Welcome to the dynamic landscape of airports in Andhra Pradesh! This southern state of India boasts a network of airports managed by the Airports Authority of India or the Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation Ltd. (APADCL).
Catering to both domestic and international airports in Andhra Pradesh, these airports play a pivotal role in facilitating seamless travel for tourists and residents alike.
Andhra Pradesh is renowned for its ancient temples, serene beaches, and vibrant urban hubs, making it a captivating destination for travelers to list of airports in Andhra Pradesh.
Among the notable airports are Visakhapatnam International Airport and Vijayawada Airport, which draw attention to their commercial significance. Additionally, Tirupati Airport stands as a vital gateway for pilgrims.
Visakhapatnam Airport, Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam Airport is a crucial civil enclave within the Indian Navy’s airbase, INS Dega. Since its inauguration in 1981, this international airport has facilitated domestic and international flights, connecting the city with various destinations worldwide.
Nestled just 8 km from the heart of Visakhapatnam, it enjoys a strategic location for travelers. Covering an expansive area of approximately 350 acres, Visakhapatnam Airport boasts two runways, measuring 3,050 by 45 meters and 1,829 by 45 meters, respectively.
Recent infrastructure enhancements include the introduction of new airports in Andhra Pradesh and upgrades to terminal facilities, further enhancing operational efficiency and passenger experience. The airport features a one terminal building catering to international and domestic flights.
Inside, passengers can avail themselves of various services and amenities, including immigration and customs counters, check-in facilities, dining options, duty-free shopping, and convenient banking services such as ATMs and currency exchange.
Vijayawada Airport, Vijayawada
Another significant aviation hub in Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada Airport, is located in Gannavaram, Vijayawada, along the National Highway 16 corridor.
However, as an army base during World War II, the airport transitioned into a civilian facility in 2003, serving as a vital link for domestic air travel in the region.
The airport is approximately 18 km from Vijayawada’s city center and offers passengers seamless connectivity and transportation options.
Recent developments have seen terminal infrastructure and runway capacity expansions, ensuring the airport can efficiently accommodate growing passenger traffic.
Vijayawada Airport features a single-passenger terminal building equipped to handle all domestic airports in Andhra Pradesh.
Among its array of services and amenities are ceremonial lounges, meet-and-greet services, aviation lounges, arrival halls, check-in counters, luggage claim areas, mobile charging points, and provisions for medical assistance and disability support.
Tirupati Airport, Tirupati
Tirupati Airport sprawled across 312 acres, has been integral to Andhra Pradesh’s aviation landscape since its commissioning in 1971.
Initially established with basic infrastructure, significant enhancements were made in 1993 by developing a new terminal and runway.
Located just 14 km from the city center, it is a vital hub for visitors visiting the renowned Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.
With its ICAO code VOTP and IATA code TIR, the airport operates as an international airport, boasting a single-passenger terminal capable of accommodating 500-700 passengers.
It efficiently handles both domestic and international flights, providing essential services and amenities such as wheelchairs, disability support, rest zones with shower facilities, check-in counters, luggage claim areas, and various eateries, ensuring a seamless travel experience for passengers.
Furthermore, the government’s recent plans to extend the runway further signify its commitment to enhancing passenger convenience, cementing Tirupati Airport’s status as a crucial regional aviation hub.
Kadapa Airport, Kadapa
SItuated just 10 km from the heart of Kadapa, Kadapa Airport is a testament to the state’s dedication to improving regional air connectivity.
Established around 1953, the airport commenced regular operations in the 1980s and has since been a vital lifeline for the region’s air travel needs.
With its ICAO code VOCP and IATA code CDP, it operates as a domestic airport, offering convenient access to the city and its nearby.
The airport features a one terminal building equipped to handle all flights efficiently, accommodating approximately 100 peak-hour passengers.
Services and amenities include wheelchair provisions, free-of-cost trolleys, mobile charging points, first aid facilities, medical services, and meal options, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers.
Moreover, the state government’s significant investment of over ₹42 Crore underscores its commitment to modernizing and upgrading Kadapa Airport, further enhancing its capabilities and ensuring seamless air travel for residents and visitors alike.
Kurnool Airport, Kurnool
Kurnool Airport, also called the Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy Airport, stands approximately 18 km from Kurnool City Centre along the National Highway 40.
It was ceremoniously inaugurated after overcoming investment hurdles and construction challenges in 2019.
Positioned strategically on National Highway 40, its accessibility by road is commendable. Expansion projects are underway, indicative of the government’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure.
The airport, identified by its ICAO Code: VOKU and IATA Code: KJB, operates as a domestic hub managed by the Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation Ltd (APADCL).
The single terminal building efficiently caters to all flight operations, offering essential services and amenities such as wheelchair assistance for senior citizens, a lost and found center, a taxi booking counter, and medical facilities.
Rajahmundry Airport, Rajahmundry
Located on National Highway 516E, Rajahmundry Airport is a vital domestic air gateway for Andhra Pradesh. Situated approximately 16 km from the city center, its accessibility via National Highway 516E is convenient.
Established during the British colonial period, it commenced operational services in 1995.
Predominantly utilized by helicopters belonging to the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and various governmental agencies for oil exploration, the airport is a crucial node in the region’s transportation network.
Identified by its ICAO Code: VORY and IATA Code: RJA, it operates under the management of the Airports Authority of India.
The airport boasts a single-passenger terminal building featuring three boarding gates and six check-in and security desks.
Its services and amenities include boarding gates, check-in, and security counters, free-of-cost trolleys, lost and found services, wheelchair assistance, first aid, and medical services, as well as snack bars and restaurants.
Sri Sathya Sai Airport, Puttaparthi
Situated in the serene area of Puttaparthi, Sri Sathya Sai Airport serves as a private aviation hub, primarily handling chartered planes and private jets.
Inaugurated in 1990, the airport initially focused on providing emergency air services for the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences.
Today, it is a crucial gateway for private air travel in the region, conveniently located just 4 km from the city center.
While currently equipped with one passenger terminal, plans are underway for expansion to accommodate up to 100 passengers.
The airport’s facilities include baggage claims, lost and found services, a lounge area, medical services, and meal options, ensuring passengers a comfortable and seamless travel experience.
Nagarjuna Sagar Airport, Nagarjuna Sagar
Additionally, in the Guntur district, Nagarjuna Sagar Airport boasts a single paved runway and serves as another essential aviation facility in Andhra Pradesh.
Further, the airport is positioned approximately 11 km from the iconic Nagarjuna Sagar Dam and offers connectivity through well-developed road networks.
Moreover, despite being classified as a private airport, plans are in motion to elevate its status to facilitate scheduled commercial operations.
However, the airport features a one terminal building catering to all major flights, providing check-in desks, security services, lost and found facilities, and medical assistance.
Bhogapuram Airport, Bhogapuram
Bhogapuram Airport, situated in the Vizianagaram district, is a new Greenfield International Airport project currently under planning.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) granted technical approval to this ambitious venture in 2015.
Spanning across 2,703 acres of land, this airport is strategically located approximately 40 km from Visakhapatnam.
Once operational, it is projected to cater to 6.3 million passengers annually, enhancing connectivity and bolstering economic growth in the region.
Nellore Airport
Moving on to Nellore Airport in Dagadarathi, this upcoming aviation hub is poised to serve the Nellore district.
Spanning an area of 1,352 acres and with an estimated investment of ₹ 368 crores, this airport is a testament to the state government’s commitment to regional development.
With a runway extending approximately 1,800 meters, Nellore Airport is part of a larger initiative to establish eight minor airports across Andhra Pradesh.
Construction commenced in August 2022 after receiving clearances from all relevant authorities.
Kuppam Airport
Kuppam Airport, nestled in Kuppam, is currently in the construction phase. Designed as a domestic airport, it aims to bolster the area’s passenger and cargo operations.
The Infrastructure Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Limited spearheads this project, earmarked for development on 1,000 acres of land with an investment of ₹ 100 Crore.
Moreover, once operational, Kuppam Airport will contribute significantly to regional connectivity and economic progress.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the landscape of airports in Andhra Pradesh is poised for remarkable growth and development, promising enhanced connectivity and convenience for travelers.
The strategic locations of these airports, including Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Tirupati, serve as vital gateways to the state’s diverse attractions.
Moreover, upcoming airports in Andhra Pradesh, such as Bhogapuram Airport and Nellore Airport, underscore the government’s commitment to bolstering regional air infrastructure.
With plans for relocation and construction underway, Andhra Pradesh is set to witness a transformation in its aviation sector. Travelers can anticipate seamless journeys facilitated by modern facilities and efficient services.
As the state continues to prioritize aviation development, these airports stand poised to play an increasingly crucial role in fostering economic tourism expansion across the region.
FAQ
Q: What is the upcoming airport in Andhra Pradesh?
A: In September 2022, Indian Navy officials have agreed to relocate the Visakhapatnam Airport to Bhogapuram.
Q: Which is the nearest airport to Andhra Pradesh?
A: The nearest airport to Andhra Pradesh is Vijayawada (VGA) Airport, 93.8 km away.
Q: Which airport serves Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh?
A: Vijayawada (VGA) Airport is the closest airport to Amaravati, just 30 km away. Additionally, Rajahmundry (RJA) Airport is another option, located approximately 153.9 km away.
