Oran - Ahmed Ben Bella Airport (ORN)

Oran - Ahmed Ben Bella Airport (ORN) maintains a somewhat restrictive but accommodating smoking policy, primarily allowing smoking in designated outdoor areas. For travelers, understanding these specific locations is key to a smooth journey. Before passing through security, passengers will find that smoking is strictly limited to designated zones located outside the terminal buildings. These areas are typically well-marked and provide the only option for a cigarette before entering the secure areas of the airport. It's important to utilize these spots, as smoking is prohibited once you are inside the main terminal halls prior to security checks. The policy becomes more nuanced after security, particularly with the introduction of the new International Terminal building. According to recent traveler reports from December 2024, the International Terminal now boasts two "nice outdoor 'rooms'" specifically designed for smokers. These are a welcome amenity, offering a comfortable and compliant space for passengers to smoke after completing security procedures. These outdoor rooms are part of the new terminal's facilities, suggesting a modern approach to catering to smokers while maintaining indoor air quality. Travelers departing internationally should look for signage directing them to these dedicated outdoor smoking areas within the secure zone. However, the situation for the Domestic Terminal is less clear. At present, there is no specific information available regarding smoking facilities inside Domestic Departures after security. This means domestic travelers should assume that no indoor smoking options exist post-security and plan accordingly by smoking outside before checking in or passing through security. For passengers with connecting flights, especially those transitioning between domestic and international sectors or arriving from outside Algeria, a significant warning applies: you may need to exit the terminal entirely, re-enter Algeria, smoke in the designated outdoor areas, and then go through security screening again for your onward flight. This process can be time-consuming and requires careful planning to avoid missing connections. Vaping policies are not explicitly mentioned in the available information, so it is safest to assume that vaping is treated similarly to traditional smoking and is only permitted in the designated outdoor smoking areas. Travelers are always advised to check for the latest updates directly with the airport authorities or on official airport signage upon arrival, as policies can change. Adhering to these rules is crucial to avoid potential fines or other penalties associated with smoking in non-designated areas within the airport premises.