Imphal International Airport or Bir Tikendrajit International Airport (IMF)

About Bir Tikendrajit International Airport (IMF)

Imphal International Airport, officially known as Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, is the primary aviation gateway serving the city of Imphal. Airport is second largest in Northeast India and serves as a vital connectivity lifeline for the landlocked state of Manipur. Named after the legendary Manipuri freedom fighter and prince Bir Tikendrajit Singh, the airport is managed by the Airports Authority of India and connects Imphal to major domestic cities as well as international destinations in Southeast Asia, reflecting Manipur's strategic location as a gateway to the Act East Policy corridor.

Imphal Airport History

The history of Imphal Airport is deeply rooted in World War II, when the airfield played a critical role during the historic Battle of Imphal in 1944. The airfield was used extensively by Allied forces during the war and was a key strategic asset in the campaign against Japanese forces in Southeast Asia. After independence, the airport was gradually developed for civil aviation purposes under the management of the Airports Authority of India. Over subsequent decades, the terminal and runway were upgraded multiple times to accommodate growing passenger demand driven by tourism, business, and the large Manipuri diaspora. The airport was granted international status and renamed Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, honouring the brave Manipuri prince who fought against British annexation in 1891.

Imphal Airport Details - IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
• IATA Code: IMF
• Address: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport Imphal Manipur India
• Airport Pin Code: 795140
• Distance from Imphal City Centre: Approximately 8 kilometres
• Phone Number: 91-385-2455069
• Old Name: Imphal Airport / Tulihal Airport

How Many Airports in Imphal?

Imphal has one airport, Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, which is the only civilian airport serving the city and the state of Manipur. Given Manipur's location as a landlocked state sharing borders with Myanmar, the airport is of immense strategic and economic importance for the region. It serves not only Imphal residents but also passengers from across Manipur and neighbouring states who use it as their primary air travel gateway to the rest of India and Southeast Asia.

How Many Terminals in Imphal Airport?

Imphal Airport operates with a single integrated terminal building that handles both domestic and international passenger operations under one roof.

• Domestic: The terminal manages domestic flights connecting Imphal to major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Guwahati, and Chennai through scheduled airline services.
• International: The terminal is equipped with international processing facilities including immigration, customs, and duty-free retail, connecting Imphal to international destinations including Mandalay in Myanmar, reflecting Manipur's role as a gateway to Southeast Asia under India's Act East Policy.

Distance Between Imphal Airport Terminals

Bir Tikendrajit International Airport operates from a single unified terminal building accommodating both domestic and international passenger services within the same structure. There is no inter-terminal distance for passengers to navigate, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for all travellers from check-in through to boarding regardless of their destination.

How Many Runways in Imphal Airport?

Imphal Airport has one operational runway supporting both domestic and international commercial aviation. The runway has been upgraded over the years to accommodate modern narrow-body and select wide-body aircraft. The runway length and specifications support aircraft including the Airbus A320 family and Boeing 737 series, which are commonly operated on routes to and from Imphal.

Imphal Airport Lounges and Facilities

Bir Tikendrajit International Airport offers a well-rounded set of passenger facilities suited to its status as an international airport in Northeast India.

• Lounges: Passenger lounges are available within the terminal, accessible through select airline business class tickets and credit card partnerships. Passengers are advised to confirm lounge availability with their airline before travel.
• Food and Beverages: Restaurants, cafes, and refreshment counters are available within the terminal offering Indian cuisine, local Manipuri food options, and snacks for passengers.
• Retail and Duty-Free: Duty-free shopping is available in the international section, along with retail outlets offering local Manipuri handicrafts, handloom products, and travel essentials throughout the terminal.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi connectivity is available for all passengers within the terminal building.
• Parking: Adequate parking facilities are 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 health emergencies.

How to Reach Imphal Airport from City Center

Bir Tikendrajit International Airport is located approximately 8 kilometres from Imphal city centre, accessible through several local transport options.

• By Metro/Subway: Imphal does not have a metro or subway network. Surface transport is the primary mode of travel within the city.
• By Bus: Manipur State Transport buses operate within the city. Dedicated direct airport bus services are limited and passengers typically rely on taxis or private vehicles for airport connectivity.
• By Taxi/Cab: Local taxis and app-based cabs are the most convenient transport options for reaching the airport. The journey from Imphal city centre typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
• By Private Car: Travelling by private car or hotel-arranged vehicle is a comfortable and practical choice. Road connectivity to the airport is well-maintained and parking facilities are available at the premises.

Things to Do in Imphal Airport

Bir Tikendrajit International Airport offers a pleasant pre-flight experience. Passengers can browse duty-free shops in the international section, explore retail outlets featuring Manipuri handloom and handicraft products, and enjoy local and Indian cuisine at the terminal's dining outlets. Free Wi-Fi keeps travellers connected throughout their time at the airport. The terminal also showcases elements of Manipuri culture and heritage through its decor, giving visitors a meaningful introduction to the unique traditions of the state before they even step out into the city.

Places to Visit Near Imphal Airport

Imphal and the surrounding region of Manipur offer a rich blend of cultural heritage, wartime history, natural beauty, and vibrant local traditions.

• Kangla Fort: A historically and culturally significant fort in the heart of Imphal, serving as the ancient seat of power for Manipuri kings and a revered site for the people of Manipur.
• Ima Keithel Market: The famous all-women market in Imphal, one of the largest of its kind in Asia, offering local produce, handloom textiles, and traditional Manipuri products.
• Loktak Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, known for its floating phumdis and the unique Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world's only floating national park.
• Imphal War Cemetery: A beautifully maintained Commonwealth War Graves cemetery honouring the soldiers who fell during the historic Battle of Imphal in World War II.
• Shree Shree Govindajee Temple: A prominent Vaishnav temple in Imphal patronised by the Manipuri royal family, attracting devotees and tourists throughout the year.

FAQs About Imphal Airport - Bir Tikendrajit International Airport

What is the Official Name of Imphal Airport?

The official name of Imphal Airport is Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, named after the brave Manipuri prince and freedom fighter Bir Tikendrajit Singh who resisted British annexation of Manipur in 1891.

What is the IATA Code for Bir Tikendrajit International Airport?

The IATA code for Imphal Airport is IMF.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Imphal Airport?

Bir Tikendrajit International Airport has a single integrated terminal that handles both domestic and international flight operations, with dedicated processing sections for each category within the same building.

Which Railway Station is Near to Imphal Airport?

Imphal does not currently have a railway station, as Manipur's rail connectivity is still under development. The nearest major railway station is Jiribam Railway Station, which is connected to the broader Indian rail network. The ongoing rail line extension to Imphal is expected to transform connectivity for the state in the coming years.

Where is Imphal Airport Located?

Bir Tikendrajit International Airport is located in Tulihal, Imphal, Manipur, approximately 8 kilometres from the Imphal city centre.

When Was Imphal Airport Built?

The airfield at Imphal dates back to World War II, where it played a critical role during the Battle of Imphal in 1944. It was subsequently developed for civil aviation after independence, with multiple upgrades over the decades. The airport was granted international status and renamed Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in recognition of its growing strategic importance.

Is Bir Tikendrajit International Airport Open 24 Hours?

Imphal Airport is not a 24-hour airport. It operates in accordance 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 Bir Tikendrajit International Airport from Imphal City Center?

The airport is approximately 8 kilometres from Imphal city centre. The drive typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes by taxi or private vehicle under normal traffic conditions.

What Airlines Operate from Bir Tikendrajit International Airport?

Airlines including IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and GoFirst have operated flights from Imphal Airport, connecting the city to destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Guwahati, and international destinations including Mandalay in Myanmar. Passengers are advised to check current schedules before booking.

Are There Lounges at Imphal Airport?

Bir Tikendrajit International Airport offers passenger lounge facilities within its terminal. Lounge access may be available through select airline business class tickets and credit card partnerships. Passengers are advised to confirm lounge availability with their airline or bank before travel.