How Many Airports in Karnataka? BLR, IXE and More

Karnataka, a state in southern India, has grown its air travel infrastructure over the years. The region now boasts multiple airports to serve both domestic and international travellers.

Karnataka has two principal international airports: Bengaluru (BLR) and Mangaluru (IXE). Shivamogga (RQY) is a regional airport and should not be counted as an international gateway. Check the airport and airline for current international services before booking.

Beyond these international gateways, Karnataka also has several domestic airports. These smaller facilities connect various parts of the state, making travel within Karnataka more convenient. The mix of international and domestic airports has improved connectivity, boosted tourism, and supported economic growth in the region.

Overview of Karnataka’s Airports

Selecting an airport in Karnataka for a charter or business aviation movement? Compare BLR, IXE and regional options, review India airport guides, or ask ATTS about permits, parking, handling, fuel and crew support.

Karnataka has several airports serving different regions of the state. The main international gateways are in Bangalore and Mangalore, while other cities have domestic airports.

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru

Kempegowda International Airport is Karnataka’s busiest airport. It serves Bangalore, the state capital.

Kempegowda International Airport opened in 2008 and has grown into Karnataka’s busiest passenger airport. For a current annual traffic figure, use the airport operator’s report for the specific financial year.

Kempegowda Airport has two runways and two passenger terminals. Terminal assignments and routes should be checked with the airport and airline before travel.

The airport is north of Bengaluru. Road transport includes buses and taxis; check the airport operator and local transport agency for current rail or feeder connections before planning a transfer.

Mangalore International Airport

Mangalore International Airport is Karnataka’s second international airport. It serves the coastal city of Mangalore.

The airport sits on a hilltop, with a table-top runway. This makes landings more challenging for pilots.

Mangalore Airport handles both domestic and international flights. It mainly connects to cities in India and the Middle East.

Mangaluru is an important gateway for coastal Karnataka. For current passenger traffic and route information, consult the airport operator’s latest reports and airline schedules.

Hubli Airport

Hubli Airport serves the city of Hubli in northern Karnataka. It’s a domestic airport with growing traffic.

The airport offers flights to Bangalore, Mumbai, and other Indian cities. Airlines like IndiGo operate regular services here.

Hubli Airport has a single runway and a small terminal building. It’s been upgraded recently to handle more flights and passengers.

The airport is important for business travellers and tourists visiting north Karnataka.

Bellary and Bidar Airports

Bellary and Bidar are smaller cities in Karnataka with domestic airports.

Bellary Airport mainly serves charter and private flights. It doesn’t have regular scheduled services yet.

Bidar Airport opened for commercial flights in 2020. It offers connections to Bangalore and other nearby cities.

Both airports are part of efforts to improve air connectivity in Karnataka. They help reduce travel time to remote parts of the state.

Domestic and International Operations

Karnataka has two main international airports that handle both domestic and international flights. These airports connect the state to various cities within India and around the world.

Bengaluru is Karnataka’s Main Aviation Hub

Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is Karnataka’s largest and busiest airport. It ranks as the third busiest airport in India for passenger traffic.

The airport has two passenger terminals. Domestic and international terminal assignments can vary by airline and flight; confirm the correct terminal on the ticket and with the operating airline before travel.

Kempegowda International Airport connects Bengaluru to over 80 destinations across India and the world. It serves as a major hub for several Indian airlines.

The airport’s new Terminal 2, opened in 2023, has increased its capacity to handle more passengers and flights. This expansion has further boosted Bengaluru’s air connectivity.

Other Airports’ Domestic and International Routes

Mangalore International Airport is Karnataka’s second international airport. It offers flights to several domestic cities and international destinations, mainly in the Middle East.

Mangalore airport has two runways, including a unique tabletop runway. This allows it to handle various types of aircraft for both domestic and international flights.

Other airports in Karnataka, like Mysore and Kalaburagi, mainly serve domestic routes. These smaller airports connect their cities to major hubs like Bengaluru and Mumbai.

The network of domestic airports in Karnataka helps improve air connectivity within the state and to other parts of India.

Airport Infrastructure and Facilities

Karnataka’s airports boast modern infrastructure and top-notch facilities. These elements make air travel smooth and comfortable for passengers. They also support the growing aviation needs of the state.

Integrated Terminals and Passenger Services

Kempegowda International Airport is Karnataka’s largest airport. Its terminal use and airline allocations can change; check the operator’s current information for the flight.

The airport has:

Check-in counters
Security checkpoints
Lounges
Shops and restaurants
Baggage claim areas

Passengers can find help desks, currency exchange, and car rental services. The airport also provides special assistance for travellers with disabilities.

Support Infrastructure and Access

Karnataka’s airports have robust support systems. These include air traffic control towers, runways, and cargo facilities. Many airports offer parking for both short and long-term stays.

Getting to and from the airports is easy. Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation runs bus services to Kempegowda International Airport. A Shuttle Service connects the airport to key city locations.

For Mysore Airport, the Mysore Ring Road improves access. This road helps travellers reach the airport quickly from different parts of the city.

Airports in Karnataka keep improving their facilities. They aim to meet the growing needs of air travellers and support the state’s development.

Economic and Regional Impact

International airports in Karnataka drive economic growth and improve connections across the state. They bring in tourists, help businesses, and make travel easier for people living in different areas.

Contribution to Tourism and Business

Karnataka’s international airports boost tourism to popular spots like Gokarna, Coorg, and Udupi. Bengaluru Airport serves as a gateway for business travellers to the tech hub. Mangaluru International Airport helps beach tourists visit coastal areas.

These airports create jobs and bring money to nearby towns. Hotels, restaurants, and shops benefit from increased visitors. Foreign companies are more likely to invest in places with good air links.

Boosting Regional Air Connectivity

Smaller airports like Hubballi Airport improve travel within Karnataka. They connect cities like Hubli-Dharwad, Belagavi, and Mysore to larger hubs.

Better air links help spread economic growth to more parts of the state. People can travel quickly between cities for work or leisure. This makes it easier for businesses to operate in different regions.

Regional airports also support emergency services and cargo transport. They play a key role in connecting remote areas to urban centres.

Future Developments and Expansions

Karnataka is set to expand its airport network. New projects and upgrades are in the works to boost connectivity across the state.

New Airport Projects

Karnataka has discussed additional airport projects, but their approval and opening dates vary. Kuvempu Airport at Shivamogga (RQY) is already operational and belongs among the state’s regional airports, not future proposals.

Kuvempu Airport at Shivamogga (RQY/VOSH) is an operational regional airport. Check current airline routes and published aeronautical information before planning a flight.

Hassan Airport is expected to boost tourism in the region. It will have a 1,900-meter runway suitable for ATR-72 type aircraft.

Karwar Airport aims to improve connectivity to the coastal areas. The project is in its early stages of planning.

Upgrades to Existing Airports

Kalaburagi Airport, which opened in 2019, may see future expansions to handle larger aircraft. This could increase its passenger capacity and flight options.

Ballari Airport is set for upgrades to improve its facilities and potentially allow for bigger planes to land.

A second airport for the Bengaluru region has been discussed, but a proposed location is not an operational airport. Check official state and aviation-authority announcements for approvals, site selection and opening status.

Mangaluru International Airport is planning an expansion. This will help it handle more passengers and improve its services.

Role in Education and Training

Karnataka’s airports play a key part in training pilots and air force personnel. They provide facilities for flying schools and host important military stations.

Flying Schools and Military Stations

Jakkur Aerodrome near Bangalore is home to a flying school. It helps train new pilots in a controlled environment.

Yelahanka Air Force Station is a major training base. It hosts the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment, which tests new planes and systems.

Bidar Air Force Station trains young pilots to fly transport planes. It’s an important site for the Indian Air Force’s training programs.

Some private airports also support pilot training. Vidyanagar Airport and Jindal Vijayanagar Airport have facilities for flight instruction.

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, uses Karnataka’s airports for crew training. This helps prepare staff for real-world flying conditions.

These training sites are vital for India’s aviation sector. They ensure a steady supply of skilled pilots and air force personnel.

Cultural and Linguistic Considerations

Karnataka is a state rich in cultural diversity. Its official language is Kannada, spoken by most of the population.

At Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, visitors can experience Karnataka’s culture through art installations and traditional decor. The airport showcases the state’s heritage and “Garden City” identity.

Mangaluru, home to an international airport, represents the coastal culture of Karnataka. It blends influences from neighbouring Kerala and Goa.

Mysuru, known for its royal history, contributes to the state’s cultural tapestry. Though it lacks an international airport, its cultural significance attracts tourists.

Airports in Karnataka often feature signage in multiple languages:

Kannada
English
Hindi

This multilingual approach helps both domestic and international travellers navigate easily. It reflects Karnataka’s position as a global technology hub while honouring its linguistic roots.

Airport staff typically speak Kannada and English. In tourist-heavy areas, knowledge of other Indian languages is common.

Karnataka’s airports serve as gateways to its diverse regions, each with unique traditions and dialects. They play a crucial role in promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage to the world.

Traveler Information and Tips

Karnataka has two international airports serving travellers. These are located in Bangalore and Mangalore.

Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore is the busiest of the two. It offers many facilities for passengers:

Free Wi-Fi
Currency exchange
Lounges
Duty-free shops
Restaurants

Cabin and checked-baggage allowances depend on the airline, fare, route and aircraft. Check the allowance on your ticket and with the operating airline before departure.

For local transport in Bangalore, the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation runs bus services to and from the airport. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Mangalore International Airport, also known as Bajpe Airport, is smaller but still offers key amenities:

ATMs
Food outlets
Taxi services

Both airports serve domestic and international routes. Popular destinations include:

Middle Eastern countries
Southeast Asian cities
Major Indian metros

Travelers should arrive at least 2-3 hours before international flights to allow time for security checks and immigration procedures.

More India airport guides: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Kerala. City guide: Bangalore airports.

Coastal Karnataka airport guide: See the Mangalore Airport (IXE) guide for business aviation handling, fuel and operational planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Karnataka has several international airports serving different regions of the state. These airports connect Karnataka to destinations around the world and play a key role in the state’s transportation infrastructure.

What is the total number of international airports present in Bangalore?

Bangalore has one international airport. It is called Kempegowda International Airport. This airport is the busiest in Karnataka and the third busiest in India.

Can you list all the international airports found in Karnataka?

Karnataka’s principal international passenger gateways are Bengaluru (BLR) and Mangaluru (IXE):

Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru
Mangalore International Airport in Mangalore
Shivamogga (RQY) is a regional airport; it is not an international gateway.

How many airports, including both domestic and international, are there in Karnataka?

Karnataka has Bengaluru and Mangaluru as its principal international passenger gateways, along with regional airports and other aviation facilities. A statewide total depends on whether private airfields, defence stations and training aerodromes are counted; verify the status of a specific airport before planning a flight.

Identify the largest international airport in Karnataka by its capacity.

Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is Karnataka’s busiest airport by passenger traffic. Check the airport operator’s published statistics for a dated passenger total.