People are always fascinated by airports due to the combination of factors, including the anticipation of travel, the liminal space they occupy, and the human story they hold. It is often associated with the joy of travel, whether it's a vacation, a visit to loved ones, or a new adventure. It always represents a gateway to new experiences and destinations. It acts like a transnational zone where the family rules of daily life don’t work. It is not only a medium to catch our flights, but many things in between, which include a vast infrastructure of an airport with hidden areas and unseen workers, that can evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue. Airports are always special and beautiful, whichever country they belong to, but Indian airports stand out for their strategic location, modern facilities, and their primary objective of connecting different cities and foreign countries. We have listed down the best airports in India to make you aware of their specialty and uniqueness.
List of Best Airports in India
Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi
Known as the Delhi Airport of India, Indira Gandhi International Airport is the primary International airport serving New Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) in India. It has three terminals: Terminal 1, 2, and 3, and four runways. The airport has implemented AI-powered systems to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and security. It is a hub for various aerospace companies, including Air India, Air India Regional, Blue Dart Aviation, GoAir, IndiGo, JetLite, and SpiceJet. It offers baggage services, business centers, lounges, shopping, dining, and more. With lots of high-end facilities, Delhi airport is one of the top airports in India.
Kempegawda International Airport, Bangalore
A modern greenfield airport, Kempegowda International Airport, serves as a major hub of domestic and international travel in India. Developed by Bangalore International Airport Limited, Bangalore airport is the first airport which was constructed under the public-private model and paved the way for airport privatization in India. It offers cutting-edge technology, which includes biometric-based self-boarding, self-bag-drop, and contactless passenger processing.
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad
The first airport in India to utilize AI and data analysis in the airport, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, stands out for its efficient operations, real-time insights, and smooth passenger experience through features like intelligent crowd management, flow and queue analytics, and passenger analytics management. GMR Airport has launched an AI-powered digital twin platform with an Advanced Airport Predictive Operation System, which integrates airside, landside, and terminal operations using real-time data. It is one of the top airports in India.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
Known for its modern infrastructure, efficient operations, and passenger-friendly amenities, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is a major hub for both domestic and international flights. It offers a wide range of lounges for both premium and economy class passengers. The airport offers various duty-free shops, retail outlets, and dining options for shopping and eating. Mumbai airport takes care of its passengers, and for that, it has a 24/7 medical center, pharmacy, and emergency services, which can be visited if required. With numerous facilities and conveniences, Mumbai Airport is one of the best domestic airports in India.
Chennai Anna International Airport, Chennai
The fifth busiest airport in India, Chennai Anna International Airport, serves as the major hub for this region. It serves a wide range of amenities and services to ensure a convenient travel experience, including many check-in counters, security kiosks, and baggage service desks. Also, to accommodate the growing demand, the airport is expanding with new terminals such as T2 and satellite terminals, to handle increased numbers of passengers annually. The airport offers various passenger-centric services, including meet and greet services, lounges, prayer rooms, and baby care facilities.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport, Kolkata
The primary aviation hub for eastern and northeastern India, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport boasts a modern architecture and a wide range of facilities, including free wi-fi, medical service, and child-care rooms. It also offers various dining options, duty-free shops, and retail outlets to explore the essence of Kolkata. It connects Kolkata to key destinations worldwide and serves as the major hub for domestic flights. The ceiling of the airport is decorated with Rabindranath Tagore’s letters and scripts, which introduce passengers to the beautiful art and culture of Bengal.
Kochi International Airport, Kochi
The world’s first fully solar-powered airport, Kochi International Airport, is known for its sustainable practice, advanced technology, and unique design inspired by Kerala’s traditional architecture and festival atmosphere. The airport is also called CIAL, which has a dedicated Cyber Defence Operation Center to monitor and respond to cyber threats. For sustainability and Advanced Infrastructure, the airport has accolades including the United Nations “Champion of the Earth” award. With numerous high-tech facilities and unique architecture, the airport is considered one of the most famous airports in India.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad
One of the top 10 airports in India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, consists of four terminals, including domestic, international, an additional terminal for secondary traffic, and a Cargo terminal. The airport has 45 parking bays and four aero bridges, in domestic and international areas. Its new terminal is inspired by Singapore Changi Airport, which has a half-kilometer-long moving walkway to connect two terminals. The AAI has announced plans to build a new Air Traffic Control Building as part of the airport modernization process.
Pune Airport, Pune
Located near Lohegaon Air Force Station, Pune Airport handles both domestic and international flights with two aerobridges and 26 check-in counters. The airport has experienced a name change from Pune Airport to Jagatguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj International Airport, which is approved by the state government. It is a crucial transit hub for the city, offering modern facilities and connectivity. It is one of the best airports in India.
Dabolim Airport, Goa
Located in the village of Dabolim, Goa, Dabolim Airport operates as a civil enclave in a military airbase named INS Hansa. Its integrated terminal building handles both domestic and International passengers, and its design features aesthetic glass, a large steel span structure, and frameless glazing. It's 36,000 square meters large and caters to five million passengers annually. It has 75 check-in counters, 22 immigration counters for departure, 18 immigration counters for arrival, 14 security check booths, and 8 customs counters.
Conclusion
The primary objective of an airport is to provide safe and efficient air transportation to passengers and cargo. But apart from it, the airport also provides a gateway to new experiences, fostering excitement and anticipation. Airports are always exciting as it has several things to do. It allows exploring a unique space where personal boundaries blur and a sense of community can develop among fellow travelers. Its vast and unique infrastructure evokes a sense of wonder and inspires us to go more into the depth. Every airport has its own story, which it conveys through the design and architecture that people love a lot. We have mentioned the 10 best airports in India, which will amaze you with their graceful architecture and exceptional services.