Gujarat, a state in western India, is home to some of the country’s most bustling cities and thriving industries. The tourism industry in the state is also flourishing, making the demand for international travel quite high. Whether you are visiting Gujarat to explore its heritage or on business, it is crucial to know about the details of airports that offer international and various other flights.
There are two international airports in Gujarat that act as perfect gateways for travelers worldwide who wish to explore its rich culture, diverse landscape, and booming economy. This blog will take you through them, including their services and terminals.
International Airports in Gujarat
Gujarat currently has two functioning international airports, and a cargo airport, along with the Rajkot Greenfield International Airport and Dholera International Airport under construction. Here are the must-know details about the international airports in Gujarat.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
Named after the First Deputy Prime Minister of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is the largest airport in Gujarat and the 7th busiest airport in India. Also called Ahmedabad airport, it is located 9 kilometers away from the city and serves both Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.
The airport has flights for domestic and international destinations, including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, London, Dubai, and Singapore. Domestic destinations include Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, Goa, and many more.
Facilities
The Ahmedabad airport has four terminals. They are as follows:
- Terminal 1:Terminal 1 is for domestic passengers. It has 32 check-in counters and a Plaza Premium lounge.
- Terminal 2:Terminal 2 handles international flights. The design of this terminal is based on Singapore’s Changi Airport and won the best steel structure award at National Structural Steel Design and Construction Awards. This terminal has 32 check-in counters, four aerobridges, and a Plaza Premium lounge.
- Terminal 3:Terminal 3 is used for secondary traffic and is opened when passengers arrive during the Hajj pilgrimage.
- Terminal 4:Terminal 4 is the cargo terminal and handles cargo from domestic and international sources.
Connectivity to Town
The airport connects the town and parts of India through various road transport. The Ahmedabad railway station is located a few kilometers from the airport and has trains to various major cities.
The Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service also runs a bus service from the airport. You can also easily find taxis and auto rickshaws outside the airport.
Parking
The parking facility is available at the domestic, international, and secondary traffic terminals. The parking capacity is 2,000 vehicles. The parking fares differ as per the type of vehicle and the time you utilize the space.
Facilities
The Ahmedabad airport has all the major facilities; here are some of them:
- Forex and ATMs: ATMs are available in different parts of the airport. The forex exchange facility is available in Terminal 2.
- Lost and Found: A lost and found service is also available. You have to submit your details to avail of the services.
- Baggage Wrapping Service: Baggage wrapping services are also available at the airport at Terminals 1 and 2.
- Medical Facilities: The airport has a tie-up with Apollo Clinic, which provides medical facilities at Terminals 1 and 2.
- Other services: The airport also provides wifi at the lounges, restaurants, cafeterias, business services, duty-free shops, childcare rooms, and spa services.
Surat Airport
Surat International Airport is located in Magdalla and serves the city of Surat. It is the second busiest airport in Gujarat and also has a flying training school. The airport has flights for domestic and international destinations, including Sharjah, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, and Kolkata.
The major airlines operating here include Air India Express, IndiGo, Star Air, and AIX Connect. The airport is currently under expansion to handle more traffic and passengers. The new expansion will include 20 check-in counters, 5 aerobridges, and several immigration counters, among other facilities.
Terminals
The airport currently has an integrated terminal and a cargo terminal.
- Integrated Terminal: The integrated terminal can handle 240 passengers per hour. It has two baggage carousels, air bridges, and a 120-seat lounge.
- Cargo Terminal: The airport also has a cargo terminal (opened in 2020) serving aquaculture farms and the diamond industry. However, the operation will expand gradually.
Connectivity to Town
The airport is well-connected to the city by train and bus. The Surat railway station is only 16 kilometers away from the airport. Bus stands like Paras Police bus stand, Surat Railway bus stand, and BRC bus stand are also located nearby.
Parking
A parking facility is also available at Surat Airport. The facilities can accommodate 150 vehicles. The charges depend on the type of vehicle and time.
Facilities
Many facilities are available at Surat Airport.
- Baggage services: Baggage carousels are available at the airport. The expansion area will also feature modern baggage services.
- Lost and Found: Lost and Found services can be availed from the Terminal Manager Office.
- ATM:ATM is available at the ground level of the airport.
- Medical Facilities: The airport also offers limited medical facilities.
- Other Services: The airport has a variety of other services, including restaurants, duty-free shopping, wifi, and a child care room.
Vadodara Airport
Located in the city of Vadodara, the Vadodara airport is a customs airport. It is the second cleanest airport in India and the third busiest airport in Gujarat. It is also an Indian Air Force base.
Vadodara airport has flights for domestic destinations, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Mumbai. It is also set to begin international flights soon, with the possibility of flights to Dubai and Sharjah beginning shortly.
Terminals
The airport has two terminals.
- Old Domestic Terminal: The old domestic terminal can handle 250 passengers. It is solely for domestic flights and passengers.
- Integrated Terminal: The integrated terminal building can handle 700 passengers. It is India’s second-greenest airport and includes a garden with artworks and sculptures. The terminal has 18 check-in counters and can handle domestic and international fliers.
Connectivity to Town
Vadodara airport is well-connected to Vadodara and the major cities of India. The Vadodara Railway Station is located a mere 5 kilometers away. The Central bus stand is also located 5 kilometers from the airport, making it convenient for passengers.
Parking
Limited parking space is available at the Vadodara airport. The charges begin from Rs. 10 for 30 minutes for a motorcycle. The prices vary as per the type of vehicle and duration of parking.
Facilities
The following facilities are available at the airport:
- Baggage Services: The airport has free of cost baggage services.
- Other Services: Vadodara airport has many different services, including restaurants, a garden, a lounge, a medical facility, ATM, and a child care facility.
Wrapping Up
Gujarat’s international airports offer modern facilities, excellent connectivity, and easy access to major destinations within Gujarat and beyond. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent flier, the international airports in Gujarat are well-equipped to make your travel experience smooth, safe, and comfortable. With their state-of-art terminals, ample parking facilities, and a wide range of amenities, these airports capture Gujarat’s spirit of growth and progress well.
