Airports in Tripura: Domestic and International List

Tripura is a hidden gem in Northeast India, offering lush landscapes, royal palaces, and vibrant culture. When planning for a cosy vacation in the state, knowing about air connectivity is the first step.

Currently, the state relies heavily on one major hub for all air travel, Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport. In this blog, let’s explore deeper into the history, recent developments and future of Tripura Agartala Airport.

Air Connectivity in Tripura: An Overview

India’s central government and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) have focused heavily on upgrading infrastructure in Tripura to encourage air connectivity. While the state historically had multiple small airstrips, modern air travel is centralised.

The primary gateway is the Tripura Agartala Airport, officially known as Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport. It serves as the lifeline for the state, connecting Agartala to major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and Bangalore.

For travellers, this airport is often the starting point for exploring the Unakoti rock carvings or the Neermahal water palace. Let’s see what other airports are present in the region.

What is the List of Airports in Tripura?

When looking for the Tripura Airport name or a list of facilities, you will find one fully operational major airport and a few non-operational airstrips slated for future revival. They are:

Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport (Agartala)

The Tripura Agartala Airport (IATA Code: IXA) is more than just a transit point; it is a symbol of the state's rich history and modern aspirations. It is located about 12 kilometres northwest of the capital city, Agartala. Moreover, it is the second-busiest airport in Northeast India after Guwahati.

1. History and Legacy

The then-King of Tripura, Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, built the airport in 1942. It played a crucial role during World War II for the US Air Force. In 2018, authorities officially renamed Agartala Airport to Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport to honour the visionary king who designed the modern layout of the city.

2. Terminal and Facilities

Recent upgrades have transformed this domestic hub into an international centre. A new integrated terminal building was inaugurated in early 2022. This state-of-the-art facility spans 30,000 square meters and can handle significantly more passengers than the old terminal.

● Capacity: The terminal can accommodate up to 1,200 passengers during peak hours.

● Architecture: The interiors depict the local culture, featuring bamboo architecture and Unakoti stone carvings.

● Tech: It is equipped with modern IT systems, 20 check-in counters, 10 immigration counters and 4 aerobridges to ensure smooth passenger flow.

3. Is Tripura Agartala Airport an International Airport?

This is a common question many people ask. The Tripura Agartala Airport has been designated as an international airport. The new terminal includes customs and immigration counters to facilitate international travel. During peak hours, it can handle up to 200 international passengers.

The primary goal is to connect Agartala with Chittagong and Dhaka in Bangladesh. While the infrastructure is ready and the international status is official, regular international commercial flights are in the final stages of planning.

For now, it remains a bustling domestic hub with imminent international connectivity.

4. Connectivity

You can find direct flights to Agartala from:

● Kolkata (CCU)

● Guwahati (GAU)

● Delhi (DEL)

● Imphal (IMF)

Major airlines, such as IndiGo and Air India, operate frequent daily flights, making it accessible for tourists and business travellers alike.

What are the Other Airports in Tripura?

Apart from the main hub in Agartala, Tripura has other airstrips that are currently not in use for commercial flights but remain important for future connectivity plans:

● Kailashahar Airport: Once a busy World War II airstrip, it is now non-operational due to space and traffic constraints. The AAI has surveyed the feasibility of smaller aircraft like ATRs. The 1,000 m runway could boost Unakoti tourism if revived.

● Kamalpur and Khowai Airports: Managed by the AAI, these historic airstrips are currently non-operational with no commercial traffic. However, the authorities are focusing on strengthening the Tripura Agartala Airport and potentially reviving Kailashahar.

Why You Need Domestic Travel Insurance for Tripura?

Many travellers assume domestic trips do not require insurance, but that is a common misconception. Domestic travel insurance for Tripura helps cover different emergencies, ensuring financial protection and peace of mind throughout your journey.

Let’s see why you need travel insurance when planning a visit to the Hill Tippera (or Hill Tripura):

1. Flight Delays and Cancellations

Fog in Agartala or connecting hubs like Kolkata can often lead to flight delays. If airlines delay your flight significantly or cancel it, you may incur unexpected costs for food or accommodation. Recently, 9 flights at the Agartala airport were cancelled, leaving passengers stranded. With insurance, you can get the appropriate coverage during such incidents.

2. Baggage Loss or Delay

Losing luggage on a domestic flight may seem unlikely, but it happens. Whether transit misplaces it or delays it, it can disrupt your entire vacation plans. Insurance covers the cost of essential items while you wait for your bags or reimburses you for the loss.

3. Medical Emergencies

If you fall ill or get injured while exploring the remote hills of Jampui or the water palace, you want the best medical care without worrying about the bills. Travel Insurance ensures you have financial support for hospitalisation or emergency treatments within India.

Check out Bajaj General Insurance for reliable Domestic Travel Insurance plans to secure your trip to Tripura.

What are the Travel Tips for Tripura?

● Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to February is the ideal time to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and you avoid the heavy monsoon rains.

● Places to Visit: Explore popular attractions like Unakoti, Neermahal, Tripura Sundari Temple, Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, and Ujjayanta Palace to experience Tripura’s culture, history, and natural beauty.

● Transport: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available at the Agartala airport. You can book pre-paid taxis for a hassle-free ride to the city.

● Permits: Indian citizens do not need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Tripura, unlike some other Northeastern states. However, carry valid ID proofs, such as  Aadhaar or Voter ID.

● Local Cuisine: Try authentic Tripuri dishes like Mui Borok, Chakhwi, and bamboo shoot preparations for a true local experience.

What is the Future of Aviation in Tripura?

The future of aviation in Tripura appears promising. The new terminal at Agartala has doubled tourist-handling capacity, while proposed international flights to Bangladesh could position the city as a regional hub, boosting trade and tourism.

Moreover, the government’s UDAN scheme aims to revive smaller airports and make air travel more accessible. If Kailashahar airport becomes operational, it will significantly reduce travel time and improve connectivity to northern Tripura’s key tourist and heritage destinations.

Final Thoughts

Tripura is better connected now than ever before. The Tripura Agartala Airport offers world-class facilities and seamless domestic connections.

As the state gears up for international flights, your travel experience will only improve. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and do not forget to secure your journey with insurance. Download the Bajaj General app and buy travel insurance for your next trip within seconds.

FAQs

What is the official name of the Agartala Airport?

The official name is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport. It was renamed in 2018 to honour the state's former king.

Is there an international airport in Tripura?

Yes, the Tripura Agartala Airport is designated as an international airport. It has a new terminal with customs and immigration facilities. However, regular international flights are yet to commence.

How many operational airports are there in Tripura?

Currently, there is only one operational airport in Tripura, which is the Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala. The airport at Kailashahar, a former hub for air traffic, is currently non-operational.

Does the Agartala airport have night landing facilities?

Yes, the airport is equipped with night landing facilities, allowing flights to operate in the evening and at night. It improves connectivity with major cities such as Kolkata or Mumbai.

Why should I buy travel insurance for a domestic trip to Agartala?

Domestic travel insurance protects you against flight cancellations due to weather, lost baggage, and medical emergencies, which ensures a stress-free vacation in the Northeast.

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