It is located 3.6 nautical miles (4.1 mi; 6.7 km) northwest of the city.

[3] The Algerian Air Force is the primary military user of the airport with several units maintaining a presence at the field.

In the mid-2000s, it was extensively upgraded to serve additionally as a military base, with 10 hardened aircraft shelters, aprons, personnel accommodation and other facilities.

[8] The most potent military aircraft based at Tamanrasset are the Sukhoi Su-30MK multi-role fighter aircraft operated by the 123rd Air Defense Squadron which provide fighter coverage for much of southern Algeria.

[9] The airport was an alternative landing site for NASA's Space Shuttle,[citation needed] and has been used for American military operations.