Agartala Airport or Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport (IXA)

About Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport (IXA)

Agartala Airport, officially known as Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, is the primary civilian airport serving the capital city of Agartala in the state of Tripura, India. Operating under the IATA code IXA, the airport is the second busiest airport in Northeast India after Guwahati. Named after Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya, the last ruling king of the princely state of Tripura, the airport serves as a vital connectivity lifeline for the region. Managed by the Airports Authority of India, it connects Tripura to major Indian cities and plays a crucial role in the economic and social development of the northeastern state.

Agartala Airport History

The origins of Agartala Airport date back to the pre-independence era when the airstrip was developed to support administrative and military requirements in the region. After India's independence and the integration of Tripura into the Indian Union in 1949, the airport was gradually developed for civil aviation purposes. Over subsequent decades, the Airports Authority of India undertook multiple expansion and modernisation projects to upgrade the terminal and runway infrastructure. A significant milestone was the construction of a new integrated terminal building, which was inaugurated in 2018, giving the airport a modern and spacious facility capable of handling a much higher volume of passengers. The airport was formally renamed Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in honour of the visionary king who played a pivotal role in modernising Tripura during his reign.

Agartala Airport Details - IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport
• IATA Code: IXA
• Address: Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport Singerbil Agartala Tripura India
• Airport Pin Code: 799009
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• Distance from Agartala City Centre: Approximately 12 kilometres
• Phone Number: 0381-2342224 or 9436123556
• Old Name: Agartala Airport

How Many Airports in Agartala?

Agartala has one airport, Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, which is the only civilian airport serving the city and the state of Tripura. Given Tripura's location as a landlocked state surrounded by Bangladesh on three sides, air connectivity is especially critical for the region. The airport serves not only Agartala residents but also passengers from across Tripura and neighbouring areas who rely on it as their primary gateway to the rest of India.

How Many Terminals in Agartala Airport?

Agartala Airport operates with a single modern integrated terminal building that was inaugurated in 2018. The terminal handles all passenger operations under one roof efficiently and comfortably.

• Domestic: The terminal manages all domestic flight operations connecting Agartala to major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Guwahati, and Chennai.
• International: The terminal is equipped with international processing facilities. Agartala Airport has international flight connectivity, particularly to Dhaka in Bangladesh, given Tripura's geographic proximity to the neighbouring country.

Distance Between Agartala Airport Terminals

Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport functions with a single unified terminal building that accommodates both domestic and international passenger services within the same structure. There is no inter-terminal distance for passengers to navigate. The compact and well-organised layout of the terminal ensures a smooth and efficient experience for all travellers from check-in through to boarding.

How Many Runways in Agartala Airport?

Agartala Airport has one operational runway that supports all commercial aviation activity. The runway has been upgraded as part of modernisation efforts and is capable of handling narrow-body aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and ATR 72 series, which are the most commonly operated aircraft on routes from Agartala. The runway specifications meet the standards set by the Airports Authority of India for airports of this category in the northeastern region.

Agartala Airport Lounges and Facilities

The modern terminal at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport offers a well-rounded set of facilities designed to make the travel experience comfortable for passengers.

• Lounges: Passenger lounges are available within the terminal. Premium lounge access may be offered through select airline business class tickets and credit card partnerships.
• Food and Beverages: Cafeteria and food outlets are available inside the terminal, offering a variety of snacks, beverages, and meals including local Tripuri cuisine options.
• Retail: Retail shops and newsstands are present within the terminal for last-minute purchases and reading material.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi connectivity is available for passengers throughout the terminal building.
• Parking: Adequate parking space is available for private vehicles and taxis outside the terminal.
• Medical Assistance: First aid and medical support facilities are available on the airport premises for passenger emergencies.

How to Reach Agartala Airport from City Center

Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport is located approximately 12 kilometres from Agartala city centre and is accessible through several modes of local transport.

• By Metro/Subway: Agartala does not have a metro or subway network. Surface transport is the primary means of commuting within the city.
• By Bus: Tripura State Transport Corporation buses operate within the city and on select routes connecting the airport area. However, dedicated direct airport bus services may be limited, and passengers may need to combine bus and taxi travel to reach the terminal conveniently.
• By Taxi/Cab: Local taxis and app-based cab services are the most convenient and popular transport options for reaching the airport. The journey from the city centre typically takes around 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
• By Private Car: Travelling by private car or hotel-arranged vehicle is a comfortable and practical option. Road connectivity to the airport is well-maintained, and parking facilities are available at the airport premises.

Things to Do in Agartala Airport

Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport offers a pleasant and modern pre-flight environment. Passengers can enjoy a meal or refreshments at the in-terminal food outlets, browse retail shops for travel essentials or local products, and stay connected with free Wi-Fi. The well-designed terminal reflects the cultural heritage of Tripura through its architecture and decor, giving travellers a glimpse of the state's rich traditions even before they step out into the city. The lounge facilities provide a relaxed space for premium passengers to unwind before their departure.

Places to Visit Near Agartala Airport

Agartala and the surrounding region of Tripura are home to several historically and culturally significant attractions worth exploring.

• Ujjayanta Palace: A magnificent royal palace built in 1901 that now serves as the Tripura State Museum, located in the heart of Agartala city.
• Neermahal: A stunning water palace situated in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake, about 53 kilometres from Agartala, often referred to as the Lake Palace of the East.
• Sipahijala Wildlife Sanctuary: A scenic sanctuary known for its clouded leopards, spectacled monkeys, and diverse bird species, located about 25 kilometres from the city.
• Tripura Sundari Temple: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Hinduism, this revered temple is located in Udaipur, about 55 kilometres from Agartala.
• Jagannath Temple: A prominent and beautifully constructed temple in Agartala city, attracting devotees and tourists throughout the year.

FAQs About Agartala Airport - Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport

What is the Official Name of Agartala Airport?

The official name of Agartala Airport is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, named after Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya, the last ruling king of the princely state of Tripura and a visionary leader known for his contributions to the modernisation of the region.

What is the IATA Code for Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport?

The IATA code for Agartala Airport is IXA.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Agartala Airport?

Agartala Airport has a single integrated terminal that handles both domestic and international flight operations, with dedicated processing areas for each category of passengers within the same building.

Which Railway Station is Near to Agartala Airport?

Agartala Railway Station is the nearest major railway station to the airport, located within the city centre approximately 12 to 14 kilometres from the terminal. It is connected to the broader Indian railway network through the Northeast Frontier Railway zone.

Where is Agartala Airport Located?

Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport is located in Singarbil, Agartala, Tripura, approximately 12 kilometres from the Agartala city centre.

When Was Agartala Airport Built?

Agartala Airport has been operational since the pre-independence era. The modern integrated terminal building was inaugurated in 2018, significantly upgrading the airport's capacity and passenger experience.

Is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport Open 24 Hours?

Agartala Airport is not a 24-hour airport. It operates in line with scheduled flight timings. Passengers are advised to check their specific flight schedules and plan their arrival at the airport accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.

How Far is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport from Agartala City Center?

Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport is approximately 12 kilometres from Agartala city centre. The drive from the city to the airport typically takes around 25 to 35 minutes by taxi or private vehicle under normal traffic conditions.

What Airlines Operate from Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport?

Airlines including IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and GoFirst have operated flights from Agartala Airport, connecting the city to destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Guwahati, and Dhaka. Flight schedules are subject to change and passengers are advised to check current listings before booking.

Are There Lounges at Agartala Airport?

Agartala Airport offers passenger lounge facilities within its modern terminal. Premium lounge access may be available through select airline business class tickets or credit card partnerships. Passengers are advised to confirm lounge availability with their respective airline or bank before travel.