Kempegowda International Airport, once known as Bengaluru International Airport, opened in 2008. It is now the main airport for all commercial flights in and out of Bangalore, India. Located in Devanahalli, it’s east of the Bengaluru-Hyderabad national motorway (NH44).
Driving from the city center takes about 50 minutes. You follow Ramana Maharshi Road / Bellary Road and NH44.
In December 2013, the airport was renamed to honor Kempe Gowda, the city’s founder. This change honors the city’s history and highlights the airport’s role in India’s growing aviation sector.
Key Takeaways
- Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) is the primary airport serving Bangalore, India.
- The airport is located in Devanahalli, approximately 50 minutes from the city center.
- The airport was renamed in 2013 to honor Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore.
- Kempegowda International Airport plays a critical role in India’s aviation industry.
- The airport’s strategic location and connectivity make it a key hub for travel.
Overview of Kempegowda International Airport
Kempegowda International Airport, known as BLR, is a key entry point to Bengaluru, India’s tech hub. It opened in 2008 and has quickly become one of India’s busiest airports. It connects the city to the world and supports its tech and business growth.
Historical Background and Significance
Before Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru used the old HAL Airport. The new airport honors Kempegowda I, Bengaluru’s founder. It’s now a key asset, helping Bengaluru grow by moving people and goods.
Airport Renaming and Heritage
In 2013, the airport was renamed to honor Kempegowda I. This move shows the airport’s dedication to Bengaluru’s history. It also highlights its status as a modern aviation center.
Role in India’s Aviation Sector
Kempegowda International Airport is a major player in India’s aviation world. It’s a hub for airlines like GoAir, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara. The airport’s growth, including Terminal 2’s opening in 2023, makes it a top aviation hub.
Where Is Bangalore Airport: Exact Location and Map
Kempegowda International Airport, also known as Bangalore Airport, is in Devanahalli. It’s about 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of Bengaluru’s city center. The exact address is Nadaprabhu Kempegowda International Airport, BIAL Road, Devanahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560300. It’s a key transportation hub, linking Bengaluru and southern India.
Travelers can reach the airport via the Bengaluru-Hyderabad national motorway (NH44). The drive from the city center to the airport takes about 50 minutes, depending on traffic. Google Maps provides real-time updates and directions for an efficient trip to Bangalore Airport.
Kempegowda International Airport covers 4,000 acres (1,600 hectares), making it one of India’s largest airports. It’s the third busiest, handling over 37.5 million passengers in 2023-24. International passenger traffic grew by 23.3% to 4.67 million in the same period.
| Metric | FY 2023-24 | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Passengers Handled | 37,528,533 | 17.6% increase |
| International Passengers | 4,667,631 | 23.3% increase |
| Aircraft Movements | 244,891 | 9.7% increase |
| Cargo Tonnage | 439,495 tonnes | 7.1% increase |
Kempegowda International Airport is a key gateway for Bengaluru and the surrounding areas. It serves both domestic and international travelers with its strategic location and growing volumes of passengers and cargo.
Terminal Architecture and Layout
Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore has two terminals for domestic and international flights. Terminal 1, opened in 2008, handles only domestic flights. Terminal 2, launched in 2023, serves both domestic and international routes.
Terminal 1 Design Features
Terminal 1 is like an international shopping mall. It offers many dining and shopping options. The design features high ceilings, natural light, and a modern feel to improve the passenger experience.
Terminal 2 Modern Infrastructure
Terminal 2 was designed by Skidmore Owings and Merrill and built by Larsen and Toubro. It’s a masterpiece of modern airport design. It covers 255,645 square meters and can handle up to 25 million passengers in its first phase.
The terminal’s interior is stunning, with amazing art and a focus on sustainability. It has over 500,000 live plants and a “forest belt” of 250,000 square feet. Terminal 2 is the world’s largest terminal to be pre-certified as a LEED Platinum building by the USGBC and has the IGBC Platinum certification for sustainable architecture.
Navigation Between Terminals
Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Kempegowda International Airport offer modern amenities and easy navigation. The airport’s design makes moving between terminals smooth. This makes it simple for travelers to find their way to services and facilities.
| Feature | Terminal 1 | Terminal 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Area | – | 255,645 square meters |
| Passenger Capacity | – | 25 million (Phase 1), 45 million (Phase 2) |
| Sustainability | – | LEED Platinum, IGBC Platinum certified |
| Green Infrastructure | – | 500,000+ live plants, 250,000 sq.ft. “forest belt” |
Airport Transportation Options
Getting to and from Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore is easy. The city has a good public transit system and private transfer services. This makes getting to the airport simple.
The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) runs airport shuttle buses called Vayu Vajra. They go to different parts of the city regularly. These buses help over 4 million people every day.
- Namma Metro, Bangalore’s metro, also connects to the airport. Stations are near the terminals.
- BMTC’s big bus network has over 6,000 buses. It’s a good way to get to the airport.
For a more personal and comfy ride, private airport transfer services are available. They offer a safe and easy way to travel. You get up to 60 minutes of free wait time after landing.
| Transportation Option | Details | Approximate Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Vayu Vajra Airport Shuttle | BMTC-operated buses with 15-minute frequency | Rs. 300 – Rs. 500 |
| Taxi/Cab Services | Megacabs, Karnataka Taxi, Meru | Rs. 600 – Rs. 900 |
| Uber/Ola | App-based ride-hailing services | Rs. 500 – Rs. 800 |
| Go Pink Taxis | Women-only taxi service for late-night arrivals | Rs. 800 – Rs. 1,200 |
With these options, traveling to and from the Bangalore airport is easy. You can get to your destination smoothly.
Domestic and International Flight Operations
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore is a key hub for air travel. It has two terminals for a wide range of flights. This meets the needs of both business and leisure travelers.
Major Airlines Operating
BLR Airport is home to top domestic and international airlines. These include:
- Air India
- IndiGo
- Vistara
- SpiceJet
- Emirates
- Singapore Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- Etihad Airways
Popular Routes and Destinations
Bangalore Airport connects to many domestic and international places. Some top routes include:
- Domestic: New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata
- International: Dubai, Singapore, Doha, London, Frankfurt
Flight Schedules and Peak Hours
BLR Airport has varied flight times, with busy hours in the early mornings and evenings. It’s wise to check your airline’s schedule and arrive early. The airport is always busy.
Terminal 2 (T2) at Bangalore International Airport (BLR) will start international flights on 12 September 2023. Before T2 opens, all international flights moved to T2 on 31 August 2023. This change helps with 30 to 35 daily international flights on 27 airlines.
| Passenger Statistics (FY 2023-24) | Value | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| Total Passengers | 37,528,533 | 17.6% |
| International Passengers | 4,667,631 | 23.3% |
| Aircraft Movements | 244,891 | 9.7% |
| Cargo Tonnage | 439,495 | 7.1% |
Terminal 1 Facilities and Services
Kempegowda International Airport’s Terminal 1 is designed for domestic travelers. It covers 150,556 square meters and handles about 20 million passengers each year. This terminal is dedicated to domestic flights.
At Terminal 1, you can find many dining options. From local South Indian dishes to international food, there’s something for everyone. You can also grab a quick bite at KFC or McDonald’s. Coffee lovers will enjoy Cafe Coffee Day, Starbucks, and Smoor.
The terminal has essential services like ATMs and bureaux de change. You can also shop for books, electronics, clothing, and crafts. If you’re in transit, there’s a baggage storage service. This lets you explore the city without carrying your bags.
Information counters are available 24/7 to help you. Whether you need help with check-in or just need directions, these staff members are ready to assist. They aim to make your airport experience smooth and hassle-free.
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Dining Options | A diverse range of local and international cuisine, including popular fast-food chains like KFC and McDonald’s, as well as specialty coffee shops like Cafe Coffee Day, Starbucks, and Smoor. |
| Shopping and Retail | A variety of shops selling books, electronics, clothing, and local crafts, along with bureaux de change and ATMs. |
| Baggage Storage | A convenient facility for transit passengers to store their bags, allowing them to explore the city without carrying their luggage. |
| Information Counters | Dedicated counters staffed 24/7 to assist passengers with inquiries and guidance throughout the terminal. |
Terminal 1 at Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore offers a wide range of facilities. It ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey for domestic travelers.
Terminal 2 Features and Amenities
Kempegowda International Airport’s Terminal 2 opened in 2023. It combines modern tech with passenger comforts. With 380,000 square meters and a capacity for 50 million passengers, it aims to improve travel in Bangalore.
Modern Technology Integration
Terminal 2 has advanced security and green initiatives. It has self-check-in stations for easier baggage handling. The terminal’s smart systems and large waiting areas make travel smooth and comfy.
Passenger Conveniences
Terminal 2 meets various passenger needs. It has 28 gates, 95 check-in spots, and 22 contact gates. There are also 15 bus gates and 17 security lanes. The baggage system can handle 4,500 items per hour, ensuring luggage is managed well.
Shopping and Dining Options
While dining options are fewer than in Terminal 1, there’s a mix of South Indian and international food. More shops and restaurants will open, improving the kempegowda airport terminal 2 experience. The terminal focuses on bangalore airport amenities, promising a variety of food and shopping.
Kempegowda International Airport’s Terminal 2 is a new standard for Indian airports. It combines tech, design for passengers, and green efforts. As it grows, travelers will enjoy a top-notch experience at this amazing facility.
Airport Lounges and Premium Services
Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, India, has many premium lounges and services. These lounges are in both domestic and international terminals. They aim to bring the essence of Bengaluru to travelers.
Terminal 1 has the “080” Domestic Lounge, named after Bengaluru’s dial code. Terminal 2 has two lounges: the “080” Domestic Lounge and the “080” International Lounge. The international lounge is huge, covering 3,055 square meters and can hold over 500 passengers. These lounges offer a calm space with local decor, comfy seating, and fast Wi-Fi.
Kempegowda International Airport also offers many premium services. The Terminal 2 lounges have great dining with menus by celebrity chef Ranveer Brar. They show off local traditions and ingredients. Travelers can also get help with their bags and have them wrapped for a fee, making their trip better.
