terminal spanning about 80,000 square metres, which will add more check-in counters and security lanes.

Tunisia's tourism sector has rebounded strongly after being hit by Covid. In 2024 alone, the airport saw about 7.2 million passengers.

Initially, Tunis had considered building a new airport altogether. The transport ministry announcement was quiet on the source of funds for the project.

Tunisia's economy has struggled in recent years, characterized by high debt and inflation.