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Aizawl Airport

About the Airport

Aizawl Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Aizawl Airport, officially known as Lengpui Airport, is not just an air gateway to the state of Mizoram, but a true engineering marvel. It became the first major airport in India to be built by a state government and was completed in record time. Located amidst picturesque green hills, it offers travellers breathtaking views right upon landing, making the introduction to the region truly unforgettable. The airport plays a key role in the state's transport system, providing a vital link to the rest of the country.

IATA Code AJL
ICAO Code VELP
City Aizawl
Distance to Centre approx. 32 km
Status Domestic
Annual Passengers 493,465 (2023-2024)
Popular Airlines IndiGo, Alliance Air, Air India.
Schedule Online Board "Aizawl Airport"

The main feature of Lengpui Airport is its runway. It is one of the few "table top" runways in India, located atop a plateau, which requires pilots to perform a particularly precise approach. The construction of the runway itself is unique, as several mountain streams flow beneath it. Despite its modest size, the airport is equipped with everything necessary for passenger comfort: there is a single terminal serving both arrivals and departures, check-in counters, cafes, and shops with local souvenirs. For flight safety in low visibility conditions, a modern Instrument Landing System (ILS) is installed, and taxi services are always available for the convenience of arriving passengers.

Contact Information

Below you will find the main contact information for Aizawl Airport (Lengpui Airport). Please note that details may change, and it is recommended to visit the official website for the most accurate information.

  • Official Website: Generally, information about the airport is available on the Airports Authority of India (AAI) portal: www.aai.aero/en/airports/details/Aizawl
  • Helpline Phone: You can contact the airport administration using the number +91 389 257 3233.
  • Airport Address: Lengpui Airport, Aizawl, Mizoram 796421, India.
  • Email: For general enquiries, you can use the address intended for the Airport Director: apdaizawl@aai.aero.
  • Social Media: The airport may not have its own dedicated pages, but current news is often published on the official channels of the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
  • Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative directly at the airport.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For information regarding flights, services, and airport regulations, it is recommended to use the helpline phone or the information available on the official website.

How to Get to the Airport

There are several ways to get to Lengpui Airport (Aizawl Airport, AJL), which serves the city of Aizawl. The airport is located approximately 32 kilometres from the city centre, and due to the hilly terrain and winding roads, the journey usually takes from 1 to 1.5 hours. It is recommended to leave in advance to avoid missing your flight.

Taxi and Private Transfer are the most convenient and popular ways to get to the airport. You can order a taxi through your hotel or use pre-paid taxi services directly from the city. This guarantees a fixed trip cost and eliminates the need to bargain. Although this is the most expensive option, it ensures maximum comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Public Transport is mainly represented by shared taxis, known as "Sumo". These are large jeeps that ply specific routes and depart as they fill up. This is a very budget-friendly option, but be prepared for cramped conditions and a lack of space for large luggage. Bus service to the airport is less regular, so it is difficult to rely on it when planning a trip to catch a flight.

Car Rental is also possible, but in this part of India, cars are most often rented with a driver. This is an excellent option if you want more flexibility in your schedule or plan to visit other places on the way to the airport. It is better to arrange the rental in advance through local travel agencies.

For those travelling in their own or rented vehicle, there is a car park within the Aizawl airport grounds. It is not very large, but there are usually enough spaces for short-term and long-term parking.

Given the specifics of the region, it is also worth considering alternative airports for planning your route. The nearest major aviation hubs are located in the cities of Silchar (125 km), Agartala (141 km), and Imphal (165 km). For travel through neighbouring countries, you can look at airports in Sylhet (Bangladesh) or Kalemyo (Myanmar).

Terminals and Map

Aizawl Airport (AJL), also known as Lengpui Airport, is a compact and functional aviation hub serving the state of Mizoram. Its structure is simple and clear, making the stay here comfortable even for those travelling for the first time.

The main feature of the airport is the single passenger terminal, which serves both domestic departures and arrivals. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between different buildings — all necessary procedures and zones are under one roof. The terminal layout is intuitive: after entering, you immediately find yourself in the general hall where airline check-in counters are located.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. After checking in for a flight, passengers proceed to the security screening area, beyond which lies a small but cosy waiting lounge with a boarding gate. The arrival zone is located in another part of the building and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the general hall, where you can meet arriving passengers or find a taxi.

Given the modest size of the airport, completing all pre-flight formalities generally does not take much time. Check-in and security checks usually proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport typically 1.5-2 hours before departure to check in luggage and go through all procedures without rushing.

Navigating the terminal will not cause difficulties. Signs will help you orient yourself, and the small space makes it easy to find everything you need — from check-in counters to the waiting lounge. All key points are within a few minutes' walk of each other, making Aizawl Airport very convenient for passengers.

Airport History

The history of Lengpui Airport (AJL), which serves the city of Aizawl, is a shining example of engineering skill and determination. Before its inception, the state of Mizoram, located in a picturesque but hard-to-reach corner of Northeast India, suffered from transport isolation. The idea of creating an air gateway to the region was the answer to the acute need for a fast and reliable link with the rest of the country.

Design and construction began in 1995 and presented a colossal task. The terrain around Aizawl is hilly, and to create a runway of suitable length, engineers literally had to cut down and level the tops of three hills. This massive project was completed in record time — in just two years and two months. The grand opening of the airport took place in December 1998, marking a new era for the entire state.

Since opening, the airport has played a key role in the economic and social development of the region. It became one of the few in India built by the state government rather than central authorities. Over time, the airport has undergone several stages of modernisation, including the installation of modern navigation equipment, which is especially important for flights in the complex weather conditions characteristic of the mountainous area. Work is underway to further expand the terminal and improve infrastructure to accommodate a larger number of passengers and types of aircraft.

One of the most interesting facts about Lengpui Airport is its status as a "table-top" airport. This means that the runway is located on a plateau, the slopes of which drop away steeply. Such a feature requires the highest level of skill from pilots and makes every landing and take-off an unforgettable spectacle for passengers, who are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding green hills.

Services and Amenities

Aizawl Airport (AJL), despite its modest size, offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several small cafes and eateries where you can have a snack or drink coffee before your flight. There are also shops offering essential goods, press, and local souvenirs, which will serve as a great reminder of your trip to Mizoram.

For the convenience of passengers, the terminal building is equipped with waiting lounges with a sufficient number of seats. Although exclusive VIP lounges may be limited, the general atmosphere in the terminal is calm. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi to connect with loved ones or handle work matters. Charging stations for mobile devices are also installed in the waiting areas.

Basic financial and medical services are available within the airport grounds. At the disposal of travellers are ATMs for withdrawing cash. Currency exchange points may be absent or have limited operating hours, so it is recommended to arrange money exchange in advance. In case of need, you can visit the first aid station operating at the airport.

Aizawl Airport is equipped to receive passengers with special needs. Wheelchairs are provided upon request, and the terminal itself is equipped with ramps and special restrooms for passengers with reduced mobility. Families with small children can use the mother and child room, where they can feed and change the baby in a quiet environment.

There are no hotels directly at the airport, however, various accommodation options can be found in the city of Aizawl, which is about an hour's drive away. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are absent in the terminal, so for business meetings, it is better to book a suitable venue in one of the city's hotels in advance.

Dining

Aizawl Airport (AJL), also known as Lengpui Airport, is a relatively small regional airport. Dining options here are modest but quite sufficient for a snack before departure. You will not find large restaurant chains in the terminal building, however, there are several small cafes and snack bars offering both packaged snacks and freshly prepared dishes.

The main focus of the menu is on quick and light snacks. Passengers can order tea, coffee, soft drinks, as well as popular snacks in India such as samosas, sandwiches, and pastries. This is a great option for those short on time. If you are looking for a more substantial lunch, some establishments may offer simple combo meals consisting of rice, curry, and vegetables. Although the selection of local Mizoram cuisine is limited, sometimes you can find something authentic on the menu — it is worth checking with the staff.

Catering establishments are located both in the general area before security (landside) and in the departure lounge after passing security control (airside). Typically, the main food court is in the public area, while a small kiosk with drinks and snacks is located in the departure zone. Vegetarian dishes are widely available, which is standard for India. However, finding certified Halal, vegan, or gluten-free options may be challenging, so passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to carry their own snacks.

Prices at Aizawl Airport are moderate, especially compared to major international airports. The opening hours of cafes and snack bars are directly linked to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last aircraft departs, so you will always be able to find a place to refresh yourself.

Travel Tips

Travelling through the airport of Aizawl city (AJL), the gateway to the picturesque state of Mizoram, can be a simple and pleasant experience if you prepare in advance. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the airport and avoid unnecessary stress during your trip to India.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Aizawl Airport is not very large, but as with any airport, it is better to play it safe. It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This will give you enough time to complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass security checks without rushing. To save time, use the online check-in offered by most airlines.

Security Check and Hand Luggage. Be prepared for standard screening procedures. You will need to remove laptops, tablets, power banks, and liquids from your hand luggage. Remember that liquids are allowed in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Always carry power banks and spare lithium batteries in your hand luggage, not in checked baggage. Sharp and cutting objects are strictly prohibited.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If you want to enjoy stunning views of the Mizoram hills during take-off or landing, choose a window seat. For greater comfort and the ability to stretch your legs, an aisle seat is better suited. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the final destination. In case of a short connection, study the layout of the transfer airport in advance.

Customs Control. Since Aizawl Airport primarily serves domestic flights, most passengers will not have to go through customs control. If you are arriving by an international flight at another airport in India and then flying to Aizawl, you will complete all customs formalities at the first airport of arrival in the country.

Saving Money and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security control. Prices for food and drinks in airports are usually inflated. In case of flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline's counter for information on further actions, possible compensation, or the provision of food and accommodation.

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