Over the past many decades Visakhapatnam International Airport has evolved into a premier aviation gateway of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh.
Established as a military airfield during World War-II, it commenced civil operations in 1981 operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Today, the airport operates as a civil enclave alongside the airbase INS Dega, owned and operated by the Indian Navy.
It serves as a vital hub connecting the region with major domestic destinations including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Vijayawada, Tirupati, Bhubaneswar, Raipur, Kurnool and Jeypore, besides providing international connectivity to Singapore.
The airport also plays a significant role in strengthening regional connectivity under the Government of India’s UDAN Scheme.
Growth in Passengers
Over the last decade, Visakhapatnam Airport has witnessed remarkable growth and modernization.
As per the airport director passenger traffic at the city’s airport has increased from 10.98 lakh passengers in FY 2014-15 to a staggering 29.68 lakh passengers in FY 2025-26, representing an impressive growth of nearly 170%.
Simultaneously aircraft movements have increased from 11,306 to 21,799 during the same period.
Cargo operations have also registered steady growth, reflecting the airport’s increasing importance as a logistics and trade facilitator for the region.
Infrastructure Upgrade
The airport has undergone significant infrastructure enhancement in recent years.
A major terminal expansion commissioned in October 2022 increased the terminal area from 20,000 square metres to approximately 30,000 square metres and enhanced passenger handling capacity from 2.5 million passengers per annum to 3.6 million passengers per annum.
Further strengthening passenger convenience, an expanded Security Hold Area with additional seating and boarding facilities was commissioned in September 2024.
Passenger Assistance
Passenger experience remains at the core of airport development. The introduction of Digi Yatra, free public Wi-Fi, improved accessibility features, tactile pathways, wheelchair assistance, barrier-free access and dedicated passenger assistance facilities have significantly enhanced passenger convenience and travel experience. Nearly 30% of departing passengers are already availing Digi Yatra services.
Green Play
The airport has also emerged as a leader in sustainable aviation practices through adoption of 100% Green Power Tariff, rooftop solar power generation, wastewater recycling through a 180 KLD Sewage Treatment Plant and complete transition to energy-efficient LED lighting systems.
These initiatives underscore the airport’s commitment towards environmental stewardship and responsible growth.
Marquee Events
Visakhapatnam International Airport has consistently demonstrated operational excellence by successfully handling prestigious events such as the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 and the CII Partnership Summit 2025, involving large-scale VVIP and international delegate movements.
The airport’s commitment to cleanliness, safety and passenger service excellence was also recognized with the All-India Rank-3 Clean and Safe Airports Award in the 1.5–5 million Passenger category.
Yatri Suvidha Diwas
Visakhapatnam international airport will celebrate Yatri Suvidha Diwas – 2026 on 15 June 2026, reaffirming its commitment towards passenger-centric services, service excellence, accessibility, sustainability and stakeholder engagement.
“Yatri Suvidha Diwas provides an excellent opportunity to engage directly with passengers, recognize the invaluable contribution of frontline airport personnel and reaffirm our commitment towards providing world-class airport services.
As Visakhapatnam Airport continues its journey of growth, modernization and sustainability, passenger satisfaction will remain at the heart of all our initiatives” said the Airport director.
