Kolkata, ‘The city of joy’, is a delightful blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and numerous cultural institutions. No other city landmark depicts this better than the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.
Located in the city of Kolkata, the airport is named in honour of the prominent leader of Indian independence, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. Passengers travelling from here can enjoy a glimpse of the rich Bengali culture, with photographs of traditional folk dances adorning the walls and verses from Tagore’s writings inscribed on the ceilings.
Are you planning to book a flight from Kolkata’s Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport? Here are five things you ought to know.
• Kolkata Airport is super busy!
The Kolkata Airport is the largest hub for air traffic in Eastern India and a major hub for flights to Northeast India and neighboring regions such as China, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and South-east Asia. Jet Airways, Air India, SpiceJet, Go Air, and IndiGo are the major airlines operating from the Kolkata airport.
The airport has an annual footfall of over 15 million passengers. This airport is the 5th busiest airport in India and has the 5th longest runway in India. Busy? You bet!
• It is well connected to the city
The airport’s new terminal has 2 underground parking levels that can house 3000 cars, and the car park in the landscaped outdoor area can accommodate another 2000. So, you can drive in and drive out in style!
Car hire counters are located at the arrival lounge of the international terminal. Avis and local company Wenz represent the airport. Private operators like Ola, Uber, and Meru ply at economical rates, so you are covered if you are not using your own transport.
As for public transport connectivity, West Bengal Surface Transport Corporation (WBSTC) operates AC bus services from the airport to various locations within the city. Pre-paid taxis are available round the clock between Gates 3 and 4. The airport is connected to Kolkata Suburban railway system as well. What’s more, the metro currently plies between Dum Dum station and city centre every 10-15 minutes from early in the morning.
• Kolkata Airport believes in pampering travellers!
When it comes to amenities provided for travellers, Kolkata Airport is right up there. Terminal no. 2 has 128 check-in counters, 78 immigration counters, 12 customs counters, and 18 aero-bridges. 12 new retiring rooms are present on the mezzanine floor.
Multiple Bank ATMs and bureau exchanges are located within the terminal. For the email and internet buffs, Wi-Fi service is available at the airport granting passengers free access for 30 minutes and thereafter at a nominal rate.
Foodies and shopaholics never had it better! There are eateries including coffee shops, bakeries, and restaurants serving Indian and international cuisines. Also, there are small duty-free shops at both terminals.
Other miscellaneous facilities include childcare rooms and medical services offering first aid and emergency support.
• Kolkata Airport is getting bigger
Kolkata Airport is all set to more than double its yearly passenger capacity to handle up to 40 million passengers by 2021. The new five level L-shaped terminal replaces the old domestic and international terminals. It integrates both international and domestic departures. It has 128 check-in counters, a VIP lounge, and inline baggage handling facilities. A 25-room hotel on the 2nd floor of the new terminal’s arrival lounge is also planned.
• Hotels near Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport? Travelers are spoilt for choice!
The nearest hotel to Kolkata Airport is The Swissotel Kolkata located 3 km away. It offers luxury accommodation and dining facilities.
Other prominent hotels near Kolkata Airport are The Ethnotel, Hyatt Regency, Hotel O2 VIP, Golden Heaven Hotel, The Silverline Hotel, and Shree Krishna International Hotel and Resort.
Budget options include Hotel Eastern Plaza, The Jagannath Hotel, and the Vesper Guest House.