Welcome to the bustling hub of airports in West Bengal! In the age of swift travel, airways have become the lifelines connecting distant lands.
West Bengal stands tall in facilitating seamless journeys of all airports in West Bengal.
And, with a burgeoning tourist influx, well-equipped airports have become paramount and have the list of airports in West Bengal.
This eastern Indian state boasts a comprehensive network of domestic and international airports catering to leisure and business travelers.
Furthermore, Air Force stations are nestled amidst its verdant landscape, adding another dimension to its aviation infrastructure.
Whether you’re jetting off for a business venture or embarking on a leisurely escapade, West Bengal’s airports ensure your travels are convenient and memorable.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport
In Kolkata, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport, formerly Dum Dum Airport, epitomizes West Bengal’s aviation prowess. Covering a sprawling 2460 acres, it reigns as Eastern India’s largest airport.
However, operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), it holds a prestigious status as the sole international airports in West Bengal, apart from Bagdogra Airport.
Serving as a hub for major airlines, including IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Jet Airways, it offers connectivity to many destinations spanning Bangladesh, China, Bhutan, Northeast India, and Southeast Asia.
Situated a mere 17 km from Kolkata’s city center, accessibility is a paramount feature.
Travelers can easily access various modes of public transportation from the heart of the top cities in west bengal.
Indeed, Netaji Subhash Chandra Airport is a pivotal gateway to the world for the vibrant state of West Bengal.
Bagdogra Airport (IXB) (International)
Bagdogra Airport (IXB), the international airport of West Bengal, is a crucial gateway to various towns and tourist destinations such as Mirik, Kalimpong, Kurseong, Sikkim, and Darjeeling.
Besides, it provides easy access to neighboring Bhutan. A significant influx of tourists passes through its gates each year, drawn by its convenient connections and strategic location.
However, administered by the Airport Authority of India (AAI), this airport facilitates seamless travel to major cities like Kolkata, New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, and Guwahati, with several airlines operating from its terminals.
Among its seven operational airlines are Air India, GoAir, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara, Jet Airways, and Druk Air, which connects West Bengal not only to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport but also to Paro International Airport in Bhutan.
Situated approximately 16 km west of Siliguri city, Bagdogra Airport boasts excellent accessibility, making it a preferred choice for travelers in the region.
Whether embarking on a domestic journey or venturing internationally, Bagdogra Airport stands ready to facilitate your travel needs.
Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport (RDP) (Private Airstrip)
Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport, situated in Andal, West Bengal, is a pivotal part of the region’s aviation infrastructure. Officially inaugurated on September 19th, 2013.
This private airstrip commenced operations on May 18th, 2015, courtesy of Alliance Air. Spanning an area of 5750 square meters, it accommodates up to 1 million passengers, with plans for expansion to cater to 2.5 million.
Equipped with six checkout counters, two conveyor belts, and a 2800-meter runway, it’s capable of servicing Airbus A320s and Boeing 737s.
Moreover, it boasts four parking lanes, a helipad, and category VI firefighting capabilities for enhanced safety.
Initially connecting Kolkata to Durgapur, plans are underway to introduce flights to Delhi and potentially other cities like Hyderabad and Bangalore.
Accessible from Durgapur and Asansol, the airport serves a vast catchment area encompassing towns like Burdwan, Bishnupur, and Bankura.
Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport is a testament to West Bengal’s burgeoning aviation landscape, fostering connectivity and economic growth in the region.
Balurghat Airport (RGH)
However, the scenic landscape of West Bengal, Balurghat Airport (RGH), stands as a testament to regional connectivity.
Spread across 78 hectares, this airport rests 78 feet above sea level, offering a tranquil setting for air travel. Its paved runway, measuring 3600 feet by 100 feet (1097m x 30m).
Ensures smooth landings and takeoffs. Although currently catering to a modest capacity of 20 passengers for arrivals and departures, expansion plans are underway.
Regulated by the Airport Authority of India, Balurghat Airport awaits prospects of commercial services, promising enhanced accessibility for travelers.
Amidst the verdant expanse of West Bengal, Balurghat Airport emerges as a vital node in the state’s aviation network.
Behala Airport
Behala Airport, also known as BFTI or BFC, serves as a domestic airport and a flying school in Behala. However, managed by the Airport Authority of India, it offers hands-on training for aspiring pilots.
Currently lacking commercial services, the airport’s runway spans 1066 meters with an elevation of 10 meters above sea level.
However, plans are underway to expand the runway to 4,500 feet, aiming to transform it into a fully commercial property.
This development is crucial for alleviating the state’s burden on the renowned Netaji Subash Chandra Airport.
Behala Airport’s expansion holds promise for bolstering the region’s aviation infrastructure and enhancing connectivity and you can explore the West Bengal famous monuments.
Cooch Behar Airport
Cooch Behar Airport, nestled in the heart of West Bengal, stands as a crucial hub linking the region to the broader air network.
Situated in the city of Cooch Behar, this domestic airport primarily serves the Assam-Bengal border area. It is elevated 42 meters above sea level and boasts a single asphalt runway spanning 3500 ft by 100 ft.
Although lacking an instrument landing system, the airport, further managed by the Airport Authority of India (AAI), can handle 50 passengers per arrival and departure.
Currently devoid of regular flight services, it offers chartered flights to Kolkata through Chater Airlines Deccan Aviation.
Positioned just 5 km from the city center, it enjoys seamless accessibility via auto-rickshaws and cabs, ensuring convenient travel for passengers.
Malda Airport
Malda Airport, nestled in the heart of West Bengal, plays a pivotal role in regional air travel. Boasting a modest runway measuring 3600 feet by 100 feet, it primarily caters to small aircraft.
However, operated by the Airports Authority of India, the terminal simultaneously accommodates up to 20 passengers during arrivals and departures.
While it once facilitated weekly flights to Kolkata and Balurghat, services ceased in 1989 due to low demand. Commercial operations are on hold, but the airport remains a vital asset for the region.
Further, conveniently located just 3 km from the city center, its accessibility is unparalleled, covering an expansive area of 140 hectares.
Malda Airport is a crucial node in West Bengal’s network of airports, fostering connectivity and facilitating travel for locals and tourists alike.
Panagarh Airport
Panagarh Airport, situated in West Bengal, plays a pivotal role in bolstering regional air operations. With a single runway boasting an asphalt surface measuring 2743 m by 46 m (8999 feet x 151 feet).
It accommodates various aircraft operations seamlessly. The Panagarh Air Base is undergoing a transformative phase, with plans to implement six tanker aircraft capable of mid-air refueling.
This development is poised to significantly augment the range and capabilities of fighter planes, including Su-30 MKIs stationed in Tezpur and Chhanua.
Moreover, Panagarh Airport’s strategic location positions it as the headquarters for an army mountain corps.
At 73 meters above sea level, this airport serves the state and provides essential services to the Indian Air Force base, further solidifying its importance in the region’s aviation landscape.
Barrackpore Air Force Station
Barrackpore Air Force Station is a pivotal defense air force base in West Bengal, India.
With a rich legacy, it is one of the oldest stations within the Indian Air Force, particularly renowned for its operational transport units.
Among its assets are MI 17 squadrons, which contribute significantly to its operational prowess.
Situated at a modest elevation of 5 meters above sea level, the airbase boasts a single runway featuring an asphalt surface, measuring a commendable 6250 feet or 1893 meters long.
This strategic infrastructure underscores West Bengal’s vital role in India’s air defense apparatus.
Kalaikunda Air Force Station
However, near Kharagpur in the Midnapore district of West Bengal, Kalaikunda Air Force Station holds a distinguished legacy as the former home of the renowned No. 18 Squadron IAF, famously dubbed the “flying bullets.”
Until its decommissioning in April 2016, the squadron operated the Indian-licensed Mikoyan MiG-27ML aircraft, symbolizing the station’s historic significance.
Today, the base proudly houses squadron Su-30 MKIs, underscoring its vital role in national defense.
Additionally, the airfield’s strategic importance extends beyond military operations seamlessly.
Plans include facilitating civil aircraft utilization and establishing a civil terminal poised to serve West Bengal and neighboring Jharkhand and Orissa.
This integration aligns with the broader vision of enhancing regional connectivity and security.
Hasimara Air Force Station
Located at the tri-junction between Sikkim, Bhutan, and Tibet, Hasimara Air Force Station is a vital defense airport of the Indian Air Force in West Bengal.
Established in 1962 after the Sino-Indian war, it celebrated 50 years of operation in April 2013. This strategic air base is situated in the Jalpaiguri district near the Indo-Bhutan border.
Squadron IAF No. 22 and Squadron IAF No. 222 call this station home. At 630m above sea level, it boasts a concrete-surfaced runway measuring 9000 ft by 148 ft.
Equally important, it serves as a critical link in airports in West Bengal, India defense infrastructure, ensuring readiness and vigilance in the region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the diverse array of airports in West Bengal underscores the state’s commitment to bolstering connectivity.
It reflects its strategic importance in domestic and international West Bengal airports.
However, from the bustling Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata to the tranquil settings of Balurghat Airport, each facility serves a unique purpose in catering to the region’s aviation needs.
Moreover, with plans for expansion and development underway at critical airports like Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport and Behala Airport, the future promises greater accessibility and convenience for travelers.
As West Bengal continues to soar towards greater heights in infrastructure development, its airports stand as proud symbols of progress and opportunity, ready to welcome visitors with open arms.
FAQ
Q. Which state is Durgapur airport in?
A. Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport (RDP), Durgapur, nestled in Paschim Bardhaman, is a domestic airports in West Bengal Aerotropolis Projects Limited (BAPL).
Q. Which is the busiest airport in West Bengal?
A. Furthermore, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), serving Kolkata and its vicinity, stands as the primary aviation hub for eastern India.
Q. What is Darjeeling airport called?
A. Darjeeling needs its airport; however, Bagdogra, near Siliguri, serves as the nearest air link.
Q. What are the three airports in West Bengal?
A. West Bengal boasts several aviation gateways, including Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Bagdogra International Airport, and Durgapur Airport, facilitating seamless travel experiences.
