Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, also known as IDR, is a busy travel hub in Indore, India. It ranks as the 18th busiest airport in India by passenger traffic and serves as the main gateway to central India. The airport is named after Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar, a respected ruler of the Maratha Empire.
Located just 8 km west of Indore city, this airport offers both domestic and international flights. It plays a key role in connecting Indore to major cities across India and some foreign destinations. The Airports Authority of India manages the facility, making sure it runs smoothly for travellers.
Passengers using IDR can enjoy modern amenities and services. The airport has check-in counters, security checks, and waiting areas to make travel easier. It also helps boost trade and tourism in the region, bringing more people to explore Indore and its surroundings.
History and Development
Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport has grown significantly since its early days. The airport’s evolution reflects India’s expanding air travel needs and infrastructure development efforts.
Establishment of Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport
The airport began operations in the 1940s as a small airfield. It was originally built to serve Indore, a major city in the state of Madhya Pradesh.
The facility was named after Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar, a respected 18th-century ruler of the Malwa kingdom. This name honours her contributions to the region.
In its early years, the airport had basic infrastructure. It could handle only a few flights per day. The runway and terminal were modest in size.
Role of the Airports Authority of India
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) took over management of the airport in the 1990s. This marked a turning point in the airport’s development.
Under AAI oversight, Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport saw major upgrades. The runway was extended to handle larger aircraft. A new terminal building opened, expanding passenger capacity.
AAI invested in modern navigation aids and security systems. These improvements allowed the airport to handle more flights and offer better service.
By 2018-19, the airport had become the 18th busiest in India for passenger traffic. This growth reflects AAI’s efforts to boost the airport’s capabilities and importance.
Airport Infrastructure
Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport has modern facilities and a well-designed layout. It offers passengers comfort and efficiency with its terminal building and airside infrastructure.
Terminal Facilities
The airport terminal is equipped with amenities for travellers. It has check-in counters, security checkpoints, and baggage claim areas. Passengers can find shops and food options inside.
The terminal has comfortable seating areas and air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is available for passengers to stay connected. There are also ATMs and currency exchange services.
For those with special needs, the airport provides wheelchair assistance. The terminal is designed to be accessible to all travellers.
Runway and Airside Infrastructure
Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (IDR) has a single runway that can handle various aircraft types. The runway is 2750 meters long, allowing for safe takeoffs and landings of domestic and international flights.
The airport has modern navigation aids and lighting systems. These help pilots during different weather conditions. The airside area includes taxiways and aircraft parking stands.
Ground handling equipment is available for quick turnaround times. The airport also has refuelling facilities for aircraft. Fire and rescue services are on standby for emergencies.
Airlines and Destinations
The airport offers a range of flight options. It serves both domestic and international routes, connecting Indore to major cities across India and abroad.
Domestic Routes
Indore Airport links to many Indian cities. IndiGo and Air India are key airlines operating here. They fly to places like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
IndiGo runs frequent flights to major hubs. Its routes include Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. Air India connects Indore to Delhi and Mumbai regularly.
Other airlines serving IDR are Air India Express and Alliance Air. They add more domestic options for travellers. Air India Express plans to start flights to Hyderabad on January 15, 2025.
International Connectivity
IDR has grown its global reach in recent years. It now offers direct flights to international destinations.
Air India Express flies to Sharjah, linking Indore to the UAE. This route is popular among business travellers and tourists. It opens up connections to other Middle Eastern countries.
The airport aims to add more international routes. Plans are in place to connect Indore with other key global cities. This expansion will boost tourism and trade in the region.
Passenger Information
Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport offers a range of services to make travel smooth and comfortable. Passengers can find essential facilities and amenities to meet their needs before and after flights.
Arrival and Departure Processes
The Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport has a single terminal for both domestic and international flights. Passengers should arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
Check-in counters close 45 minutes before departure. The airport has 16 check-in counters to handle passenger traffic efficiently.
For arrivals, baggage claim areas are clearly marked. Immigration and customs processes are in place for international travellers.
The airport can handle up to 700 passengers during peak hours. This capacity helps reduce wait times and congestion.
Services and Amenities
The airport provides various amenities to enhance the passenger experience. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal building.
Food and beverage options include cafes and restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Duty-free shops offer a selection of goods for international travellers.
For passenger comfort, the airport has lounges, seating areas, and charging stations. ATMs and currency exchange services are also available.
The airport is wheelchair accessible and offers assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Medical facilities are on hand for emergencies.
Car rental services and taxi stands are located outside the terminal for onward travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport serves Indore and is a key transportation hub in Central India. Here are answers to common questions about the airport’s location, contact details, and operations.
What is the address of the airport named after Ahilyabai Holkar?
The Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport is located 8 km west of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. Its full address is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore, Madhya Pradesh – 452005, India.
How can one contact the Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport?
The airport can be reached by phone at 91-731-2629 455 or 91-731-2622 021. For written communication, the fax numbers are 91-731-2620 278 and 91-731-2621 530.
When was the Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport officially opened?
The exact opening date of the airport is not provided in the given search results. More research would be needed to find this information.
Are there any job opportunities currently available at the Airport?
The search results do not provide information about current job openings at the airport. Interested individuals should check the official airport website or contact the airport directly for employment opportunities.
What is the process for checking arrivals at the airport?
The search results do not specify the arrival checking process. Typically, airports have digital displays or information desks where passengers can check flight arrivals.
Which body is responsible for the management of the Indore Airport?
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is responsible for the maintenance and management of Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport. AAI oversees the airport’s operations and development.
