Key Highlights
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) is a major international airport serving Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar in Gujarat.
- The airport features two primary terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights.
- It is the seventh busiest airport in India, handling over 13 million passengers annually.
- Excellent connectivity is offered through a wide range of domestic and international airlines.
- The airport terminal provides modern facilities, including lounges, dining, and shopping.
- Ground transportation options ensure easy access to and from the city center.
Introduction
Welcome to Ahmedabad, a city rich in history and culture! Your journey likely begins at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD), a crucial gateway to western India. This bustling hub serves the twin cities of Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, connecting millions of travelers each year. As the busiest airport in Gujarat, it offers a seamless travel experience with modern amenities and excellent connectivity, making it the perfect starting point for exploring this vibrant region.
Overview of Ahmedabad Airport
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport stands as a testament to modern aviation, managed by Ahmedabad International Airport Limited (AIAL), a subsidiary of Adani Airports. It was previously operated by the Airports Authority of India and has grown into the seventh busiest airport in the country, reflecting the region’s economic dynamism.
The airport features a well-organized layout with a dedicated terminal for domestic and international travel, ensuring a smooth flow of passengers. With its continuous upgrades and focus on passenger comfort, it serves as a key aviation hub in Ahmedabad. Let’s look closer at its official details and terminal facilities.
Official Name, Airport Code, and Location
What is the official name and code of Ahmedabad airport? The airport’s official name is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, a title it holds in honor of a key figure in India’s history. For travel and booking purposes, it is recognized globally by its IATA airport code, AMD.
The airport is named after Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Deputy Prime Minister of India, who was a prominent leader from Gujarat. This naming connects the modern infrastructure of the airport with the rich heritage and leadership of the state. In 2011, a statue of Sardar Patel was inaugurated at the airport to commemorate his legacy.
Conveniently located in Hansol, Ahmedabad, the airport is approximately 9 km north of the city center. This prime location ensures that you can easily access the heart of Ahmedabad and the state capital, Gandhinagar, shortly after your arrival, making it an ideal starting point for your journey in Gujarat.
Terminal Layout and Key Facilities
The airport is structured to handle a high volume of traffic efficiently with four terminals: Terminal 1 (domestic), Terminal 2 (international), a terminal for secondary traffic, and a dedicated cargo terminal. This layout helps separate domestic and international airport operations, providing a streamlined experience for travelers. A 500-meter-long moving walkway also connects the main terminals, adding to passenger convenience.
Terminal 1, used for most domestic flights, has a total floor area of 45,000 square meters and is equipped with 32 check-in counters. The international terminal, T2, spans approximately 41,000 square meters and also features 32 check-in counters and four aerobridges. This terminal was modeled on Singapore’s Changi Airport and is designed to handle around 1,600 passengers at any given time.
What are the main facilities available at Ahmedabad airport for travelers? Beyond the passenger terminals, the airport includes a significant cargo terminal to support Gujarat’s trade and commerce. The facilities are managed by Adani Airports, which focuses on providing a world-class experience through modern infrastructure, including 45 aircraft parking bays and numerous passenger amenities.
Airlines and Destinations
Ahmedabad Airport boasts an impressive network of airlines and destinations, ensuring robust connectivity for travelers. Major carriers like Air India, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines operate regular flights, linking Ahmedabad to key cities across the globe. Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, you will find a wide array of routes to choose from.
This extensive network solidifies the airport’s position as a critical aviation hub in western India. The following sections will provide more details on the domestic carriers and international routes available from Ahmedabad.
Domestic Flights and Major Carriers
As a key centre for air travel within India, Ahmedabad Airport serves as an operating base for major carriers like IndiGo and a focus city for Air India. These airlines, along with others such as SpiceJet and Akasa Air, offer a vast network of domestic flights, connecting Ahmedabad to major metropolitan areas and tourist destinations across the country.
The airport provides direct connectivity to many Indian cities, making it easy for you to plan your travel. Some of the most popular domestic routes include:
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Bengaluru
- Pune
These routes are serviced frequently throughout the day, offering flexibility for both business and leisure travelers. The airport’s efficient domestic operations ensure that you can easily travel from the city centre of Ahmedabad to virtually any part of India, including regional destinations like Surat and Diu.
International Routes and Connectivity
The international terminal at Ahmedabad Airport is your gateway to the world, offering numerous international flights that enhance global connectivity. These airport operations connect passengers to major international hubs, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, with renowned airlines providing reliable service.
Several prestigious international airlines operate from Ahmedabad. Here are some of the major carriers and their primary destinations:
| Airline | Key Destination |
|---|---|
| Emirates | Dubai–International |
| Qatar Airways | Doha |
| Singapore Airlines | Singapore |
| Etihad Airways | Abu Dhabi |
| Thai AirAsia | Bangkok–Don Mueang |
This strong network of international flights makes the airport a vital link for tourists, business travelers, and the large Gujarati diaspora living abroad. Airlines like Emirates and Singapore Airlines offer seamless connections to their global networks, further expanding your travel options from Ahmedabad.
Passenger Services and Amenities
Ahmedabad Airport is dedicated to providing a comfortable and convenient experience for every passenger. The terminals are equipped with a wide range of services and amenities designed to meet the needs of modern travelers, from business professionals to families.
Whether you are looking for a place to relax before your flight, need to handle last-minute financial transactions at ATMs, or require assistance with your baggage, the airport has you covered. The facilities cater to both domestic and international passengers, ensuring your journey starts and ends smoothly.
Lounges, Relaxation Spaces, and Wi-Fi Access
Are there any lounges or relaxation areas at Ahmedabad airport? Yes, the airport offers premium lounges for passengers seeking comfort and relaxation before their flight. Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 feature Plaza Premium Lounges, providing a quiet space away from the busy terminal floor. These lounges are accessible to business class travelers and members of programs like Priority Pass.
These exclusive spaces offer a variety of complimentary amenities to enhance your pre-flight experience. You can expect to find:
- Comfortable seating arrangements
- A selection of snacks and beverages
- Wi-Fi access for work or entertainment
- A peaceful environment for relaxation
Does Ahmedabad airport offer free Wi-Fi to passengers? Yes, you can stay connected with free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport terminals. The service is typically offered for a limited duration (e.g., 30 minutes), after which you can purchase a plan for extended high-speed access, ensuring you can catch up on emails or browse online while you wait.
Shopping, Dining, and Special Facilities
What restaurants and shops are present inside Ahmedabad airport? The airport offers a diverse range of shopping and dining options to keep you engaged. From luxury goods to local handicrafts, the retail shops provide plenty of choices for last-minute gifts or travel essentials. The dining scene is just as varied, with restaurants and cafes serving everything from quick bites to full meals.
You can find a host of facilities designed to make your travel experience more convenient. These include:
- Duty-free shops in the international terminal for tax-free purchases.
- A variety of retail outlets offering books, electronics, and apparel.
- Food and beverage counters featuring local and international cuisine.
- Special facilities like currency exchange counters and baby care rooms.
These amenities ensure that all your needs are met under one roof. Whether you need to exchange currency, find a quiet spot to care for your baby, or simply enjoy a meal, the airport provides these special facilities to ensure a hassle-free journey.
Ground Transportation and Parking
Getting to and from Ahmedabad Airport is straightforward, thanks to a variety of ground transportation options. Whether you prefer a taxi, a rideshare service, or public transport, you can easily connect to the city centre and surrounding areas. The airport is well-integrated with the city’s transport network.
Parking facilities are also available for those who choose to drive. These options cater to different vehicle types, providing a secure place to leave your car while you travel. The seamless access to transportation makes the airport a convenient hub for travelers arriving in or departing from Ahmedabad.
Taxi, Bus, and Rideshare Options to the City Center
How do I get from Ahmedabad airport to the city center? Reaching the city centre, located just 9 km away, is simple with multiple transportation choices available right at the terminal. You can opt for prepaid taxis for a fixed fare or use popular rideshare apps for on-demand service.
For your convenience, here are the primary options to get you to your destination:
- Taxi and Rideshare: App-based services like Ola and Uber are readily available, along with traditional prepaid taxi counters.
- Bus: The airport operates an air-conditioned BRTS electric bus service that connects the terminals to various destinations across Ahmedabad.
- Car Rentals: Several car rental agencies have counters at the airport if you prefer to drive yourself.
- Auto Rickshaws: For lighter luggage and shorter distances, auto rickshaws offer an affordable and local travel experience.
What are the parking options and charges at Ahmedabad airport? The airport provides designated parking areas for two-wheelers, four-wheelers, and commercial vehicles. While parking charges can vary, you can find the most current rates and information on the official airport website to plan your visit accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check live flight arrivals and departures?
You can easily check live flight arrivals and departures on the official Ahmedabad International Airport website or the Adani One mobile app. Additionally, large display screens are placed throughout the airport terminals, providing real-time information on all domestic and international flights for your convenience.
How do I contact the airport for lost and found?
If you have lost an item, the process depends on where it was misplaced. For items left on an aircraft, you should contact the respective airline directly. For anything lost within the terminal, you can visit the lost and found service counters managed by Adani Airports at the arrival or departure levels.
How is Ahmedabad Airport rated for its service quality?
Ahmedabad Airport has earned high praise for its service quality. In 2017, it was recognized by Airports Council International as the “Most Improved Airport in the Asia-Pacific Region.” It also won three Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards in 2019 for its excellent customer service, environment, and infrastructure. Source