India’s vast and well-connected air network makes flying the most efficient way to travel between cities. With a combination of international hubs, domestic airports, and regional connections, it’s easy to reach both popular destinations and offbeat locations across the country. As someone who’s explored India extensively by air, I’ve found that understanding flight options and nearby airports can save you both time and hassle.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to reaching major Indian cities by air, including the best airports, flight options, and travel tips.
1. Delhi (Indira Gandhi International Airport – DEL)
Delhi, the capital of India, is one of the busiest travel hubs in the country, serving both international and domestic routes.
- International Flights:
Direct flights connect Delhi with major global cities like London, New York, Singapore, and Dubai. Airlines include Air India, Emirates, British Airways, and Lufthansa. - Domestic Flights:
Delhi has frequent flights to major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and tourist spots like Varanasi and Leh.
Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet - Travel Tip:
Use the Delhi Airport Express Metro for a fast (20-minute) ride to the city center.
2. Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport – BOM)
Mumbai, India’s financial capital, is a major gateway for both business and leisure travelers.
- International Flights:
Direct connections to cities like New York, London, Dubai, Singapore, and Frankfurt. Airlines include Qatar Airways, Etihad, and Air India. - Domestic Flights:
Regular flights to Goa, Pune, Hyderabad, Jaipur, and Kochi.
Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, GoFirst, Vistara - Travel Tip:
The Terminal 2 (T2) of Mumbai airport is known for its art gallery showcasing Indian heritage.
3. Bengaluru (Kempegowda International Airport – BLR)
Bengaluru, the IT capital of India, is a major hub for both domestic and international travel.
- International Flights:
Direct connections to Dubai, Doha, Frankfurt, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Major carriers include Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines. - Domestic Flights:
Frequent flights to cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, Delhi, and Cochin.
Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, Air Asia India - Travel Tip:
Bengaluru airport has multiple lounges and a 24/7 food court, ideal for late-night or early-morning travelers.
4. Chennai (Chennai International Airport – MAA)
Chennai is a key gateway to South India, with excellent connections to international and domestic destinations.
- International Flights:
Direct flights to cities like Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and London. Carriers include Emirates, AirAsia, and British Airways. - Domestic Flights:
Easy access to nearby cities like Bengaluru, Coimbatore, Madurai, and Kochi.
Airlines: IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India - Travel Tip:
If you have a long layover, visit St. Thomas Mount or Marina Beach, both located near the airport.
5. Kolkata (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport – CCU)
Kolkata, a cultural hub in eastern India, is well-connected by both international and domestic air routes.
- International Flights:
Regular flights to Dhaka, Bangkok, Dubai, and Singapore. Airlines include Biman Bangladesh, Emirates, and Thai Airways. - Domestic Flights:
Frequent flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati, and Port Blair.
Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, GoFirst - Travel Tip:
Sample Kolkata’s famous rasgullas and sweets from airport vendors before your flight.
6. Hyderabad (Rajiv Gandhi International Airport – HYD)
Hyderabad is a growing IT and cultural hub with excellent air connectivity.
- International Flights:
Direct services to Dubai, Doha, London, and Chicago. Major carriers include Emirates, Qatar Airways, and British Airways. - Domestic Flights:
Connections to major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Jaipur.
Airlines: Vistara, IndiGo, Air Asia India - Travel Tip:
Hyderabad airport is known for its efficient security procedures and spacious lounges.
7. Goa (Goa International Airport – Dabolim – GOI)
Goa’s main airport serves as a gateway to the state’s famous beaches and nightlife.
- International Flights:
Seasonal charter flights from Russia, the UK, and Europe, along with regular services from Dubai and Doha. - Domestic Flights:
Direct flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Pune.
Airlines: SpiceJet, IndiGo, Air India - Travel Tip:
During peak season (December to February), book flights well in advance to secure reasonable fares.
8. Jaipur (Jaipur International Airport – JAI)
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur has a growing air network that caters to both tourists and business travelers.
- International Flights:
Limited international connections to Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, and Sharjah. - Domestic Flights:
Easy access to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Udaipur.
Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, Air Asia - Travel Tip:
The airport is just a 30-minute drive from the historic City Palace and Hawa Mahal.
9. Kochi (Cochin International Airport – COK)
Kochi is a major hub for Kerala, known for its backwaters and Ayurvedic retreats.
- International Flights:
Direct flights to Middle Eastern destinations like Dubai, Doha, and Muscat. Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Oman Air operate frequent services. - Domestic Flights:
Regular flights to Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi.
Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, Vistara - Travel Tip:
Kochi airport is the world’s first fully solar-powered airport—a fascinating eco-friendly initiative.
10. Leh (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport – IXL)
Leh, a gateway to Ladakh, is one of the highest airports in the world.
- Domestic Flights:
Limited but direct flights from Delhi, Srinagar, and Chandigarh.
Airlines: Air India, Vistara, GoFirst - Travel Tip:
Due to high altitude, avoid exertion immediately upon arrival. Spend the first day acclimatizing.
11. Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport – IXZ)
Port Blair is the entry point to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Domestic Flights:
Direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.
Airlines: IndiGo, GoFirst, Vistara - Travel Tip:
Book early for flights during the peak season (October to February) to secure affordable fares.
India’s air travel network offers convenient and efficient connections to both major cities and remote regions. Whether you’re planning a cultural exploration, beach getaway, or Himalayan adventure, flying is often the fastest way to reach your destination. By choosing the right airport and flight, you can maximize your travel experience and minimize travel time.
Which city are you flying to next? Share your travel plans and questions in the comments below!
