An era in Andhra Pradesh’s aviation history is coming to an end! Visakhapatnam Airport is preparing to stop all commercial operations after almost 70 years. The move comes as passenger services shift to the newly built airport in Bhogapuram, marking the end of an era for one of Andhra Pradesh’s oldest aviation hubs. Here’s all you need to know about this.
Visakhapatnam Airport To Stop All Commercial Flights
According to Deccan Chronicle, a new chapter in Visakhapatnam’s aviation history is about to begin as the city transitions to a new airport. On August 17, scheduled commercial flight operations at the Civil Enclave of INS Dega will officially come to an end, closing a civilian aviation chapter that began more than 70 years ago.
From the same day, commercial flights will take off from the soon-to-be-inaugurated airport in Bhogapuram, marking the beginning of a new era for air travel in Visakhapatnam. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued two gazette notifications confirming that the new airport will become operational at 12.01 AM on August 17, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to inaugurate the facility.
Once operations begin, all scheduled commercial flights will shift from the existing Civil Enclave at INS Dega, bringing civilian flight services there to an end. The move is in accordance with a condition laid down when the Bhogapuram airport project received site clearance in January 2016.
It is to be noted that the closure only affects scheduled commercial flights. The civil enclave will continue to handle non-scheduled flights, while INS Dega will remain operational as a military airbase.
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Alluri Sitarama Raju International Greenfield Airport Set For Inauguration
According to the Times of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the upcoming Alluri Sitarama Raju International Greenfield Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh on August 1, 2026. The new airport will start handling commercial flights on August 17, following the closure of scheduled operations at the existing Visakhapatnam Airport and the transfer of its airport code, VTZ.
Located in the Vizianagaram district, around 55 km from the existing Visakhapatnam Airport, the new Bhogapuram International Airport has been built at a cost of ₹4,727 crore. According to The Indian Express, the greenfield airport was completed in a record 31 months.
Its terminal draws inspiration from the flying fish, reflecting the Bay of Bengal and North Andhra’s rich maritime heritage, while intricate Rangoli-inspired patterns have been incorporated into the roof and ceiling, adding a touch of local culture to the modern design.
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Let us know your thoughts on this upcoming airport in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Facebook/VisakhapatnamAirport
FAQs
Why is Visakhapatnam Airport shutting down commercial operations?
Scheduled commercial flights are being shifted to the newly built Bhogapuram International Airport, as per the government's plan to develop a larger aviation hub for the region.
Where is Bhogapuram International Airport located?
The airport is located in Vizianagaram district, about 55 km from the existing Visakhapatnam Airport.
What is special about Bhogapuram International Airport?
The ₹4,727-crore Greenfield airport features a terminal inspired by the flying fish, reflecting the Bay of Bengal and North Andhra's maritime heritage. It also incorporates Rangoli-inspired motifs into its roof and ceiling design.
