Bangalore, the bustling tech hub of India, is home to a world-class airport system that serves millions of travellers each year. Many people wonder about the number of airports in this vibrant city.
Bangalore has one main airport, the Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), which handles both domestic and international flights. This state-of-the-art facility opened in 2008 and has since become one of the busiest airports in India. It features two passenger terminals to accommodate the growing air traffic.
While there are no other commercial airports within Bangalore city limits, the surrounding Karnataka state boasts several smaller airfields. These include the HAL Airport, which now mainly serves as an aviation testing facility, and the upcoming Shivamogga Airport in the wider region. Bangalore’s single international airport efficiently meets the city’s air travel needs, connecting it to destinations across India and the world.
Overview of Bangalore Airports
Bangalore has two main airports serving the city. These airports handle domestic and international flights, connecting Bangalore to destinations across India and around the world.
Kempegowda International Airport
Kempegowda International Airport is Bangalore’s primary airport. It opened in 2008 and is located in Devanahalli, about 40 km from the city center. The airport has two runways and can handle large aircraft.
The airport code is BLR, and its ICAO code is VOBL. It serves both domestic and international flights. Many major airlines operate from here.
Kempegowda International Airport has two terminals:
- Terminal 1 (T1)
- Terminal 2 (T2)
These terminals have shops, restaurants, and lounges for passengers. The airport is modern and equipped with advanced technology.
HAL Airport
HAL Airport, also known as Bangalore Airport, was the city’s main airport until 2008. It is owned by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a defense company.
The airport is located in the eastern part of Bangalore. It now mainly handles smaller aircraft and private jets. Some flight training also takes place here.
HAL Airport has a single runway. It is closer to the city center than Kempegowda International Airport. This makes it convenient for certain types of flights.
Airport Infrastructure
Bangalore’s airport has modern facilities to handle millions of travelers each year. It has passenger terminals, runways, control towers, and cargo areas.
Passenger Terminals
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) has two main passenger terminals. Terminal 1 opened in 2008 and can handle 20 million passengers per year. It has 90 check-in counters and 18 boarding gates.
Terminal 2 began operations in 2022. This new terminal can serve 25 million more travelers yearly. It has a unique design inspired by Bangalore’s gardens.
Both terminals have shops, restaurants, and lounges. They use technology like self-check-in kiosks to speed up the travel process.
Runways and Control Towers
Kempegowda International Airport has two runways. The main runway is 4,000 meters long and can handle large aircraft like the Airbus A380. The second runway opened in 2019 and is 4,000 meters long as well.
There is one main air traffic control tower. It’s 65 meters tall and gives controllers a clear view of both runways. The tower uses advanced radar and communication systems to manage takeoffs and landings safely.
Cargo Facilities
BLR airport has a large cargo village to handle freight. It covers 11 acres and can process 570,000 tons of cargo each year.
The cargo area has special storage for items like flowers and medicines that need careful handling. It also has x-ray machines and other security tools to check packages.
Major cargo airlines use these facilities to ship goods to and from Bangalore. The airport plans to expand its cargo capacity to meet growing demand.
Airport Operations
Bangalore’s airports handle various operational tasks to ensure smooth air travel. These include managing airline services, coordinating ground operations, and providing maintenance support.
Airline Services
Kempegowda International Airport serves as the main hub for airline services in Bangalore. It handles both domestic and international flights. The airport uses the IATA code BLR and ICAO code VOBL.
Airlines offer check-in services, baggage handling, and boarding assistance. Passengers can find ticket counters and information desks throughout the terminal.
The airport provides modern facilities like self-check-in kiosks and automated baggage drops. This helps speed up the process for travelers.
Ground Handling
Ground handling teams manage aircraft and passenger needs on the tarmac. They guide planes to parking spots and connect jet bridges for boarding.
Staff load and unload luggage, cargo, and catering supplies. They also refuel planes and provide cleaning services between flights.
Ground handlers use specialized equipment like tugs, belt loaders, and passenger stairs. Safety is a top priority in all ground operations.
Maintenance Services
Aircraft maintenance is crucial for safe air travel. Bangalore’s airports have hangars and workshops for this purpose.
Technicians perform routine checks, repairs, and major overhauls on planes. They inspect engines, landing gear, and electronic systems.
The airports stock spare parts and tools for various aircraft types. Some airlines have their own maintenance facilities at the airport.
Maintenance crews work around the clock to keep planes in top condition. This ensures that flights can depart on time and reach their destinations safely.
Connectivity and Transportation
Bangalore airport offers various transportation options to and from the city. Travelers can choose from shuttle services, public transit, and private transportation based on their preferences and needs.
Shuttle Services
The airport provides regular shuttle services to key areas in Bangalore. These air-conditioned buses run 24/7 and stop at major hotels and transport hubs. Tickets can be bought online or at counters in the airport.
Shuttle routes cover North, South, and East Bangalore. The journey time varies from 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. Buses are equipped with GPS tracking for real-time updates.
Luggage space is available on all shuttles. Passengers can track their bus location using a mobile app.
Public Transit Access
Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) operates Vayu Vajra bus services to the airport. These buses connect the airport to various parts of the city.
BMTC buses are affordable and run frequently. They have dedicated lanes on some routes to avoid traffic.
A metro link to the airport is in the planning stages. This will provide faster connectivity once completed.
The nearest railway station is about 12 kilometres from the airport. Taxis are available for this short trip.
Private Transportation Options
Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available at the airport. Pre-paid taxi counters offer fixed rates to different parts of the city.
Car rental services operate at the airport for those who prefer to drive. Both self-drive and chauffeur-driven options are available.
Many hotels provide shuttle services for their guests. These can be booked in advance for a hassle-free transfer.
For a more luxurious option, limousine services can be arranged through the airport’s concierge desk.
Regional Airport Network
Karnataka has several key regional airports that serve different parts of the state. These airports connect smaller cities to major hubs and boost local economies.
Mysore Airport
Mysore Airport serves the historic city of Mysore. It opened in 2010 and has a single runway. The airport handles domestic flights to Bangalore and Chennai.
Passenger traffic has grown steadily since its opening. In 2019, over 60,000 travellers used the airport. The terminal can handle up to 200 passengers per hour.
Future plans include extending the runway to allow larger aircraft. This would enable more routes and boost tourism to Mysore’s famous palaces and landmarks.
Hubballi Airport
Hubballi Airport is located in north Karnataka. It serves the twin cities of Hubballi and Dharwad. The airport has seen major upgrades in recent years.
A new terminal opened in 2017, increasing capacity to 300 passengers per hour. The runway was extended to 2,600 meters to handle bigger planes.
Domestic flights now connect Hubballi to Bangalore, Mumbai, and other cities. This has helped grow local businesses and education centers.
Mangalore International Airport
Mangalore International Airport is a major gateway for coastal Karnataka. It handles both domestic and international flights. The airport is known for its table-top runway, one of few in India.
Over 2 million passengers used the airport in 2019. It connects to Gulf countries, making it vital for overseas workers. Domestic routes link Mangalore to major Indian cities.
Recent upgrades include a new terminal and improved navigation systems. These changes have boosted capacity and safety at this important regional hub.
Travel Experience and Services
Bengaluru Airport aims to make travel smooth and enjoyable. It offers many services to meet traveller needs.
Amenities and Lounge Area
The airport has comfy lounge areas for passengers to relax. These spaces have comfy seats, free Wi-Fi, and charging points. Some lounges offer food and drinks.
There are also prayer rooms and smoking zones. For those with long layovers, the airport has sleep pods. These pods give travellers a quiet place to rest.
Special services are available for travellers with disabilities. These include wheelchair assistance and special restrooms.
Shopping and Dining
Bengaluru Airport has many shops and eateries. Travelers can buy local crafts, books, and fashion items. There are also duty-free shops for international travellers.
The food court has a mix of local and global cuisines. Quick bites and sit-down meals are both available. Some popular options include:
- South Indian food
- Pizza and burgers
- Coffee shops
- Ice cream parlours
Many restaurants are open 24/7 to serve passengers at all hours.
Customer Support
The airport has help desks throughout the terminals. Staff can assist with flight info, lost items, and general queries.
There’s a 24-hour customer care hotline for urgent issues. The airport also has a mobile app. It gives real-time flight updates and airport info.
For international travellers, there are currency exchange booths. These help with money matters before or after flights.
The airport has a feedback system to improve services. Passengers can share their thoughts via kiosks or online forms.
Sustainability and Innovation
Bengaluru’s airport leads the way in eco-friendly practices and cutting-edge technology. Its efforts focus on reducing environmental impact while enhancing passenger experience.
Energy Efficiency Initiatives
The newly launched Terminal 2 at Bengaluru Airport showcases a strong commitment to sustainability. It uses energy-efficient lighting and climate control systems. The terminal’s design maximizes natural light, cutting electricity use.
Solar panels on the roof generate clean power. Waste management systems recycle and compost materials. Water conservation measures include rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling.
The airport earned LEED Platinum pre-certification for Terminal 2. This recognizes its high standards in green building practices.
Sustainable Transportation
Bengaluru Airport promotes eco-friendly travel options. Electric vehicles serve passengers inside the airport. Charging stations encourage the use of electric cars.
Public transit links reduce private car use. A proposed metro line will connect the airport to the city centre. Bike paths and pedestrian walkways offer emissions-free options.
The airport uses electric ground support equipment. This cuts diesel emissions on the tarmac. Improved air traffic management reduces aircraft fuel burn and emissions.
Future Developments
Bengaluru’s airport infrastructure is set to expand significantly in the coming years. New facilities and cutting-edge technologies will enhance the travel experience for passengers.
Master Plan and Expansion
Bengaluru is planning a second airport to meet future demand. The government is considering several locations, including Dabaspet, Nelamangala, Bidadi, and Harohalli. This new airport will complement the existing Kempegowda International Airport (BLR).
The location for the second airport will likely be announced in early 2025. It will help manage the city’s growing air traffic needs. The current exclusivity agreement for BLR expires in 2033, allowing for this expansion.
Technological Advancements
Bengaluru’s airports are embracing new technologies to improve operations. These include:
- AI-driven traffic management systems
- Biometric boarding processes
- Automated baggage handling
The Kempegowda International Airport is implementing a digital twin system. This virtual replica will help optimize airport functions and passenger flow.
Advanced security measures, like full-body scanners and facial recognition, will enhance safety. These improvements aim to reduce wait times and boost efficiency across all airport operations.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
India has clear rules for airports. These laws cover how airports run and stay safe. They also say who’s in charge of making sure everything works right.
Aviation Laws
The Aircraft Act of 1934 is a key law for Indian airports. It tells how to build and run airports. The act covers all types, even new ones. It gives power to the government to make more rules.
Another important law is the Airports Authority of India (AAI) Act. This act set up the AAI. The AAI:
- Manages most Indian airports
- Helps private airports too
- Makes sure air traffic control works well
The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) watches over big airports. It sets rules for fees and services at busy spots like Bangalore.
Safety and Security Protocols
Indian airports follow strict safety rules. These come from both Indian and world standards. Key safety measures include:
- Regular checks of runways and buildings
- Trained staff for emergencies
- Up-to-date air traffic control systems
Security is also very tight. Airports use:
- X-ray machines for bags
- Metal detectors for people
- Armed guards in key areas
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security sets these rules. They make sure all Indian airports stay safe. This helps keep air travel in India secure for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bangalore has one main international airport. Karnataka has multiple airports serving different cities. The primary airport in Bangalore has two terminals with distinct functions.
What is the name of the primary international airport in Bangalore?
The main international airport in Bangalore is called Kempegowda International Airport. It is located about 35 kilometres north of the city centre.
How many domestic airports are available in Karnataka?
Karnataka has several domestic airports. The exact number varies depending on classification, but it includes airports in cities like Mysore, Hubli, and Belgaum.
Can you list the international airports found in Karnataka?
Karnataka has two international airports. They are Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore and Mangaluru International Airport in Mangalore.
Are there multiple airports servicing Bangalore city?
Bangalore is primarily served by one airport. Kempegowda International Airport handles both domestic and international flights for the city.
What are the differences between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 in Bangalore’s main airport?
Kempegowda International Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 handles domestic flights and some international departures. Terminal 2 is used for international arrivals and some international departures.
Which other Indian cities have more than one airport?
Some Indian cities with multiple airports include Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. These cities have separate domestic and international airports or additional smaller airfields.
