Key Highlights
When planning a trip, one of the most crucial aspects is ensuring seamless travel logistics, especially when it comes to airports. For those traveling to or from Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, knowing what the Allahabad Airport has to offer can make all the difference in your journey. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Allahabad Airport—from its location and historical significance to the infrastructure that supports both domestic and international flights. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, understanding the available services and transportation options will help you navigate your travel plans with ease. Let’s dive into this essential resource for travelers in and out of Prayagraj!
Introduction
Welcome to your guide to Prayagraj Airport! This important travel hub serves the historic city of Prayagraj and the wider region in Uttar Pradesh, India. Managed in part by the Airports Authority of India, it plays a vital role in connecting millions of travelers for business, tourism, and pilgrimage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent flyer, this airport offers a gateway to one of the most culturally significant areas in the country. Let’s explore what this facility has to offer.
Overview of Allahabad Airport
Prayagraj Airport, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the oldest airports in India. It serves as a crucial connection point for the city of Prayagraj, a place of immense religious and historical importance. The airport has a unique operational structure, functioning as a civil enclave at the Bamrauli Air Force Station.
This joint operation ensures that the facility meets both civilian and military aviation needs. Over the years, the airport has undergone significant upgrades to handle growing passenger traffic, solidifying its status as a key transportation hub in the region. Now, let’s look closer at its specific location and history.
Location and IATA Code
Where is Prayagraj Airport located? You’ll find it in the Bamrauli suburb, approximately 12 km (about 7.5 miles) from the heart of Prayagraj city. Its strategic position makes it easily accessible for travelers heading to or from the city and surrounding areas in Uttar Pradesh.
The official IATA code for Prayagraj Airport is IXD. This three-letter code is used by airlines and travel agencies worldwide to identify the airport for flight bookings, baggage handling, and air traffic control. When booking your flight to Prayagraj, you will use the IXD code.
Formerly known as Allahabad Airport, its name was updated to reflect the city’s change from Allahabad to Prayagraj. The ICAO code, used by air traffic control, is VEAB. Knowing these details can help you navigate your travel plans more smoothly.
Historical Background
The airport has a fascinating historical background, making it one of the oldest airports in India. Commercial aviation in the country traces its roots here, with the first-ever airmail flight taking off from Allahabad (now Prayagraj) on February 18, 1911. The airport itself was formally established in 1931 and was one of India’s first international airports, even offering flights to London.
The airport’s name was officially changed from Allahabad Airport to Prayagraj Airport. This change happened after the city of Allahabad was renamed Prayagraj by the state government. The airport’s name was updated to align with the city it serves, reflecting its modern identity while honoring its deep historical roots in the city of Prayagraj.
After a period with limited commercial activity, services were revived in the early 2000s. Today, it operates as a civil enclave at Bamrauli Air Force Station, a key base for the Indian Air Force, blending its historic legacy with modern operational demands.
Airport Infrastructure and Terminals
The infrastructure at Prayagraj Airport has been extensively modernized to accommodate a growing number of passengers. The airport features a new terminal building that was constructed at a remarkable speed ahead of the Kumbh 2019, showcasing impressive efficiency. This development was crucial for managing the flow of visitors to the city of Prayagraj.
With a single runway and expanding apron capacity, the airport is well-equipped to handle modern aircraft. The following sections provide more detail on the runway specifications and the services available to passengers inside the terminals.
Runway and Aircraft Handling
Prayagraj Airport is served by a single runway, designated 12/30. This asphalt runway measures 2,560 meters (8,400 feet) in length and 45 meters in width, making it suitable for handling narrow-body aircraft like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.
Is the airport managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI)? Yes, it is a joint-use facility. The civilian terminal and operations are managed by the AAI, while the runway and air traffic control are under the command of the Indian Air Force. This collaborative management ensures smooth and secure operations for all aircraft.
Furthermore, the airport is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS) CAT-I. This technology allows for aircraft landings during low visibility conditions, such as fog or at night, which significantly improves the airport’s reliability and operational schedule throughout the year.
Passenger Amenities and Services
What facilities are available for passengers? The new terminal at Prayagraj Airport is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient experience. With a peak hour capacity of 300 passengers, the terminal is spacious and modern. The building incorporates eco-friendly features like fly ash bricks and a water harvesting system.
Recent expansions have further enhanced amenities. The apron area was increased to accommodate more aircraft, and car parking capacity was expanded to hold up to 600 vehicles. These upgrades ensure a smoother journey from arrival to departure.
For traveler convenience, key services and amenities include:
- Check-in counters for airlines like IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Alliance Air.
- Baggage handling services and a lost-and-found facility.
- Basic seating areas and restrooms for passenger comfort.
Airlines and Flight Connectivity
As a bustling domestic airport, Prayagraj offers excellent connectivity to various parts of India. Several prominent airlines operate from here, making it a convenient travel option for residents and visitors alike. Carriers like IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Alliance Air (an Air India subsidiary) provide regular services.
This connectivity has been a significant boost for regional tourism and business, linking Prayagraj directly with major metropolitan centers. Let’s look at the specific domestic and potential international routes available from this airport.
Domestic Flight Destinations
Which airlines operate from Prayagraj Airport? You can fly with several major carriers, including IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Alliance Air. These airlines offer direct, non-stop flights to many of India’s major cities, simplifying travel for both business and leisure passengers.
Direct flights are available to key destinations across the country. Whether you need to travel to the national capital, Delhi, the financial hub of Mumbai, or other major cities like Bangalore and Bhubaneswar, you can find a convenient flight from Prayagraj. This robust domestic network makes the airport a vital link for the region.
Here are some of the popular direct flight routes available:
| Airline | Destinations |
|---|---|
| IndiGo | Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Raipur |
| Akasa Air | Mumbai |
| Alliance Air | Bilaspur, Delhi |
International Routes and Carriers
Currently, Prayagraj Airport operates exclusively as a domestic airport, meaning it does not offer regularly scheduled international flights. The existing infrastructure and services are geared toward travelers flying within India. So, if you’re looking for facilities for international travelers, you won’t find customs and immigration services here at the moment.
However, there have been discussions about upgrading the airport to handle international operations. Given the large number of people from this region of Uttar Pradesh living and working abroad, particularly in the Gulf countries and Southeast Asia, there is a recognized demand for direct international connectivity.
While these plans are still in the proposal stage, the future could see Prayagraj Airport becoming a gateway for international travel. For now, travelers heading to international destinations would need to connect through larger airports in India like Delhi or Mumbai.
Transportation and Access to the City
Getting to and from Prayagraj Airport is straightforward, with several transportation options available to connect you to the city center and beyond. The airport’s location, just 12 km from Prayagraj, ensures that your commute is relatively quick and easy.
Whether you prefer the affordability of public transport or the convenience of a private taxi, you can find a suitable option right at the airport. Let’s explore the different ways you can manage your ground transportation.
Public Transport Options
For those looking for budget-friendly ways to travel from the airport to the city, several public transport options are available. The city of Prayagraj has a network of local transportation that is accessible, though it may require a bit more navigation than a private transfer.
One of the most common modes of transport in Uttar Pradesh is the auto-rickshaw. You can easily find them near the airport premises, and they offer a direct, albeit open-air, ride to your destination within the city. Local buses also run on routes that pass near the airport, providing an even more economical option.
Here are some public transport choices:
- Auto-rickshaws: Readily available for trips to various parts of the city.
- Local Buses: A cost-effective way to travel, though you may need to walk a short distance to the nearest bus stop.
- E-rickshaws: A popular and eco-friendly choice for shorter distances within the city.
Taxi and Private Transfer Services
If you prioritize comfort and convenience, booking a taxi or a private transfer is your best bet. Several taxi services operate at the airport, offering a direct and hassle-free ride to your hotel or residence in the city. You can typically find pre-paid taxi counters inside the terminal or book a cab through ride-hailing apps.
For a seamless experience, you can also pre-book a private transfer service online. This ensures a driver will be waiting for you upon arrival, helping you with your luggage and taking you directly to your destination in Prayagraj. This option is ideal for families or those with a lot of luggage.
Wondering how to book flights online? You can easily book your flights to or from Prayagraj Airport through the official websites of airlines like IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Air India, or by using popular online travel agencies. These platforms allow you to compare fares and schedules to find the best option for your trip.