India, a vast and diverse country, boasts an extensive network of airports that serve as crucial gateways for domestic and international connectivity. Managed primarily by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the aviation infrastructure is pivotal to the nation’s economic growth and global connectivity. This article delves into the details of international and domestic airports in India, highlighting their significance, features, and latest developments.
International Airports in India
India currently has 34 operational international airports, catering to a mix of passenger, cargo, and specialized aviation services. These airports not only support international travel but also serve as hubs for tourism, trade, and economic activities.
Notable Features of International Airports
- Largest International Airport:
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, sprawling over 5,495 acres, is the largest in India. It also handles the highest passenger traffic. - Historical Milestones:
- Juhu Aerodrome (Mumbai): Established in 1928, it is the oldest airport in India.
- Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh, Ladakh): Situated at 3,256 meters above sea level, it ranks as the 23rd highest commercial airport globally.
- Innovative Infrastructure:
Cochin International Airport (COK), Kerala, is the world’s first fully solar-powered airport.
List of Key International Airports in India
| Airport Name | IATA Code | Location | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indira Gandhi International Airport | DEL | Delhi | Commercial |
| Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport | BOM | Mumbai, Maharashtra | Commercial |
| Kempegowda International Airport | BLR | Bangalore, Karnataka | Commercial |
| Chennai International Airport | MAA | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Commercial |
| Cochin International Airport | COK | Kochi, Kerala | Commercial |
| Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport | CCU | Kolkata, West Bengal | Commercial |
| Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport | AMD | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | Commercial |
| Dabolim Airport | GOI | Goa | Civil Enclave |
| Rajiv Gandhi International Airport | HYD | Hyderabad, Telangana | Commercial |
For a comprehensive list, download our detailed PDF guide.
Important Facts About International Airports
- Calicut International Airport in Kerala is a recent addition to the international airport network.
- Trichy Airport is India’s smallest in terms of area, while Madurai Airport is celebrated for being the cleanest.
Domestic Airports in India
With 103 domestic airports, India’s aviation network connects even the remotest regions to urban hubs. These airports serve as vital infrastructure for regional connectivity and economic integration.
Highlights of Domestic Airports
- Strategic Importance:
Airports such as Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) and Pantnagar Airport (Uttarakhand) connect strategic and remote areas to larger cities. - Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN):
Initiatives under the UDAN scheme aim to enhance accessibility to underserved regions, promoting balanced economic development.
State-wise List of Prominent Domestic Airports
| Airport Name | IATA Code | State/UT | City | Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veer Savarkar International Airport | IXZ | Andaman & Nicobar | Port Blair | Civil Enclave |
| Swami Vivekananda Airport | RPR | Chhattisgarh | Raipur | Commercial |
| Raja Bhoj Airport | BHO | Madhya Pradesh | Bhopal | Commercial |
| Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport | IDR | Madhya Pradesh | Indore | Commercial |
| Lengpui Airport | AJL | Mizoram | Aizawl | Commercial |
| Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport | IXA | Tripura | Agartala | Commercial |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the busiest airport in India?
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) handles the highest passenger and cargo traffic.
2. Which airport has the shortest runway?
Trichy Airport (Tamil Nadu) has the shortest runway among operational airports.
3. How many international airports are there in India?
India has 34 operational international airports.
Recommended Diagram: Airport Management Structure
mermaidCopy codeflowchart TD
A[Airports Authority of India] --> B[International Airports]
A --> C[Domestic Airports]
B --> D[Major Hubs: DEL, BOM, BLR]
C --> E[Regional Connectivity: UDAN Scheme]
Conclusion
India’s airports, spanning vast metropolitan hubs and remote regions, form the backbone of the nation’s civil aviation infrastructure. With ongoing developments under schemes like UDAN, the future of Indian aviation promises enhanced connectivity, increased capacity, and sustainable practices. For competitive exam aspirants, staying informed about this topic is crucial, given its frequent appearance in general awareness sections.
For a deeper dive, download the complete list of Indian airports and leverage this knowledge for academic and professional success.