Silchar Airport or Kumbhirgram Airport (IXS)

About Silchar Airport (IXS)

Silchar Airport, officially known as Kumbhirgram Airport, serves as the primary aviation gateway to the Barak Valley region of southern Assam. Located in Kumbhirgram, approximately 22 kilometers from Silchar city center, this airport provides crucial air connectivity to one of the most geographically isolated regions in Northeast India. The airport plays a vital role in connecting Silchar to major Indian cities, facilitating not only tourism and business travel but also serving as a lifeline for medical emergencies and essential supplies during the monsoon season when road connectivity becomes challenging. Named after the Kumbhir River that flows nearby, the airport serves the entire Barak Valley, including the districts of Cachar, Karimganj, and Hailakandi. With its strategic importance for the region's development and connectivity, Silchar Airport continues to undergo improvements to meet growing passenger demands and enhance operational efficiency.

Silchar Airport History

Silchar Airport has a significant history tied to the development of air connectivity in Northeast India. The airport was established during World War II as a military airbase to support Allied operations in the region. After independence, recognizing the strategic importance and geographical isolation of the Barak Valley, the facility was converted for civilian use to provide essential air connectivity to this landlocked region.

The airport's importance grew significantly during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War when it served as a crucial logistics hub. Over the decades, the airport has undergone several phases of expansion and modernization. In the early 2000s, major infrastructure upgrades were undertaken, including runway extension, terminal building renovation, and installation of modern navigation equipment. The Airports Authority of India has continued to invest in improving facilities to handle increasing passenger traffic and larger aircraft. The airport has been particularly significant during natural disasters and floods, which are common in the region, serving as a critical link for relief operations and emergency evacuations. In recent years, efforts have focused on expanding connectivity under the UDAN scheme, which aims to make air travel affordable and accessible to smaller cities and towns across India.

Silchar Airport Details: IATA, Address and Pin Code

Official Name: Kumbhirgram Airport

IATA Code: IXS

Address: Silchar Airport Kumbhirgram Silchar Assam India

Airport Pin Code: 788109

Distance from Silchar City Centre: Approximately 22 kilometers

Phone Number: 91-3841-282293

Old Name: Originally operated as a military airbase during World War II

How Many Airports in Silchar?

Silchar has one operational civilian airport, which is Kumbhirgram Airport. This is the only commercial airport serving the city and the entire Barak Valley region. All scheduled passenger flights operate from this facility. The airport is essential for the region's connectivity, especially during the monsoon season when road and rail links can be disrupted by flooding. The nearest alternative airports are Lengpui Airport in Mizoram, approximately 180 kilometers away, and Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, located about 330 kilometers to the north, which offers more extensive domestic and international connectivity.

How Many Terminals in Silchar Airport?

Silchar Airport operates with a single terminal building that handles all passenger operations. The terminal has been modernized to provide improved facilities for travelers.

Domestic: The terminal serves domestic flights connecting Silchar to major Indian cities including Kolkata, Guwahati, Imphal, Agartala, and Dibrugarh. It includes check-in counters, security screening areas, waiting lounges, and boarding gates designed to handle regular passenger traffic efficiently.

International: Currently, Silchar Airport does not operate scheduled international flights. The airport focuses exclusively on domestic connectivity.

Distance Between Silchar Airport Terminals

Since Silchar Airport operates with a single terminal building, there is no distance between separate terminals. All passenger services, flight operations, and amenities are housed within one integrated facility, making navigation straightforward and convenient for travelers.

How Many Runways in Silchar Airport?

Silchar Airport has one operational runway measuring approximately 1,829 meters in length. The runway has been designed to handle various aircraft types used for regional and domestic operations, including ATR turboprops and narrow-body jets. The runway is equipped with necessary lighting and navigation aids to support operations during various weather conditions. Given the region's heavy monsoon rainfall and occasional fog, the runway infrastructure includes drainage systems and safety measures to ensure reliable operations throughout the year.

Silchar Airport Lounges and Facilities

Silchar Airport offers essential facilities to ensure passenger comfort. Available facilities include:

• Renovated waiting lounges with comfortable seating
• Check-in counters with baggage handling services
• Security screening facilities meeting aviation standards
• Food and beverage outlets serving snacks, meals, and refreshments
• Small retail shops for travel essentials and souvenirs
• ATM facilities for banking needs
• Restroom facilities maintained throughout the terminal
• Medical first aid services
• Prayer room for passengers
• Tourist information counter
• Parking facilities for short-term and long-term parking
• Taxi services for ground transportation
• Free Wi-Fi connectivity in the terminal

How to Reach Silchar Airport from City Center

By Metro/Subway: Silchar does not have a metro or subway system. Transportation options are limited to buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and private vehicles.

By Bus: Bus services connecting the airport to Silchar city center are available through the Assam State Transport Corporation and private operators. However, services may not be very frequent, and schedules should be verified in advance.

By Taxi/Cab: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available and provide the most convenient transportation option. App-based cab services may have limited availability, but local taxi operators are easily accessible. Prepaid taxi services are available at the airport for arriving passengers.

By Private Car: Traveling by private car is a comfortable option. The airport is accessible via NH 6 and connecting roads. Parking facilities are available at the airport for both short-term and long-term parking needs.

Things to Do in Silchar Airport

As a regional airport, Silchar Airport offers basic but adequate amenities for passengers. Travelers can utilize waiting time by relaxing in the renovated lounge areas with comfortable seating. The airport has food and beverage outlets where passengers can enjoy local Assamese snacks and refreshments along with standard offerings. Free Wi-Fi is available for those who wish to stay connected or catch up on work. Small retail shops offer travel essentials, magazines, and local handicrafts that make good souvenirs. The compact size of the airport means shorter walking distances and generally quicker processing times. Given the limited entertainment options, passengers are advised to arrive with necessary reading material or digital entertainment. It is recommended to arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights to complete check-in and security procedures comfortably.

Places to Visit Near Silchar Airport

The Barak Valley region offers several attractions for visitors. Silchar itself is known for the Khaspur, an archaeological site featuring ancient temples and ruins dating back centuries. The Maniharan Tunnel, built during World War II, is a historical landmark that attracts visitors interested in military history. Bhubaneswar Temple, located on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Dolu Lake, a natural lake surrounded by green hills, is a popular picnic spot. The Borail Range offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts and trekkers to explore the scenic hills and forests. Silchar is also known for its Bengali culture, reflected in its cuisine, festivals, and literary traditions. The Gandhi Bag Park in the heart of Silchar is a pleasant recreational area. For those interested in tea culture, visits to nearby tea gardens provide insights into Assam's famous tea industry. The region's rivers, including the Barak River, offer scenic beauty and opportunities for boat rides. Nearby towns like Hailakandi and Karimganj can be explored for their unique cultural heritage and natural attractions.

FAQs About Silchar Airport - Kumbhirgram Airport

What is the Official Name of Silchar Airport?

The official name is Kumbhirgram Airport, named after the Kumbhir River and the locality where it is situated.

What is the IATA Code for Kumbhirgram Airport?

The IATA code is IXS.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Silchar Airport?

Silchar Airport has a single terminal that serves domestic flights only. Currently, there are no scheduled international flight operations from this airport.

Which Railway Station is Near to Silchar Airport?

Silchar Railway Station is the nearest railway station, located approximately 25 kilometers from the airport. It is well connected to major cities in Northeast India and other parts of the country.

Where is Silchar Airport Located?

The airport is located in Kumbhirgram, approximately 22 kilometers from Silchar city center in Assam.

When Was Silchar Airport Built?

The airport was originally established as a military airbase during World War II and was later converted for civilian use. It has undergone several phases of modernization and expansion over the decades.

Is Kumbhirgram Airport Open 24 Hours?

The airport operates according to scheduled flight timings and is not open 24 hours. Operating hours are aligned with the arrival and departure of flights.

How Far is Kumbhirgram Airport from Silchar City Center?

The airport is approximately 22 kilometers from Silchar city center, which typically takes 40-50 minutes by road depending on traffic and road conditions.

What Airlines Operate from Kumbhirgram Airport?

Airlines operating from Silchar Airport include Air India, IndiGo, and Alliance Air, connecting Silchar to cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, Imphal, Agartala, and Dibrugarh under both regular and UDAN scheme routes.

Are There Lounges at Silchar Airport?

Silchar Airport has basic lounge facilities and comfortable waiting areas for passengers. While the amenities are not as extensive as major metropolitan airports, they are adequate for the airport's size and passenger traffic.