Exploring the Largest Airports in India: Key Facts and Insights

India is a vast and diverse country with numerous airports serving its major cities. Today, we will delve into the details of the largest airports in India, with a focus on popular destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. Understanding the current state of these airports is crucial for both travelers and aviation enthusiasts.

Indira Gandhi International Airport: Delhi's Largest Airport

The largest airport in India is the Indira Gandhi International Airport, located in the Union Territory of Delhi. It is one of the primary gateways for international travelers to India. The airport has a striking expansion of approximately 5500 acres and handles a considerable number of flights.

Key Facts

Location: Delhi, Union Territory of IndiaCapacity: Approximately 5500 flights per dayPassenger Volume: 3rd busiest for domestic traffic, 9th for international traffic

This airport is not only crucial for its capacity but also for its strategic importance in the country.

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport: The Largest by Area

While Indira Gandhi International Airport is the busiest, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport covers the largest area of approximately 5945 acres. It serves the bustling city of Hyderabad, in the state of Telangana.

Key Highlights

Location: Hyderabad, TelanganaDaily Flights: More than 5500 flightsInternational Traffic: 4th busiest in terms of international passengers, handling around 12.4 million passengers

The airport's large area provides ample space for expansion and accommodation of high traffic volumes.

Kerala's Advantage in Airports

Interestingly, Kerala, a state known for its beautiful beaches and lush landscapes, has now taken the lead in terms of international airport density. Thanks to the inauguration of a new airport at Kannur, Kerala now boasts the highest density of international airports among all Indian states.

Key Points

New Airport at Kannur: Added to increase international connectivityState Leader: Highest density of international airportsExisting Airports: Wayanad, Thiruvananthapuram, and Cochin International Airports

Kerala's initiative to enhance its air connectivity can be seen as a testament to its growing importance in the global tourism and aviation sector.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport: Mumbai's Monolith

Another prominent airport in India is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, located in Mumbai. This airport not only handles the highest traffic overall but is also the oldest airport in the country, serving about 45 million passengers per annum. Designed by the renowned architects Skidmore Owings Merrill, who are also known for the iconic Burj Khalifa, this airport represents a blend of history and modern architecture.

Key Facts

Location: Mumbai, MaharashtraDaily Passengers: Approximately 250,000Architects: Skidmore Owings MerrillPassenger Volume: Oldest airport and handles about 45 million passengers annually

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is often the first or last point of contact for international travelers visiting Mumbai, contributing significantly to the city's economic and cultural vibrancy.