Key Highlights
Planning a trip to Kerala’s beautiful northern coast? Here’s what you need to know about flying into Kozhikode International Airport:
- Kozhikode International Airport, also known as Karipur Airport, serves the historic Malabar region.
- The airport gained international status in 2006, featuring a modern international terminal.
- It offers excellent connectivity to major cities in the Middle East and domestic hubs.
- The airport is distinguished by its unique tabletop runway.
- Air India Express uses the Calicut International Airport as a primary operating base.
Overview of Kozhikode International Airport
Welcome to Kozhikode Calicut International Airport (CCJ), your gateway to the vibrant city of Kozhikode and the scenic Malabar coast. As the third busiest airport in Kerala, it plays a vital role in connecting the region with the world. Opened in 1988, this international airport has seen significant development over the years, thanks in part to the efforts of the Gulf Malayali community and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Today, the airport stands as a key travel hub, managed efficiently by the AAI. The development of the airport continues to be a priority, ensuring it meets the growing demands of both domestic and international travelers. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, the airport provides a smooth start to your journey in Kerala. In the sections below, we will cover its location, key facts, and flight information.
Location and Accessibility
Wondering how to get to and from the airport? Kozhikode International Airport is conveniently situated in Karipur in the Malappuram district, about 28 km (17 miles) from the heart of Kozhikode city. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible for travelers heading to various destinations across the region, including Wayanad and Palakkad.
Getting to your final destination is straightforward. Pre-paid taxi services are readily available right at the airport, offering a hassle-free ride. You can also use popular ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola Cabs for journeys into Kozhikode or other nearby towns. This ensures you have multiple options to suit your budget and convenience.
For more budget-conscious travelers, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates FlyBus services to Kozhikode. While these are limited, you can also take a short auto-rickshaw ride to Airport Junction – Kondotty (about 2.8 km away) to catch regular buses. The airport’s proximity to National Highways 966 and 66 provides excellent road connectivity, making your travel seamless.
Airport Code and Key Facts
Every airport has a unique identifier, and for Kozhikode Calicut International Airport, the IATA code is CCJ. When booking your flights to Calicut, you will use this code to identify your destination. This code is recognized globally by airlines, travel agents, and booking systems, ensuring your travel plans are accurate.
The airport officially opened its doors on April 13, 1988, after a long campaign for its establishment. It marked a significant milestone for the region’s connectivity. A pivotal moment in its history was on February 2, 2006, when it received international airport status. This upgrade paved the way for enhanced infrastructure and the capacity to handle flights from around the world.
Operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the airport has undergone continuous development to serve the bustling city of Kozhikode and its surroundings. It stands as a testament to community effort and strategic planning, making it a crucial link for the people of the Malabar region.
Airlines and Flight Destinations
Kozhikode Airport boasts a robust network of airlines, offering excellent connectivity to both domestic and international destinations. Major carriers like Air India Express, IndiGo, Air Arabia, and Air India provide numerous direct flights, making it a convenient hub for travelers. The airport serves as an important operating base for Air India Express, highlighting its significance in the region’s air travel network.
The continuous development of the airport has expanded its international routes, particularly to the Middle East. Whether you’re flying to a major Indian city or a global destination, you’ll find plenty of options. The following sections will provide more details on the specific routes and the major airlines you can fly with from Kozhikode.
Direct and International Routes
Yes, Kozhikode Airport absolutely supports international flights! The international terminal is a bustling hub for travelers heading to various global destinations, especially in the Gulf region. You can catch direct flights to cities like Abu Dhabi (AUH), Dubai, Sharjah, Doha, Muscat, and Jeddah (JED). This makes it an incredibly convenient airport for the large number of expatriates from the Malabar region working in the Middle East.
In addition to its strong international presence, the airport offers fantastic domestic connectivity. You can easily fly to major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Airlines like Air India Express and IndiGo operate frequent services on these routes, ensuring you can connect to the rest of India with ease.
Here is a quick look at some of the popular direct flight routes available from Kozhikode to give you an idea of the airport’s reach.
| Destination | Airline(s) |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi (AUH) | Air India Express, Etihad Airways, IndiGo, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi |
| Dubai (DXB) | Air India Express, flydubai, IndiGo, SpiceJet |
| Mumbai (BOM) | IndiGo, SpiceJet, Akasa Air |
| Delhi (DEL) | IndiGo |
| Jeddah (JED) | Air India Express, IndiGo, SpiceJet |
Major Carriers Operating at Kozhikode
A diverse range of airlines operates from Kozhikode, providing you with plenty of choices for your travel needs. These carriers connect the Malabar region to numerous key destinations both within India and abroad. The presence of these airlines is a direct result of the airport’s ongoing development and its importance as a regional hub.
The airport is particularly vital for low-cost carriers, which offer affordable and frequent connections. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a family vacation, you’ll find an airline that fits your schedule and budget. The Airports Authority of India works closely with these carriers to ensure smooth operations.
Here are some of the major airlines you can fly with from Kozhikode:
- Air India Express: As its primary operating base, this airline offers extensive connectivity to the Middle East and several domestic locations.
- IndiGo: A major player in the domestic market, IndiGo also provides international flights to destinations like Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
- Air Arabia: This carrier connects Kozhikode with Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, offering more travel options to the UAE.
- Etihad Airways: Provides direct service to Abu Dhabi, linking passengers to its global network.
Passenger Services and Airport Facilities
The Airports Authority of India ensures that your experience at Karipur Airport is comfortable and convenient. The Calicut Airport is equipped with a range of passenger services and facilities designed to meet the needs of modern travelers. From the moment you arrive, you will find everything you need for a smooth journey.
The airport features separate domestic and international terminals, each providing essential amenities. You’ll have access to efficient baggage services, comfortable waiting areas, and helpful staff. The ongoing development of the airport aims to further enhance these facilities, ensuring a world-class travel experience. The following sections will outline the specific food, shopping, and assistance services available.
Lounges, Food Options, and Shopping
While the compiled information does not specify dedicated airline lounges, Calicut International Airport provides comfortable seating areas for all passengers to relax before their flights. For your dining needs, you’ll find several food options available. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a light refreshment, the airport has you covered. Snack bars and T/R stalls offer a variety of choices to satisfy your hunger.
Shopping opportunities are also available, allowing you to pick up any last-minute essentials or souvenirs. You can find prerequisite items and reading materials to keep you occupied during your flight. For international travelers, the airport offers duty-free shopping, where you can purchase a range of products at competitive prices.
Here are some of the key amenities you can find:
- Snack Bar and Light Refreshment stalls
- Duty-Free Shopping in the international terminal
- Shops selling magazines, newspapers, and other travel items
- Baggage wrapping services for extra security
Passenger Assistance, Parking, and Safety Measures
Your safety and comfort are top priorities at Kozhikode Airport. A range of passenger assistance services is available to ensure a smooth travel experience. This includes efficient baggage services at both terminals and baggage wrapping facilities for added security. If you need special assistance, it’s always best to inform your airline in advance.
Parking facilities are available at the airport for those driving in. This makes it convenient to leave your vehicle while you travel. In terms of safety measures, the airport is operated by the Airports Authority of India, which adheres to strict national safety and security protocols. Following incidents, significant attention has been given to enhancing runway safety, including land acquisition for extending the runway end safety area (RESA).
Key services and measures include:
- Baggage Services: Advanced baggage handling and wrapping are available.
- Parking: On-site parking for travelers.
- Safety: The airport is working on extending its runway safety area to meet regulatory standards.
- Security: Operations are managed by the AAI with security provided by the CISF.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I travel between Kozhikode city center and the airport?
Traveling the 28 km between Kozhikode city and the airport is easy. The most convenient option is to hire a pre-paid taxi or use a ride-sharing app, which takes about 40-60 minutes. For a more economical choice, you can take a bus from the nearby Airport Junction in Kondotty.
What amenities are available for travelers?
Travelers at the airport can enjoy several amenities, including various food options like snack bars. The international terminal features duty-free shopping for a great deal on products. You’ll also find baggage wrapping services, shops for travel essentials, and comfortable waiting areas for a pleasant journey.
Where can I find official contact details for Kozhikode Airport?
For official contact details and the latest information on the Kozhikode International Airport, you should visit the official website of the Airports Authority of India (AAI). You can also reach the Airport Director’s office via email at apd_calicut@aai.aero for specific inquiries regarding the Calicut Airport.