Kolkata International Airport or Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)

About Kolkata International Airport (CCU)

Kolkata International Airport, officially known as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, is the primary commercial airport serving Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, India. Operating under the IATA code CCU and managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), it is one of the busiest airports in the country and the largest in eastern India. The airport connects Kolkata with numerous domestic and international destinations, serving millions of passengers annually and acting as a key aviation hub for the entire northeastern and eastern region of India.

Kolkata Airport History

Kolkata Airport has one of the richest aviation histories in India. Aviation activity in Dum Dum began as early as 1924, making it among the oldest airports in Asia. During World War II, it served as a strategic Allied military base. After independence, the airport was progressively developed for civilian use. In 1995, it was renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in honor of the legendary Bengali freedom fighter. A landmark moment came in 2013 when a new integrated terminal was inaugurated, dramatically enhancing passenger capacity, facilities, and the overall travel experience.

Kolkata Airport Details - IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport
• IATA Code: CCU
• Address: NSCBI Airport Jessore Road Dum Dum Kolkata West Bengal India
• Airport Pin Code: 700052
• Distance from Kolkata City Centre: Approximately 17 km
• Phone Number: 033-2819 1002/2819 4310 or 9674721815/16
• Old Name: Dum Dum Airport

How Many Airports in Kolkata?

Kolkata has one operational commercial airport, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), located in Dum Dum. There is no other commercial airport serving the Kolkata metropolitan area. This single airport handles all domestic and international passenger and cargo traffic for the city and also serves as a convenient transit point for travelers from neighboring states including Odisha, Bihar, and the northeastern states.

How Many Terminals in Kolkata Airport?

Kolkata Airport operates from a single modern integrated terminal that handles both domestic and international operations under one roof.

• Domestic Terminal: A dedicated domestic section within the integrated terminal handles all domestic departures and arrivals, with multiple check-in counters, baggage carousels, and comfortable waiting areas.
• International Terminal: The international section of the same terminal building is equipped with immigration counters, customs clearance facilities, and international departure gates. The older Terminal 1 is no longer in regular use since the new integrated terminal became operational in 2013.

Distance Between Kolkata Airport Terminals

Kolkata Airport operates from a single integrated terminal, so domestic and international passengers use the same building. Both zones are located within the same structure, eliminating the need to travel between separate terminals. This is particularly convenient for connecting passengers moving between domestic and international flights, saving both time and effort.

How Many Runways in Kolkata Airport?

Kolkata Airport has two operational runways capable of handling wide-body aircraft including the Boeing 777 and Airbus A330. The dual runway setup ensures efficient management of high air traffic volumes, reducing delays during peak hours and enabling simultaneous arrivals and departures throughout the day and night.

Kolkata Airport Lounges and Facilities

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport offers a comprehensive range of facilities for all categories of travelers.

• Airport Lounges: Premium lounges including the Air India Maharaja Lounge and IndiGo 6E Lounge are available, offering meals, beverages, Wi-Fi, and shower facilities. Several lounges are also accessible via credit card partnerships.
• Retail and Shopping: Duty-free shops, retail stores, bookstores, and souvenir outlets are spread across the terminal.
• Food and Beverages: Multiple restaurants, cafes, and fast food options serve everything from authentic Bengali snacks to international cuisines.
• Other Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, a medical center, children's play areas, currency exchange counters, ATMs, and multi-level parking are all available within the airport premises.

How to Reach Kolkata Airport from City Center

Kolkata Airport is well connected to the city through multiple transport options.

• By Metro/Subway: The Kolkata Metro's Airport Line connects the airport directly to the city's metro network, offering a fast, affordable, and traffic-free travel option.
• By Bus: WBTC buses operate between the airport and key city destinations including Esplanade and Howrah, making it a budget-friendly choice for passengers.
• By Taxi/Cab: Pre-paid taxis, Ola, and Uber are readily available outside the arrivals hall. The ride to central Kolkata typically takes 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic.
• By Private Car: The airport has well-marked access roads and ample parking for those arriving by personal vehicle.

Things to Do in Kolkata Airport

Kolkata Airport keeps passengers well engaged during layovers. You can browse duty-free stores for Indian handicrafts, electronics, and perfumes, or sample authentic Bengali sweets and snacks at the food outlets. The terminal also features cultural art installations that reflect Bengal's artistic heritage, giving even a short transit a touch of local character. Premium lounge access adds a comfortable dimension for eligible travelers looking to relax before their flight.

Places to Visit Near Kolkata Airport

Kolkata is a city full of history, culture, and culinary delights. Some must-visit places near the airport and across the city include:

• Dakshineswar Kali Temple: A revered temple close to the airport on the banks of the Hooghly River, drawing thousands of devotees every day.
• Belur Math: The headquarters of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, known for its beautiful fusion of Hindu, Christian, and Islamic architectural styles.
• Victoria Memorial: An iconic marble monument in the heart of Kolkata and one of India's most visited landmarks.
• Howrah Bridge: The legendary cantilever bridge over the Hooghly River and a globally recognized symbol of Kolkata.
• Indian Museum: One of the oldest and largest museums in Asia, home to a vast collection of art, artifacts, and fossils.

FAQs About Kolkata Airport - Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)

What is the Official Name of Kolkata Airport?

The official name is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, renamed in 1995 in honor of the iconic Bengali freedom fighter.

What is the IATA Code for Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport?

The IATA code for Kolkata Airport is CCU.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Kolkata Airport?

Both domestic and international flights are handled within a single integrated terminal. Separate sections within the terminal are designated for each type of operation.

Which Railway Station is Near to Kolkata Airport?

Dum Dum Junction Railway Station is the nearest railway station, located approximately 3 to 4 km from the airport. Howrah and Sealdah are the two main railway terminals in the city, both accessible via road and metro.

Where is Kolkata Airport Located?

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is located in Dum Dum, Kolkata, West Bengal, approximately 17 km from the city center.

When Was Kolkata Airport Built?

Kolkata Airport's aviation history dates back to 1924. The current modern integrated terminal was inaugurated in 2013 after major redevelopment.

Is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport Open 24 Hours?

Yes, Kolkata Airport operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, handling both domestic and international flights at all hours.

How Far is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport from Kolkata City Center?

The airport is approximately 17 km from Kolkata city center. Travel by road takes around 45 minutes to an hour, while the metro offers a faster and more predictable journey.

What Airlines Operate from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport?

Airlines operating from Kolkata Airport include Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and several international carriers such as Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Emirates, connecting the city to destinations across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Are There Lounges at Kolkata Airport?

Yes, Kolkata Airport has multiple lounges including the Air India Maharaja Lounge and IndiGo 6E Lounge, along with other lounges accessible via credit card memberships. These offer food, beverages, Wi-Fi, and shower facilities.