Aurangabad Airport or Aurangabad Airport (IXU)

About Chikkalthana Airport (IXU)

Chikkalthana Airport serves as the primary aviation gateway to Aurangabad, a historic city in Maharashtra, India. This airport connects the culturally rich region of Marathwada with major Indian cities, facilitating tourism to some of India's most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Located near the famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves, the airport plays a vital role in promoting heritage tourism and supporting the region's economic development. With its strategic location, Aurangabad Airport handles substantial tourist traffic throughout the year, particularly from domestic and international visitors eager to explore the ancient rock-cut caves and historical monuments. The airport serves as an essential gateway for travelers visiting the Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara, and other architectural marvels in the region, making it an important hub for cultural tourism in Maharashtra.

Aurangabad Airport History

Aurangabad Airport has a notable history that reflects the city's growing importance as a tourist destination. The airport was established in the 1970s primarily to serve the region's tourism needs, given the proximity to the world-famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Initially operating with basic infrastructure, the airport handled limited domestic flights. Recognizing the potential for heritage tourism, authorities gradually expanded the facility over the decades. A significant milestone was achieved when the airport received its modern terminal building, improving passenger facilities and operational efficiency.

The airport was officially named Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Airport or Chikkalthana Airport after the locality where it is situated. Over the years, various upgrades were implemented including runway improvements, installation of modern navigation systems, and enhancement of terminal amenities. The airport gained further prominence as Aurangabad emerged as a key destination on India's tourism circuit. Recent developments have focused on expanding capacity, improving passenger comfort, and establishing better connectivity with major cities.

Aurangabad Airport Details - IATA, Address and Pin Code

Official Name: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Airport or Chikalthana Airport

IATA Code: IXU

Address: Aurangabad Airport, Jalna Road, MIDC Industrial Area, Chilkalthana, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra India

Airport Pin Code: 431006

Distance from Aurangabad City Centre: Approximately 5.5kilometers

Phone Number: 0240-2477821

Old Name: Aurangabad Airport

How Many Airports in Aurangabad?

Aurangabad has one airport serving the city and the broader Marathwada region. Chikkalthana Airport is the sole commercial aviation facility in Aurangabad, providing essential air connectivity to this important tourist and historical destination. The airport serves not only Aurangabad city but also caters to visitors from nearby areas who come to explore the region's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Given its strategic importance for heritage tourism, the airport handles diverse passenger traffic including domestic tourists, international visitors, business travelers, and pilgrims visiting religious sites in the region.

How Many Terminals in Aurangabad Airport?

Aurangabad Airport operates with a single terminal building that handles all passenger operations. The terminal provides essential facilities for travelers visiting the region's tourist attractions.

Domestic

The terminal at Aurangabad Airport primarily handles domestic flight operations, connecting Aurangabad with major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and other destinations. The domestic section features check-in counters, security screening areas, waiting lounges, and boarding facilities designed to efficiently process the tourist traffic. The terminal is equipped with basic modern amenities to ensure comfortable travel experiences for visitors exploring Aurangabad's historical sites.

International

Currently, Aurangabad Airport does not operate regular scheduled international flights. The airport focuses on domestic connectivity, though given the significant international tourist interest in the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, there is potential for international operations in the future. Charter flights carrying international tourists occasionally use the airport during peak tourist seasons.

Distance Between Aurangabad Airport Terminals

Since Aurangabad Airport operates with a single terminal building, there is no distance between separate terminals. All passenger services including check-in, security screening, waiting areas, boarding gates, arrival facilities, and baggage claim are housed within one terminal structure. This compact design makes navigation extremely simple and convenient for travelers, many of whom are tourists visiting the region for the first time.

How Many Runways in Aurangabad Airport?

Aurangabad Airport has one operational runway that serves all flight operations. The runway is equipped with necessary lighting and navigation aids to support safe flight operations during various weather conditions. It can handle the aircraft types typically used for regional and metro connectivity routes. The single runway configuration adequately serves the current traffic volume at the airport, efficiently accommodating the domestic flights operating to and from Aurangabad.

Aurangabad Airport Lounges and Facilities

Aurangabad Airport offers essential facilities designed to meet the basic needs of passengers, particularly tourists visiting the region's heritage sites. As a regional airport focused on tourism, it provides functional amenities. Available facilities include:

• Waiting lounge with comfortable seating arrangements
• Check-in counters with baggage handling services
• Security screening areas
• Food and beverage outlets offering refreshments
• Retail shops for travel essentials and local souvenirs
• Tourist information counter with guidance about local attractions
• ATM facilities for banking needs
• Free Wi-Fi connectivity in the terminal
• Medical first aid services
• Restroom facilities
• Car rental services from various providers
• Parking facilities for vehicles
• Assistance for elderly and differently-abled passengers

How to Reach Aurangabad Airport from City Center

By Metro/Subway

Aurangabad does not have a metro or subway system. As a medium-sized city, it relies on road-based transportation. Passengers need to use road transport options to reach the airport.

By Bus

Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation and private bus operators provide bus services connecting various parts of Aurangabad city with the airport. The journey from the city center typically takes around 25 to 35 minutes

By Taxi/Cab

Taxis and app-based cab services including Ola and local taxi operators are available in Aurangabad for transportation to the airport. Pre-paid taxi services can be arranged through hotels or tourist information centers.

By Private Car

Traveling by private car is a convenient option, with the airport located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center. The drive typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. The airport provides parking facilities for those driving to drop off or pick up passengers, or for travelers leaving their vehicles during trips.

Things to Do in Aurangabad Airport

Aurangabad Airport, being a regional facility focused on tourism, offers basic amenities for passengers during their time at the terminal. You can grab refreshments or light meals at the food outlets available, which serve simple snacks and beverages. The airport features small retail shops where you can purchase travel essentials or local souvenirs including replicas of cave art and handicrafts. The tourist information counter provides valuable guidance about visiting the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, including tour options, timings, and entry requirements. You can relax in the waiting lounge while keeping track of flight information on display screens.

Places to Visit Near Aurangabad Airport

Aurangabad and its surrounding region are renowned for extraordinary historical and archaeological treasures. The Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately 30 kilometers from the airport, feature 34 magnificent rock-cut temples representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain faiths, including the spectacular Kailasa Temple. The Ajanta Caves, about 100 kilometers away, comprise 30 ancient Buddhist cave monuments adorned with exquisite paintings and sculptures dating back to the 2nd century BCE. These caves are among the finest examples of ancient Indian art.

Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the Mini Taj Mahal, is located about 12 kilometers from the airport and showcases beautiful Mughal architecture. The Daulatabad Fort, approximately 15 kilometers away, is a formidable hilltop fortress with impressive defense mechanisms and panoramic views. Panchakki, a 17th-century water mill, demonstrates medieval engineering ingenuity. The Aurangabad Caves near the city feature rock-cut Buddhist shrines. Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines, is located near Ellora. The Khuldabad town houses the tomb of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

FAQs About Aurangabad Airport - Chikkalthana Airport

What is the Official Name of Aurangabad Airport?

The official name of Aurangabad Airport is Chikkalthana Airport, named after the locality where it is situated.

What is the IATA Code for Chikkalthana Airport?

The IATA code for Chikkalthana Airport is IXU.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Aurangabad Airport?

Aurangabad Airport has one terminal that serves domestic flights only. Regular scheduled international flights are not currently operational from this airport.

Which Railway Station is Near to Aurangabad Airport?

Aurangabad Railway Station is the nearest railway station, located approximately 10 to 12 kilometers from the airport. It provides connectivity to major cities across India.

Where is Aurangabad Airport Located?

Chikkalthana Airport is located in the Chikkalthana area, approximately 5.5 kilometers from Aurangabad city center in Maharashtra, India.

When Was Aurangabad Airport Built?

Aurangabad Airport was established in the 1970s to serve the region's growing tourism needs, particularly for visitors to the nearby Ajanta and Ellora Caves.

Is Chikkalthana Airport Open 24 Hours?

Aurangabad Airport operates according to its flight schedule and is not a 24-hour facility. Operating hours align with daily flight timings at this regional airport.

How Far is Chikkalthana Airport from Aurangabad City Center?

Chikkalthana Airport is located approximately 5.5 kilometers from Aurangabad city center, taking about 20 to 30 minutes by road depending on traffic conditions.

What Airlines Operate from Chikkalthana Airport?

Several domestic airlines operate flights from Aurangabad Airport including Air India, IndiGo, and other regional carriers, connecting Aurangabad primarily to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and other major Indian cities.

Are There Lounges at Aurangabad Airport?

Aurangabad Airport has basic waiting lounges for passengers but does not currently feature premium airline lounges. The airport provides functional seating areas with essential amenities appropriate for a regional tourism-focused airport.