As of 2024, India boasts a staggering number of airports, with a total count of 137. While most of these airports handle domestic flights, there are 34 international airports that stand out due to their vast size and operational capabilities. If you’re curious about the biggest airports in India and what makes them so significant, you’re in the right place. Today, we’ll take a deep dive into the top 10 largest airports in India, exploring their features and capacities. So, let’s embark on this journey to discover what makes these airports the largest and busiest in the country.

Top 10 Biggest Airports In India: A 2024 Overview

1. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad

At the top of our list is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, the largest airport in India. Spanning over 5,500 acres, this airport leads in several key areas. It was a pioneer in implementing e-boarding for both domestic and international passengers. Located in Shamshabad, Hyderabad, the airport is equipped with 12 Passenger Boarding Bridges, 19 Self-check-in Counters, 46 Immigration Counters, and a VIP Lounge. Designed to handle substantial passenger and cargo volumes, it served over 21 million passengers and processed more than 140,000 tonnes of cargo from April 2022 to March 2023.

2. Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi

Following closely is Indira Gandhi International Airport, located in New Delhi. Covering 5,106 acres, this airport is the busiest in India, with a total of four runways. Situated in Palam, Delhi, it caters to over 37 million passengers annually. Recent upgrades include the addition of dual elevated eastern cross taxiways and a new runway that was inaugurated in July 2023. These enhancements have significantly improved its connectivity and operational efficiency, solidifying its role as a major transport hub in the region.

3. Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore

Third on the list is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which occupies 4,000 acres. It was the first airport in South India to feature two parallel runways and is recognized for its eco-friendly initiatives. Notably, it is the first airport in the state to be entirely solar-powered. Since its opening in 2008, the airport has been expanding to meet increasing travel demands. A new terminal, which began construction in December 2022, is set to enhance connectivity with international destinations and accommodate growing passenger traffic.

4. Manohar International Airport, Goa

Manohar International Airport, also known as Mopa Airport, is situated in North Goa and covers 2,132 acres. Opened in January 2023, it serves as the second international gateway to Goa, complementing the older Dabolim Airport. Named after a former Defence Minister and Chief Minister of Goa, this airport features modern amenities such as an ATC tower, a cargo terminal, and a well-equipped food court. Its strategic location and advanced facilities are expected to boost tourism and positively impact the region’s economy.

5. Dabolim Airport, Goa

Dabolim Airport, which spans 1,700 acres, is integrated into a naval airbase and handles both domestic and international flights. Established in 1955, it has been a crucial link for travelers heading to Goa’s scenic beaches and landscapes. The airport’s fully functional integrated terminal, completed in 2013, ensures a seamless travel experience for passengers.

6. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, located 15 km from Kolkata’s city center, covers 1,640 acres, making it the largest airport in Eastern India. The airport features two parallel runways and three terminals, with a capacity to process 18 million passengers annually. As the sixth busiest airport in the country, it is equipped with modern facilities such as CAT-II ILS for safe night landings, 78 immigration counters, and 128 check-in counters, ensuring a smooth journey for travelers.

7. Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi

Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi spans 1,568 acres and is named after the renowned Indian tribal freedom fighter, Birsa Munda. This airport primarily manages domestic flights and has undergone significant upgrades since its opening in March 2013. It now features two new aerobridges and modern cargo facilities, handling over 2.4 million passengers annually with enhanced efficiency.

8. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai covers 1,500 acres and is the second busiest airport in India. It serves over 60 million passengers each year and boasts the country’s second-highest ATC tower. The airport offers extensive facilities, including ample car parking, business lounges, and numerous shops. Its connectivity is further supported by major roads like the Eastern and Western Express Highways, making it a critical hub for both local and international travelers.

9. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur

Located just 8 km from Nagpur’s city center, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport covers 1,355 acres. The airport’s new terminal, opened in April 2008, has a capacity to accommodate 550 passengers at its peak. It features modern amenities such as an advanced baggage handling system, a spacious parking area, and high-quality service facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers.

10. Cochin International Airport, Kochi

Cochin International Airport, the largest airport in Kerala, spreads across 1,300 acres. It is notable for being the world’s first fully solar-powered airport. Developed through a public-private partnership, it serves as a model for modern airport infrastructure in India. The airport includes three passenger terminals and an exclusive cargo terminal, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and efficiency.

Conclusion

These are the biggest airports in India as of 2024, showcasing a blend of historical significance and modern advancements. From newly established airports to those with decades of service, each plays a crucial role in connecting India to the world. If there are any updates or new additions to this list, we’ll keep you informed. For now, these airports represent the pinnacle of air travel infrastructure in India, reflecting the country’s growing importance on the global stage.