Diu Airport

Diu Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to a world of colonial architecture and endless beaches. Located on a picturesque island, it welcomes travellers with a relaxed atmosphere and views of the azure waters of the Arabian Sea even before the wheels touch the runway. Thanks to its compact size, this airport eliminates the hustle and bustle of megacities, allowing you to start your holiday literally minutes after landing. It is the ideal starting point for those seeking seclusion and wishing to enjoy the "Portuguese" charm of India.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Diu Airport is its compactness and speed of service. There are no long queues for passport control or baggage claim here, which are typical of major hubs. The entire journey from the aircraft steps to the city exit usually takes no more than 15–20 minutes, which is especially valuable after a flight.

The terminal's location also plays into the hands of tourists. The airport is situated just a few kilometres from the famous Nagoa Beach, one of the most popular holiday spots on the island. This means you can find yourself on a sun lounger by the sea almost immediately after arrival.

It is important to note that the airport is a civil enclave functioning within a military airbase. This guarantees a high level of security and the pristine condition of the runway. The terminal building, though small, is kept clean and equipped with the necessary minimum for a comfortable wait, including air conditioning and seating areas.

To contact representatives of Diu Airport (DIU) or to obtain additional information, you may use the following contact details. We recommend checking the currency of the data on the official website, as it is subject to change.

• Official Website: The most complete and up-to-date information is presented on the official airport page on the Airports Authority of India (AAI) portal.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +91-2875-275334. This number is intended for general enquiries.
• Airport Address: Diu Airport, Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 362570, India.
• Email: For official enquiries, you can use the address apddiu@aai.aero (Airport Director's office).
• Social Media: Diu Airport does not have its own official pages. News can be tracked on the general accounts of the Airports Authority of India.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline directly. Airport staff do not process such requests.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and support, the main airport inquiry phone number can be used.

Diu Airport (DIU) is located very close to the city of the same name, so getting there is effortless. The trip from the central part of Diu to the terminal usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes. The main modes of transport for tourists are taxis and the ubiquitous auto-rickshaws, which have become a hallmark of India.

Taxis and Auto-rickshaws are the most convenient and common way to reach the airport. They can be found at almost any point in the city. The cost of a trip by auto-rickshaw will be the lowest, however, it is always better to agree on the price with the driver in advance to avoid misunderstandings. A taxi will cost slightly more but offers greater comfort, especially if you are travelling with luggage. You can book a car through your hotel or local taxi services.

Public Transport and Car Rental. There are no direct regular bus routes to the airport, as the island is small and most transport is carried out by rickshaws. There is also no railway station in Diu; the nearest one is in the city of Veraval, approximately 90 km away. For independent travellers, car or scooter rental is available — this is an excellent option not only for airport transfers but also for exploring all the island's attractions. The airport has a small parking area where rented vehicles can be left.

If you are planning your route and cannot find direct flights to Diu, it is worth considering flying into one of the nearby airports. The largest of these are the airport in Rajkot (HSR) and Surat Airport (STV), from where you can reach Diu by ground transport. Also located closer is Keshod Airport (IXK), situated approximately 95 km away.

Diu Airport (DIU) is a small and modern air terminal distinguished by a simple and intuitive structure. It consists of one integrated terminal that handles all domestic flights, both arrivals and departures. Thanks to this, passengers need not worry about complex transfers or searching for the right building.

The airport layout is very logical. The terminal building is designed as a single space where all key zones are on one level and within walking distance of each other. Immediately after entering the terminal, you find yourself in the general area with check-in counters. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to security screening, after which they find themselves in the waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrival area is equally compact and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city.

The check-in and screening process at Diu Airport usually proceeds very quickly, as it is not overloaded with a large number of flights. All formalities rarely take more than 20–30 minutes. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport 1.5 hours before departure to go through all procedures calmly.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the clear and simple signs. It is practically impossible to get lost here. The main advice for travellers is not to worry about complex logistics. Compactness and efficiency are the key characteristics of Diu Airport, making the start and end of your journey as comfortable as possible.

The history of Diu Airport (DIU) is inextricably linked with the colonial past of the region. The airport was built in 1954, when Diu was still under Portuguese administration. Initially, it served as a military airbase and transport hub for the Portuguese Air Force, ensuring connection with other overseas territories. It was one of the few airports built by the Portuguese on the territory of modern India.

After Diu became part of India in 1961, the airport came under the management of the Indian authorities. For some time, it was used primarily for military purposes. Full-scale civil operation began significantly later. A key stage was the introduction of commercial flights connecting the island with major cities such as Mumbai. This gave a powerful boost to the development of tourism in the region.

In the 21st century, the airport went through several stages of modernisation to meet modern aviation standards. The runway was updated, new navigation equipment was installed, and the passenger terminal was renovated to make it more comfortable for the growing flow of tourists. An important role in the recent history of the airport was played by the Indian government programme UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik), aimed at developing regional air travel and increasing the accessibility of small cities. Thanks to this programme, new routes were launched connecting Diu with other parts of the country.

Today, Diu Airport is a small but strategically important transport hub. It cannot boast record passenger traffic, but its main merit lies in providing fast and convenient connections for thousands of travellers wishing to discover the unique beaches and Portuguese architecture of this picturesque corner. Its history is a reflection of Diu's own journey: from a remote outpost to a popular tourist destination.

Diu Airport (DIU) is a compact regional air terminal that provides passengers with a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable journey. Although the infrastructure here is not as extensive as in the major international hubs of India, everything essential for waiting for a flight is available.

In the airport's single terminal, you will find several small cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat, drink coffee, or purchase soft drinks. There are also souvenir shops and kiosks selling newspapers and travel goods. The selection here is modest but sufficient for a short wait.

Passengers can make use of free Wi-Fi within the terminal. Special stations and power outlets are provided in the waiting hall for charging gadgets. Banking services are limited to a few ATMs. Full-service currency exchange points may be absent, so it is better to exchange money in the city beforehand.

Mother and child rooms are equipped for travellers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with staff assistance upon prior request to the airline, and the terminal is equipped with ramps and accessible restrooms.

Specialised VIP lounges, business centres, and conference halls are absent at Diu Airport. There are no hotels directly on the airport premises, but in the city of Diu itself, located just a few kilometres away, a wide choice of accommodation options is presented. A medical unit also operates around the clock within the terminal to provide first aid.

Diu Airport (DIU) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. Nevertheless, passengers can find basic opportunities for a snack before departure. It is important to understand that there are no full-service restaurants or a wide variety of cafes at the airport, as found in large international hubs.

The main place where you can have a snack is a small snack bar or cafe located in the general hall of the single terminal. It is usually situated in the area before security control (landside), making it accessible to all visitors. The assortment typically includes packaged snacks such as chips and biscuits, sandwiches, pastries, as well as hot and cold beverages — tea, coffee, water, and sodas.

Sometimes you can find simple Indian dishes here, for example, samosas or other fried snacks, which are excellent for a quick bite and an introduction to local flavours. However, for a full lunch or dinner, it is recommended to eat at one of the numerous restaurants in the city of Diu before arriving at the airport.

Passengers with specific dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, as well as those looking for gluten-free or Halal options) may find it difficult to find suitable variants. The assortment is extremely limited, so it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Prices at the airport are higher than in the city but remain within reason for an air terminal. The establishment's opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so it is open during periods of aircraft arrival and departure.

To ensure your journey through Diu City Airport goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, we have prepared several useful tips. By following these recommendations, you can avoid unnecessary stress and save time.

Arrival time at the airport. Diu Airport is small, but to go through all formalities without rushing, we recommend arriving no later than 2 hours before the departure of your domestic flight. It is always useful to additionally check the recommendations of your airline, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Check-in and Security. Registration and security control procedures here are standard. You can check in at the airline counter or, to save time, do it online in advance. After dropping off luggage, you will have to undergo security screening, where hand luggage and personal belongings are checked. Despite the compact size of the terminal, do not leave passing through control to the last moment.

Choosing a seat on the plane. When checking in online, you will have the opportunity to select a seat. Window seats will gift you beautiful views of the Arabian Sea coast during takeoff and landing. If quick access to the exit or restroom is important to you, choose an aisle seat.

Hand luggage rules. It is forbidden to carry liquids in containers larger than 100 ml in hand luggage, as well as any sharp objects and flammable substances. All liquids must be packed in a single transparent resealable bag. It is important to remember that portable chargers (power banks) must be carried only in hand luggage.

Passengers with transfers. Diu Airport mainly serves direct flights and is rarely used as a transit hub. If you do have a transfer planned, check with the air carrier in advance whether you will need to collect your luggage and check in for the next flight yourself.

Customs Control. Since the airport serves predominantly domestic flights within India, customs control is absent for most passengers. However, security screening is conducted very thoroughly for all departing passengers.

Saving time and money. To save time, use online check-in and travel light with only hand luggage. To save money, buy tickets in advance and check luggage allowances to avoid surcharges for excess weight. Prices for food and drinks in airports are usually higher, so you can bring permitted snacks with you.

In case of flight delay. If your flight is delayed, remain calm. First of all, contact a representative of your airline for up-to-date information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep an eye on updates on the information boards in the departure hall.