Kannur International Airport (CNN)

About Kannur International Airport (CNN)

Kannur International Airport serves as a modern aviation gateway to the Malabar region of northern Kerala. The airport is one of India's newest international airports, built to cater to the growing travel needs of this culturally rich coastal area. This facility handles both domestic and international flights, primarily serving the large expatriate population working in the Middle East, as well as tourists exploring the region's pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and unique Theyyam culture.

As the fourth international airport in Kerala, Kannur Airport has significantly improved connectivity for the districts of Kannur, Kasaragod, Wayanad, and parts of Kozhikode and Dakshina Kannada in Karnataka. The facility was developed with modern architecture and infrastructure, featuring sustainable design elements and passenger-friendly amenities.

Kannur Airport History

Kannur Airport represents a relatively recent success story in Indian aviation infrastructure development. Unlike many airports that evolved from military airbases, this facility was purpose-built as a greenfield international airport to meet the specific needs of northern Kerala.

Construction of Kannur Airport began in the early 2010s, overcoming numerous geographical and engineering challenges. The airport is built on a tabletop plateau with a unique terrain that required extensive earth-leveling work. The project was developed through a public-private partnership model, showcasing collaborative infrastructure development. Kannur International Airport officially commenced operations in December 2018, marking a new era for aviation in northern Kerala. The facility was designed with future expansion in mind, incorporating modern technology and sustainable practices.

Kannur Airport Details - IATA, Address and Pin Code

Official Name: Kannur International Airport

IATA Code: CNN

Address: Kannur International Airport Limited Kannur International Airport P O Mattannur Kannur Kerala India

Airport Pin Code: 670708

Distance from Kannur City Centre: Approximately 25 kilometers

Phone Number: 0490 248 1000

Old Name: This is a newly built facility with no previous name

How Many Airports in Kannur?

Kannur has one international airport serving all commercial aviation needs for the region. Kannur Airport is the sole facility handling scheduled passenger flights for northern Kerala and neighboring areas. As a purpose-built modern airport, it exclusively manages civilian operations without sharing infrastructure with military facilities. This dedicated aviation hub efficiently serves the diverse passenger base including expatriate workers traveling to Gulf countries, domestic travelers, tourists exploring the Malabar coast, and business professionals.

How Many Terminals in Kannur Airport?

Kannur Airport operates with an integrated terminal building designed to handle both domestic and international passenger traffic efficiently. The terminal has been thoughtfully organized into distinct functional areas:

Domestic Terminal

The domestic section at Kannur International Airport manages flights connecting to major Indian cities including Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, and other important destinations. This section features modern check-in facilities, advanced security screening, comfortable waiting lounges, and well-designed boarding gates.

International Terminal

The international section at the airport primarily serves flights to Middle Eastern destinations including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Doha, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Sharjah. This area is equipped with comprehensive customs and immigration facilities, international departure lounges, duty-free shopping, and arrival halls designed for efficient passenger processing.

Distance Between Kannur Airport Terminals

Since Kannur Airport features an integrated terminal building, the distance between domestic and international sections is minimal and conveniently walkable. Passengers can easily move between the two functional areas within the same modern terminal complex in just a few minutes. This efficient layout eliminates the need for shuttle services and simplifies the passenger experience.

How Many Runways in Kannur Airport?

Kannur International Airport operates with one primary runway designed to international standards. The runway at the airport was engineered to accommodate various aircraft types including wide-body jets used on international routes and narrow-body aircraft serving domestic destinations. Built on a tabletop plateau, the runway required sophisticated engineering and extensive earth-leveling during construction. The facility is equipped with modern navigation aids, precision approach systems, and advanced lighting to ensure safe operations in all weather conditions. The runway length and specifications allow the airport to handle larger aircraft, supporting future growth in passenger traffic and route expansion.

Kannur Airport Lounges and Facilities

Kannur Airport offers modern lounge facilities for passengers seeking enhanced comfort before their flights. Lounges are accessible to business class passengers, premium frequent flyer members, and travelers who purchase lounge access. These contemporary spaces provide air-conditioned comfort, complimentary food and beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, charging stations, and entertainment options.

Additional facilities at Kannur International Airport include duty-free shopping offering liquor, perfumes, electronics, and chocolates for international passengers. Retail outlets sell Kerala specialties including spices, coffee, tea, cashew nuts, handicrafts, and traditional textiles. Dining options serve authentic Kerala cuisine including seafood specialties, vegetarian meals, and standard airport fare. The airport provides banking services, ATMs, currency exchange, medical facilities, prayer rooms, and comprehensive assistance for passengers with special needs. Tourist information counters help visitors with details about local attractions, Theyyam performances, and transportation arrangements. The facility features ample parking and car rental services for independent travelers.

How to Reach Kannur Airport from City Center

By Metro/Subway

Kannur does not currently have a metro or subway system. The city and surrounding region rely on road-based transportation for connectivity between the airport and various urban areas.

By Bus

Kerala State Road Transport Corporation operates regular bus services connecting the Kannur Airport with the city center and surrounding towns. These economical options provide affordable transportation for budget-conscious travelers. Private shuttle services and many hotels also offer bus transportation to and from the airport for their guests.

By Taxi/Cab

Prepaid taxi services are readily available at Kannur International Airport, offering fixed-rate transportation to various destinations across Kannur and neighboring districts. App-based cab services like Ola and Uber operate extensively in the region, providing convenient booking through smartphones. The journey from the airport to the city center typically takes 35 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

By Private Car

Travelers can reach the airport by private vehicle using well-maintained roads connecting to National Highway 66. The airport offers extensive parking facilities with options for both short-term and long-term stays. Many hotels, resorts, and tour operators provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off services for their guests.

Things to Do in Kannur Airport

While waiting at Kannur Airport, passengers can explore duty-free shopping for tax-free products if traveling internationally. Specialty shops offer authentic Kerala spices, Malabar coffee, handloom textiles, and traditional handicrafts as souvenirs. Dining outlets serve delicious Kerala cuisine including fish curry, appam, puttu, and traditional vegetarian meals alongside standard options. Free Wi-Fi throughout the modern terminal allows travelers to stay connected and productive. Comfortable seating areas with ample charging points provide spaces for relaxation before flights. The terminal's contemporary architecture and clean facilities reflect Kerala's reputation for quality infrastructure. The airport's relatively new status means all amenities are modern and well-maintained.

Places to Visit Near Kannur Airport

Kannur Airport provides convenient access to numerous attractions in the Malabar region. Kannur city, approximately 25 kilometers away, offers beautiful beaches like Payyambalam and Meenkunnu, historic St. Angelo Fort built by the Portuguese, and opportunities to witness traditional Theyyam performances. The Arakkal Museum, showcasing Kerala's only Muslim royal family heritage, is worth visiting. Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach, one of Asia's longest drive-in beaches, lies about 35 kilometers from the airport. The hill station of Wayanad with its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries is accessible within two hours. Parassinikkadavu Snake Park and the ancient Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple are nearby attractions. For beach lovers, the pristine beaches of Kasaragod district are within easy reach from the airport.

FAQs About Kannur Airport - Kannur International Airport

What is the Official Name of Kannur Airport?

The official name is Kannur International Airport, serving the Malabar region of northern Kerala.

What is the IATA Code for Kannur International Airport?

The IATA code for Kannur Airport is CNN.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Kannur Airport?

Kannur Airport has an integrated terminal building with separate functional sections for domestic and international flights within the same modern complex.

Which Railway Station is Near to Kannur Airport?

Kannur Railway Station is the nearest major rail hub, located approximately 25 to 28 kilometers from the airport.

Where is Kannur Airport Located?

Kannur International Airport is located in Mattannur, approximately 25 kilometers from Kannur city center in Kerala, India.

When Was Kannur Airport Built?

Kannur Airport was built as a greenfield project and commenced operations in December 2018, making it one of India's newest international airports.

Is Kannur International Airport Open 24 Hours?

Kannur International Airport operates according to scheduled flight timings and accommodates early morning and late-night flights as per airline schedules.

How Far is Kannur International Airport from Kannur City Center?

Kannur Airport is located approximately 25 kilometers from the city center, with travel time ranging from 35 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

What Airlines Operate from Kannur International Airport?

Major airlines operating from Kannur Airport include IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, and GoAir for domestic routes, along with various carriers serving Middle Eastern destinations.

Are There Lounges at Kannur Airport?

Yes, Kannur Airport offers modern lounge facilities for eligible passengers including business class travelers and those with lounge membership programs, providing comfortable amenities and refreshments.