Raja Bhoj Airport

Raja Bhoj Airport (IATA: BHO), named after the legendary 10th-century ruler, serves as the main air gateway to Bhopal — the capital of Madhya Pradesh, known as the "City of Lakes". As the second busiest airport in the state and the largest in terms of area, it represents a vital transport hub in central India. The airport connects the region with the country's major cities, facilitating both tourist and business traffic.

Managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Raja Bhoj Airport boasts a modern integrated terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. For passenger comfort, everything necessary is provided here: from cafes and shops to waiting lounges and Wi-Fi. The runway, with a length of 2744 metres, allows for the accommodation of large airliners, and the anticipated transition to 24-hour operations is expected to significantly increase capacity. Thanks to its strategic location in the centre of the country, the airport also possesses facilities for aircraft maintenance and repair (MRO), highlighting its importance to the region's aviation industry.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Raja Bhoj Airport (BHO).

• Official Website: www.aai.aero
• Helpdesk Number: +91 755 264 6001
• Address: Raja Bhoj Airport, Gandhi Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462036, India
• Email: apd_bhopal@aai.aero (Airport Director's office)
• Social Media: Official accounts can be found on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) by searching for @aaibplairport.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative at the airport immediately.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general inquiries and support, please use the main airport helpdesk number.

Raja Bhoj Airport (BHO) is located approximately 15 kilometres from the centre of Bhopal, making it quite accessible for travellers. You can reach it in several ways, depending on your budget, time, and preferences. When planning your trip through central India, you can choose the option that suits you best.

Taxis and Transfers — the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. You can use pre-paid taxi services, with counters located in the arrival hall, or book a car via mobile apps such as Ola and Uber, which are widely available in the city. The journey from central Bhopal to the airport will take about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of a taxi ride is usually between 400-600 Indian Rupees. For greater comfort, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Public Transport — the most budget-friendly option. City buses run to the airport, connecting it with key points in the city, including bus and railway stations. This is a good choice for travellers without a large amount of luggage. A bus ride will cost significantly less but may take more time — around one hour or longer considering stops. Please check routes and schedules in advance, as they may change.

Car Rental and Parking. If you prefer to drive yourself, you can rent a car. In Bhopal, services are available for both car rental with a driver (chauffeur service), which is a popular option among tourists in India, and self-drive. For those arriving at Raja Bhoj Airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking facilities are available on the airport premises for both short-term and long-term stays.

When planning your journey, it is also useful to know about other air hubs in the region. Depending on your route, it might be more convenient to fly into one of the neighbouring airports. The nearest options include Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore (170 km), Jabalpur Airport (278 km), or Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur (300 km).

Raja Bhoj Airport (BHO) in Bhopal is a modern and well-organised aviation hub. Its main feature is the presence of a single integrated terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This structure significantly simplifies navigation for passengers, as all main zones — from check-in to boarding — are located within one building.

The terminal is designed with traveller comfort in mind. The ground floor typically houses check-in counters and the arrival area with baggage reclaim belts. After check-in, passengers proceed to the upper floor, where security screening and passport control zones are located, followed by spacious waiting lounges with boarding gates. Since there is only one terminal, transfers between zones are not required — everything is within walking distance.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. In the departure area, you will find duty-free shops, cafes, and waiting lounges, including VIP lounges. The arrival area is equipped with everything necessary for quick baggage retrieval and exit to the city, where taxis and other modes of transport are available. Due to the airport's compactness, the time required to complete all formalities is generally short. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours prior, and for international flights — 2-3 hours before departure, to complete check-in and security screening without rushing.

For convenient navigation throughout the terminal, clear signage in English and Hindi is installed. Airport staff and information desks are always ready to help passengers find their way. Overall, the structure of Raja Bhoj Airport makes it one of the most convenient and user-friendly for travellers in central India.

The history of Raja Bhoj Airport (BHO) is inextricably linked with the development of the city of Bhopal and the entire state of Madhya Pradesh. Originally known as Bairagarh Airfield, it was a small airstrip. With the commencement of regular commercial flights in the 1960s, the airport began to play a more noticeable role in the region's transport system, although it remained a modest facility in terms of scale.

One of the most tragic and significant moments in the city's history, which also affected the airport's operations, was the industrial disaster of 1984. During those days, the small Bairagarh airfield became a vital logistical hub. It was here that aircraft arrived with medicines, doctors, specialists, and humanitarian aid from all over India and abroad. The airport played a key role in coordinating rescue operations, demonstrating its strategic importance to the city.

A real breakthrough in the airport's development occurred in the 21st century. In the early 2000s, it was renamed in honour of King Raja Bhoj, a 10th-century ruler from the Paramara dynasty, highlighting the connection to the region's rich historical heritage. However, the key event was a massive modernisation: on 28 June 2011, a new integrated terminal was inaugurated. This modern building was constructed in compliance with international standards and equipped with aerobridges, an expanded apron, and all necessary amenities for passengers.

The opening of the new terminal allowed the airport to gain international status. The first international flight was a charter for pilgrims heading to Jeddah for Hajj. This was a significant achievement and opened new opportunities for Bhopal. As part of the modernisation, the runway length was also increased to 2744 metres, enabling the accommodation of larger aircraft. Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that Raja Bhoj Airport became one of the first in India to install a solar power plant to meet its own energy needs, making it more eco-friendly.

Raja Bhoj Airport (BHO) offers passengers a wide range of services and amenities to make their stay as comfortable as possible. Within the terminal building, you will find several restaurants and cafes where you can grab a quick snack or have a full meal, choosing from local or international cuisine. Shops offering souvenirs, travel essentials, and press are also available to travellers.

For those who value enhanced comfort, VIP lounges operate at the airport. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and catch up on work. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous power outlets and dedicated charging stations are provided for electronic devices.

Passengers can utilise financial services such as ATMs and currency exchange counters. In case of unforeseen health issues, a medical centre is available at the airport, ready to provide first aid. For families with small children, equipped baby care rooms are available where you can change and feed your baby in comfort.

Raja Bhoj Airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: assistance with movement is provided, and ramps and specially equipped restrooms are available. Although there are no hotels directly on the airport premises, several hotels to suit any taste and budget are located in the immediate vicinity. For business travellers, conference rooms and business services may be available; it is recommended to check information regarding these in advance.

Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal offers passengers several good options for a snack or a full lunch, concentrated mainly in the main terminal building. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in giant airports, you certainly won't go hungry, and the quality of the local cuisine will be a pleasant surprise.

Most establishments are located in the Departures area (airside), after passing security control. Here you will find a small food court where you can find outlets serving traditional Indian fast food as well as more familiar cafes. In the public area (landside), before check-in, the choice is more modest, but you can easily find a coffee shop, such as the chain popular in India, Cafe Coffee Day, where you can have coffee with fresh pastries or a sandwich.

Be sure to take the opportunity to try authentic dishes. At the food court, you can order popular Indian snacks such as samosas (triangular pastries with a spiced vegetable filling) or pakoras (battered vegetables). For a more substantial meal, look for an establishment offering thali — a set meal of several small dishes served with rice and flatbreads. This is an excellent way to experience the variety of local cuisine before your flight.

Vegetarian dishes are widely available and form the basis of the menu in most establishments, which is characteristic of this region. Finding vegan or gluten-free options might be slightly more challenging, but staff are usually knowledgeable and ready to assist with selection. Do not hesitate to ask about the ingredients when ordering.

Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in the city but remain at an acceptable level. Cafes and restaurants usually operate according to the flight schedule — from early morning until the last flight departs. If you are short on time, a quick coffee at Cafe Coffee Day is the best choice. If time permits, head to the food court in the departures area to quietly enjoy a full meal.

To ensure your journey through Raja Bhoj Airport in the city of Bhopal goes smoothly, it is worth considering a few tips. Plan your arrival at the airport in advance: 2–3 hours before a domestic flight departure and 3–4 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, especially during the peak tourist season.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. At the check-in counter and during security screening, have your passport, ticket, and visa (if required for your trip to India) ready. Be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from your hand luggage for scanning. Security procedures here can be quite thorough, so remaining calm and organised will help you pass through them faster.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. A window seat will offer you picturesque views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Booking your ticket in advance gives you more options to choose from.

In hand luggage, liquids are permitted in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons are prohibited. Please note that power banks (external batteries) are usually only allowed to be carried in hand luggage. Be sure to check your airline's regulations, as they may differ slightly.

If you have a connecting flight, verify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Upon arriving in India from another country, you will have to pass through customs control. If you have no goods to declare, feel free to go through the "Green Channel". Otherwise, you must fill out a declaration and choose the "Red Channel".

To save money, book a taxi or use aggregator services via an app upon arrival — this is often more economical than negotiating with private drivers at the exit. You can also bring an empty water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after the security zone to avoid spending extra on beverages.

In case of a flight delay, remain calm. First, find an information board or your airline's counter to get the latest information. Know your rights: for long delays, airlines often provide vouchers for food or even hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance that covers such cases will also be a big plus.