Kannur International Airport opened its doors in 2018, bringing new travel options to northern Kerala. The airport sits 28 km east of Kannur city and serves the North Malabar region. Kannur International Airport connects travelers to destinations across India and abroad, with flights to cities in the Middle East.
The airport uses the code CNN and spans a large area near the town of Mattannur. Its modern facilities can handle wide-body aircraft, allowing for long-haul international flights. The terminal building features amenities like shops, restaurants, and lounges for passenger comfort.
For visitors to the region, Kannur Airport provides a gateway to explore local attractions. The area is known for its beaches, folk arts, and historical sites. Travelers can easily access nearby towns and tourist spots after landing at this new aviation hub.
Kannur International Airport Overview
Kannur International Airport is a major aviation hub in Kerala, India. It serves the North Malabar region and has become crucial for local development and connectivity.
History and Development
Kannur International Airport opened in December 2018. The Kerala government and private investors joined forces to create KIAL (Kannur International Airport Limited) to build and run the airport.
The project took shape over many years. Planners chose Mattannur as the site due to its good location. Construction began in 2014 and finished in 2018.
The airport’s design allows for growth. It has a 3,050-meter runway that can handle big planes. The terminal can serve 2,000 passengers at peak times.
Importance to North Malabar Region
The airport has boosted North Malabar’s economy. It’s made travel easier for locals and tourists alike.
More flights mean more business chances. Companies can ship goods faster. The tourism industry has grown, bringing in more visitors.
The airport has created many jobs. It’s helped Kannur and nearby areas grow. Better transport links have made the region more attractive for investment.
Kannur International Airport connects to many cities in India and abroad. This has opened up new opportunities for trade and cultural exchange.
Airport Infrastructure
Kannur International Airport boasts modern facilities designed for efficiency and passenger comfort. The airport’s infrastructure combines cutting-edge technology with eco-friendly practices to create a seamless travel experience.
Integrated Passenger Terminal
The integrated passenger terminal at Kannur Airport spans 96,000 square meters. It can handle up to 2,000 passengers during peak hours. The terminal features separate areas for domestic and international flights.
Key features:
- 48 check-in counters
- 16 immigration counters
- 10 customs counters
- 3 baggage claim belts
The terminal’s design allows for easy passenger flow. It includes duty-free shops, lounges, and food courts. The building uses natural light to reduce energy consumption.
Aerobridges and Swing Facility
Kannur Airport has 8 aerobridges to connect aircraft directly to the terminal building. These covered walkways protect passengers from weather and enhance accessibility.
The airport’s unique swing facility allows flexible use of gates. It can switch between domestic and international operations based on flight schedules. This feature maximizes the use of available space and improves operational efficiency.
Benefits of the swing facility:
- Adapts to changing flight patterns
- Reduces congestion during peak hours
- Optimizes gate usage
Conveyor Belts and Check-In Counters
The airport has a robust baggage handling system. It includes multiple conveyor belts for smooth luggage transport. The system can process up to 2,400 bags per hour.
Check-in counters are equipped with modern technology. They offer quick and efficient service to passengers. Features include:
- Self-service kiosks
- Automated bag drop facilities
- Real-time flight information displays
These systems reduce wait times and improve the overall passenger experience.
Green Building Concept
Kannur Airport embraces eco-friendly design principles. The terminal building incorporates several green features:
- Solar panels for renewable energy
- Rainwater harvesting systems
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
- Waste management and recycling programs
The airport aims to minimize its environmental impact. It uses sustainable materials and practices in its operations. These efforts have earned the airport recognition for its commitment to sustainability.
Operational Aspects
Kannur International Airport handles both domestic and international flights. The airport has modern facilities for customs and emigration. It also offers various amenities and shops for travelers.
Flight Routes and Airline Partners
Kannur International Airport connects to major cities in India and abroad. IndiGo, a leading Indian airline, operates several routes from Kannur.
The airport serves destinations like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. International flights link Kannur to Gulf countries such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
Other airline partners include Air India Express, Go First, and SpiceJet. These carriers offer regular services to various domestic and international destinations.
Customs and Emigration Procedures
Kannur Airport has efficient customs and emigration processes. The facility is equipped with modern counters to handle international passengers.
Customs counters are staffed by trained officers who check goods and enforce regulations. Emigration counters process passports and verify travel documents quickly.
The airport uses advanced technology to speed up these procedures. This helps reduce waiting times for travelers entering or leaving the country.
Passenger Amenities and Shops
The airport terminal offers a range of amenities for passenger comfort. It has clean restrooms, comfortable seating areas, and free Wi-Fi.
Shops at Kannur Airport sell local products, souvenirs, and travel essentials. Travelers can find books, snacks, and electronics in these stores.
Food outlets serve both local and international cuisine. The airport also has currency exchange services and ATMs for traveler convenience.
Regional Connectivity
Kannur International Airport has greatly improved transportation in North Kerala. It connects many areas and has changed how people travel in the region.
Accessibility and Transportation
The Kannur International Airport is located 28 km east of Kannur city and 24 km east of Thalassery. This central position makes it easy to reach from many parts of North Malabar.
Taxis are the main way to get to and from the airport. They connect travellers to Kannur, Thalassery, and other nearby towns. The airport also serves parts of Karnataka and Puducherry.
Bus services link the airport to major cities in Kerala. This helps people from different areas use the airport. Roads to the airport have been improved, making travel smoother.
Impact on Surrounding Cities
The airport has boosted growth in Kannur District and nearby areas. Mattannur, where the airport is located, has seen rapid development. New hotels and businesses have opened to serve travellers.
Cities like Thalassery and Kannur have become more connected to other parts of India and the world. This has helped tourism and business in these places grow.
The airport project led to land acquisition in the area. The government gave compensation to affected families. This process changed the local landscape and economy.
North Malabar is now more accessible to visitors. This has increased interest in the region’s culture and attractions. The airport has put this part of Kerala on the global map.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kannur International Airport offers various services and facilities for travellers. Here are some common questions and answers about the airport’s operations, contact information, and amenities.
How can I check the current flight status at Kannur International Airport?
Passengers can check flight status on the airport’s official website. Real-time updates are available for arrivals and departures.
The airport also has information displays throughout the terminal showing current flight details.
What are the contact details for Kannur International Airport customer service?
The main contact number for Kannur International Airport is +91 490 248 1000. Customer service representatives are available to assist with inquiries.
Travellers can also reach out via email or social media channels for support.
What is the daily flight schedule for departures and arrivals at Kannur International Airport?
Kannur Airport serves 18 destinations with 2 airlines operating regular passenger flights. The busiest route is to Abu Dhabi, with about 17 weekly flights.
Flight schedules may change, so it’s best to check the airport website for the most up-to-date information.
Can you provide information on the ownership and management of Kannur International Airport?
Kannur International Airport is a public-private partnership. The Kerala government holds a majority stake in the airport.
A board of directors oversees the airport’s management and operations.
What facilities and services are available at Kannur International Airport for international travellers?
The airport has a single terminal capable of handling 2,000 passengers per hour. It offers duty-free shops, dining options, and currency exchange services.
International travellers can access lounges and immigration facilities within the terminal.
Are there any recent updates on the addition of international routes to Kannur International Airport?
As of December 2024, there have been ongoing efforts to expand international routes from Kannur Airport. New destinations are being considered to enhance connectivity.
Travelers should check the airport’s official announcements for the latest updates on new routes and airlines.
