Welcome to Gujarat, where a network of airports in Gujarat ensures seamless connectivity within and beyond.
Strategically positioned, Gujarat boasts three international airports, nine domestic airports, and two private airports, facilitating smooth travel experiences for both leisure and business purposes.
Additionally, the state houses three military bases and three disused airstrips, showcasing its comprehensive aviation infrastructure to the list of airports in Gujarat.
The Gujarat State Aviation Infrastructure Company Limited (GUJSAIL), established by the government to nurture aviation growth, is spearheading this development.
As Gujarat’s tourism industry flourishes, these airports serve as vital gateways to explore the vibrant regions of Saurashtra, Kutch, and beyond.
Whether you’re embarking on a journey within Gujarat or venturing further afield, our comprehensive guide to airports in Gujarat ensures you’re well-equipped for a seamless travel experience.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
Located just 9 kilometers from Ahmedabad in Hansol, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is a tribute to India’s first deputy prime minister.
This bustling hub comprises three terminals. Terminal 1 caters to domestic airports in Gujarat, while Terminal 2, recognized for its exceptional steel structure, handles international flights.
Notably, it clinched the Best Steel Structure award at the 2009 National Structural Steel Design and Construction Awards. The third terminal is dedicated to cargo operations.
The airport hosts various airlines, including Jet Airways, Indigo, Emirates, SpiceJet, and Air India. Gujarat is connected seamlessly to critical destinations with flights across the globe, from Dubai to London and domestically from Mumbai to Kolkata.
Vadodara Airport
Moving further south, we encounter Vadodara Airport, also known as Civil Aerodrome, Vadodara, nestled in the Harni suburb.
Initially equipped with a single terminal, the airport’s capacity couldn’t meet the burgeoning demands of passengers. To address this, plans for a new terminal were set in motion in 2009.
Completing this ambitious project materialized in 2016, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the modernized terminal.
Despite its current focus on domestic flights to major cities like Delhi, Goa, and Mumbai, Vadodara Airport aspires to embark on operational airports in Gujarat in the foreseeable future.
Surat Airport (STV)
Surat Airport (STV), located just 11 kilometers away from the city, is a pivotal hub for domestic travel in Gujarat.
Boasting a range of amenities, including baggage services, ATMs, and medical facilities, the airport ensures a comfortable journey for its passengers.
With a capacity to handle 240 travelers, it offers flights to major cities like Mumbai and Delhi and various destinations within Gujarat.
Additionally, SpiceJet’s introduction of flights to Hyderabad, Goa, Jaipur, Kolkata, Patna, and Delhi further broadens its connectivity.
For travelers’ convenience, transportation options such as taxis, buses, and auto-rickshaws are readily available at the airport, facilitating seamless onward journeys to the city center and beyond.
Rajkot Airport (RAJ)
In contrast, Rajkot Airport (RAJ) presents a more limited scope, with flights primarily connecting to Mumbai, Delhi, and Surat.
Despite its smaller size and capacity to handle 125 passengers, the airport remains vital for regional connectivity, mainly through carriers like Jet Airways and Air India.
Located just 2.8 kilometers from the Rajkot Junction Railway Station and 2.5 kilometers from the city center, it offers easy accessibility for travelers.
Moreover, nearby attractions like the Watson Museum and Kaba Gandhi No Delo add cultural value to the airport vicinity, enriching the travel experience. Another experience is visiting the monuments of Gujarat.
Jamnagar Airport (JGA)
Jamnagar Airport, also known as the Civil Enclave, Jamnagar, is a vital aviation hub owned by the Indian Air Force.
Situated 8 kilometers from the city’s heart, this airport accommodates commercial airports in Gujarat and private flights. Despite its modest size, it offers essential amenities, including a lounge and cafeteria.
Plans for its expansion were announced in 2012, indicative of its growing significance in the region’s air transportation network.
Access to the city is facilitated by a well-connected four-lane highway, with private taxis and auto-rickshaws readily available for commuting convenience.
For those venturing further, the airport’s proximity to the bus and railway stations, merely 7 kilometers away, provides additional travel options.
Visitors can seamlessly explore Jamnagar’s rich cultural tapestry by taxi, with attractions like the Lakota Museum, Derani Jethani Mahal, and Ramanlal Lake Park within easy reach.
Bhuj Airport (BHJ)
Bhuj Airport stands as another vital gateway in Gujarat’s aviation landscape, boasting a single terminal catering to a range of flights, primarily operated by Jet Airways and Air India, connecting to major cities like Mumbai and Delhi.
Upon arrival, passengers are greeted with various transportation options, including general taxi services and autos, while many hotels extend pick-up services for added convenience.
The airport’s strategic location, merely 5.5 kilometers from the city center, facilitates seamless access to Bhuj’s myriad attractions.
Travelers can explore landmarks such as Prag Mahal, Aina Mahal, Swaminarayan Temple, and the Kutch Museum via taxi or on foot, soaking in the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Despite its modest size, Bhuj Airport ensures a comfortable experience for travelers, offering amenities such as snack bars, baggage facilities, and medical assistance.
Furthermore, its proximity to the bus and railway stations ensures swift connectivity for onward journeys, completing the seamless travel experience.
Porbandar Airport (PBD)
Porbandar Airport (PBD) is a vital gateway to the culturally rich city of Porbandar, conveniently located 5 kilometers away.
The airport’s recent terminal expansion boasts enhanced facilities, catering to a capacity of up to 100 passengers.
As another civil airport in Gujarat, Porbandar Airport facilitates flights to major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Diu, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Delhi, fostering seamless connectivity for travelers.
Moreover, it offers essential passenger amenities, including baggage services, medical assistance, and a back bar. Rickshaws and taxis are readily available outside the airport premises for onward journeys, ensuring convenient transit options.
Travelers exploring Porbandar’s cultural landmarks will find Kirti Mandir, Sudama Mandir, and Bhunanath Mahadev Temple within a 10-kilometer radius, while Shree Hari Mandir lies just 4 kilometers away.
Bhavnagar Airport
On the other hand, Bhavnagar Airport emerges as a smaller yet significant aerial hub, solely offering flights to Mumbai. Despite its modest size, located 5 kilometers from the city center, the airport plays a pivotal role in regional connectivity.
Although Jet Airways ceased operations due to passenger constraints, Air India perseveres as the airport’s sole carrier.
Featuring a single terminal alongside a dedicated cargo terminal, Bhavnagar Airport ensures essential traveler amenities, including baggage services, VIP lounges, and medical assistance.
For ground transportation, taxis and auto rickshaw stands provide options for onward journeys. Moreover, tourists can easily explore nearby attractions such as the Takhteshwar Temple, Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Barton Museum, and Victoria Park Garden, all conveniently reachable by road.
Bhavnagar Terminus, just 6 kilometers away, further enhances the airport’s connectivity, providing seamless access to railway services for travelers.
Kandla Airport (IXY)
Kandla Airport, often called Gandhidham Airport, is a pivotal gateway in the Kutch district, located north of Kandla and Anjar. Established in the late 1950s, the airport commenced its flight operations during the 1960s.
Currently, Ventura AirConnect Airlines operates flights from this airport to critical destinations like Ahmedabad and Surat. It features a single runway and a terminal capable of accommodating up to 100 passengers.
Located approximately 7.6 kilometers from Gandhidham city’s heart, the airport is a convenient access point to several tourist attractions like Gandhi Samadi, Gemini Circus, and Dhara Aquarium.
For those opting for rail or bus travel, the Gandhidham Railway Station and Gandhidham Bus Stop are situated at 9.8 and 9.2 kilometers, respectively, reachable within 20 minutes by road from the airport.
Local transport options, including auto-rickshaws, are readily available for further convenience.
Dholera International Airport
Dholera International Airport, a significant upcoming airports in Gujarat, is currently under construction.
Set to be located in Navagam, within the Dholera Taluka, this airport spans across 1426 hectares of land. The primary objective of this airport is to alleviate air traffic congestion at Ahmedabad Airport.
The proposed site will accommodate two runways, thereby further enhancing its operational capacity and efficiency.
Once completed, international airports in Gujarat will emerge as a crucial aviation hub, significantly contributing to Gujarat’s air transport infrastructure and connectivity.
Keshod Airport (IXK)
Keshod Airport, located in Keshod, Gujarat, serves the cities of Junagadh and Veraval. Initially constructed as a private airfield by the Nawab of Junagadh, Mahabhatkanji, it later transitioned into a public airport in the 1980s.
However, despite initial flight operations, the airport faced a setback in 2000 when Jet Airways, its sole airline operator, ceased its services. Consequently, Keshod Airport presently needs more operational flights.
Amreli AirportÂ
Amreli Airport is a testament to Gujarat’s commitment to enhancing its air connectivity infrastructure. Initially, the airstrip faced limitations hindering flight operations.
However, through diligent efforts, the government of Gujarat repaired the runway, paving the way for flights to commence.
Ventura AirConnect, the sole airline operating from Amreli, initiated flights to Surat in response to the escalating demand from passengers.
Conveniently located just 1.5 kilometers away from Amreli Station, the airport ensures ease of access for travelers. Basic passenger facilities and baggage services are provided, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Moreover, the proximity of the revered Kamnath Mahadev Mandir, merely 5 kilometers from the airport, offers travelers a spiritual respite amidst their travels.
Ankleshwar Airport
Ankleshwar Airport, situated in the village of Mandva in Bharuch district, holds promise for bolstering economic activities in the region.
The Gujarat State Aviation Infrastructure Company Limited earmarked 80 acres of land for its construction to capitalize on the burgeoning petroleum industry in the area.
Despite initial projections for operational readiness by 2013, the airport encountered hurdles in securing environmental clearances due to its proximity to the National Highway (NH8).
The proposed Ankleshwar Airport will catalyze investment and industrial growth, aligning with Gujarat’s vision to become a thriving hub for commerce and trade.
Once operational, experts anticipate that it will facilitate smoother transportation of goods and personnel, thereby advancing the state’s development agenda.
Deesa Airport
Nestled within the princely state of Palanpur, Deesa Airport stands as a testament to Gujarat’s aviation infrastructure.
While it holds historical significance, rumors have swirled around its involvement in illicit activities, notably during the 2G Scam era. Despite these allegations, the airport currently remains devoid of passenger operations.
However, there are plans afoot to repurpose it into a comprehensive airbase for the Indian Air Force, marking a significant shift in its trajectory.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gujarat’s extensive network of airports is a testament to the state’s commitment to fostering seamless connectivity and facilitating smooth travel experiences.
From the bustling Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad to the strategically located Surat Airport, each airport is crucial in enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the state’s growing tourism and business sectors.
Moreover, with upcoming projects like the Dholera International Airport poised to bolster Gujarat’s aviation infrastructure further, the future looks promising for air travel in the state.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring Gujarat’s cultural heritage or a business visitor seeking efficient transportation options, the diverse array of airports in Gujarat ensures that your journey is convenient and comfortable.
FAQ
Q: Which airport is near Dwarka in Gujarat?
A: There are no regular flights to Dwarka. The nearest airports include Jamnagar Airport and Porbandar Airport. Airports in Gujarat near Dwarka are approximately 95 km from Porbandar Airport (PBD) and 110 km from Govardhanpur Airport (JGA) in Jamnagar.
Q: What is the largest airport in Gujarat?
A: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is the largest airport in Gujarat, serving Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.
Q: Does Ahmedabad have two airports?
A: Ahmedabad boasts three international airports: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD), Surat Airport (STV), and Vadodara Airport (BDQ).
Q: Which are the four international airports in Gujarat?
A: Gujarat hosts several major airports, including Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, Vadodara International Airport, Surat International Airport, and Rajkot International Airport.
