Gwalior Airport

Gwalior Airport, officially known as the Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Terminal, is a key transport hub serving the historic city of Gwalior in the state of Madhya Pradesh. This air gateway represents a unique combination of a civil and military airfield, playing a vital role in both tourism development and meeting the needs of the Indian Air Force. Located approximately 10 km northeast of the city centre, the airport serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the cultural and natural treasures of central India.

One of the main features of Gwalior Airport is the presence of two parallel runways, which is a rarity for airports in central India and allows for the efficient handling of both civil and military aircraft. In recent years, the airport's infrastructure has been significantly modernised, including the construction of a new terminal, which has enhanced passenger comfort. Thanks to its strategic location, the airport is popular with tourists heading to Kuno National Park. The airport serves flights to key domestic destinations, connecting Gwalior with major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

To ensure your journey proceeds smoothly, we have compiled essential contact information for Gwalior Airport. Save these details—they may come in handy for resolving queries before or during your trip.

• Official Website: You can always find the most complete and up-to-date information on flight schedules, services, and airport regulations on the official Airports Authority of India (AAI) website: www.aai.aero/en/airports/gwalior.
• Helpline Phone: For immediate information and enquiries, you can contact the airport by phone: +91-751-2473880.
• Airport Address: Airport Main Rd, Maharajpura, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474020, India.
• Email: For official requests and written correspondence, use the contact email address of the airport directorate: apd_vigr@aai.aero.
• Social Media: News and updates can be followed via the official accounts of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), links to which are available on their main website.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should first contact the representative of the airline you flew with. Their counters are typically located in the arrivals area.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions, you can approach the information desk located in the terminal or call the main airport phone number listed above.

You can reach Gwalior Airport (IATA: GWL), located approximately 10 kilometres northeast of the city centre, in several ways. The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and comfort preferences while travelling through India.

Taxi and Transfer. The most convenient and popular way to get to the airport from Gwalior is by taxi. You can use the services of local taxi companies or book a car via mobile apps like Ola or Uber, which are widely used in the city. The journey from the city centre usually takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is a reliable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage. You can also pre-book a transfer through your hotel, ensuring a fixed price and a driver meeting you at a designated time.

Auto-rickshaw. For a more authentic and budget-friendly journey, you can hire an auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk). This option will be cheaper than a taxi but less comfortable, especially in the heat or with bulky luggage. It is extremely important to agree on the fare with the driver before the trip starts to avoid misunderstandings upon arrival. A trip by auto-rickshaw may take slightly longer than by taxi.

Public Transport. Direct bus routes connecting the city centre to the airport may be limited or inconvenient for tourists. Local buses run through the city, but their routes can be confusing for those unfamiliar with the transport system. This method is suitable for experienced travellers with minimal luggage who are ready for an adventure and wish to save as much as possible.

Car Rental and Parking. You can rent a car in the city, most often with a driver, which is an excellent option for those planning not only a trip to the airport but also further exploration of the surroundings. If you are driving to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, paid parking is available on the premises where you can leave your vehicle for a short or long duration.

Gwalior Airport (GWL), known as the Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Air Terminal, currently serves passengers through one new and modern terminal. The old building was replaced by a larger and more technologically advanced complex, which opened in 2024 to accommodate growing passenger traffic and improve comfort levels for travellers. This single integrated terminal handles both arriving and departing flights.

Because all operations are concentrated in one building, navigation through the airport is intuitive, and there is no need to transfer between terminals. The terminal layout is simple and logical:

• The Departure Zone is located on one level and includes check-in counters, a security screening point, and a waiting lounge with boarding gates.
• The Arrival Zone is located separately and is equipped with baggage claim belts and an exit to the city, where passengers are met by taxis and transfers.

The new terminal is equipped with modern amenities, including multiple check-in counters and boarding gates, which has significantly speeded up service. Despite the increase in size, the airport remains quite compact. The process of checking in for a flight and passing through security usually does not take much time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing, especially during peak hours.

For convenient navigation through the terminal, follow the signs—they are clear and easy to understand. The entire path from the entrance to the boarding gate is organised sequentially, minimising the risk of getting lost. Airport staff are always ready to help and answer your questions. Since all services are under one roof, you will easily find everything you need, whether it is your airline's counter or the waiting area.

The history of Gwalior Airport (GWL) is closely tied to the history of the city itself and the ruling Scindia dynasty. Originally, the Maharajpur Airfield was established on this site in the 1940s at the initiative of Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia. After India gained independence, it was transformed into one of the key bases of the Indian Air Force. The civil sector, or enclave, appeared here much later to provide air connectivity for the region.

A key stage in the development of civil aviation in Gwalior was the opening of a new terminal in 2010. This building was designed to handle growing passenger traffic and significantly improved comfort for travellers. However, with the increasing popularity of the region, more extensive modernisation was required.

The most significant transformation in the airport's history occurred quite recently. In October 2022, the foundation stone was laid for a new, modern terminal named after Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia. This ambitious project was completed in record time—just 16 months—and the new terminal was inaugurated in March 2024. Its architecture is inspired by the famous Man Singh Palace located in Gwalior Fort, creating a symbolic link between history and modernity.

An interesting fact: Gwalior Airport is a prime example of a dual-use facility. It is a civil enclave within an active military airbase, where Indian Air Force fighter jets are stationed. The Scindia family, who founded the first airfield, continues to play an important role in the country's aviation today—a descendant of the dynasty, Jyotiraditya Scindia, served as India's Minister of Civil Aviation, overseeing, among other things, the reconstruction project of the airport in his hometown.

Gwalior Airport (GWL), despite its compact size, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. In the terminal, you will find several dining outlets where you can have a snack or drink coffee. These are mostly small cafes and eateries offering both local and popular dishes. Additionally, there are shops where you can buy travel essentials, souvenirs, and local handicrafts.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport features a lounge. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere and enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, although the session time may be limited. Special charging stations and sockets are provided for electronic devices, located in various parts of the waiting hall.

ATMs are installed in the airport for cash withdrawals. A currency exchange counter may be absent, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance. In case of need, the terminal has a medical room ready to provide first aid. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped, where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs and special assistance during boarding and disembarking are provided. To receive this service, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance. There are no hotels directly on the airport premises; however, in the city of Gwalior nearby, you can find many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget.

Specialised conference rooms or business centres are generally absent at Gwalior Airport. Business travellers are advised to use the business centre facilities in city hotels for meetings or work.

Gwalior Airport (GWL), being primarily a regional transport hub, offers passengers a basic but sufficient selection of dining establishments. Do not expect the variety found in major international airports here, but you will not go hungry. The main food outlets are concentrated in the general terminal hall, accessible to both departing passengers and visitors.

In the landside area (before security check), you will find several small cafes and snack bars. Here you can order coffee, tea, soft drinks, as well as fresh pastries, sandwiches, and packaged snacks. This is the best place for a more substantial lunch or a leisurely wait for a flight. In the airside area (after security), the selection is usually more modest and limited to a kiosk with drinks and light snacks—an ideal option to grab something to take on board.

Try to look out for local cuisine dishes if they are on the menu. Sometimes in airports in India, you can find popular snacks such as samosas (fried pastries with vegetable filling) or kachori. This is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the region's gastronomy right before departure. regarding dietary preferences, vegetarian dishes are very easy to find here. Vegan, gluten-free, or specific Halal options might be more challenging to find, so passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to check ingredients on-site or carry their own snacks.

Prices in Gwalior Airport establishments are moderate by airport standards but noticeably higher than in the city itself. Opening hours of cafes and kiosks are generally tied to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last plane departs, ensuring service for all passengers.

Arrival Time: Gwalior Airport (IATA: GWL) is relatively small, but as with any airport in India, it is better to arrive with time to spare. It is recommended to arrive 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time is sufficient to calmly complete all formalities without unnecessary rushing.

Check-in and Security: To enter the terminal, you may require a printed ticket or its electronic version and an ID card. The process of flight check-in and baggage drop is standard. Security checkpoints may have separate queues for men and women, which is common practice in the country. Be prepared to remove outer clothing and take electronics out of your hand luggage.

Seat Selection: To get your desired seat, try to check in online as soon as it opens (usually 24-48 hours before departure). Window seats offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats allow you to stand up freely and exit the aircraft first.

Hand Luggage: Standard rules prohibit carrying liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, sharp objects, and flammable substances. All liquids must be packed in a single transparent bag. Power banks are usually allowed only in hand luggage, so check your airline's rules in advance.

Connecting Passengers: Gwalior mainly serves domestic flights. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit airport. Leave enough time between connecting flights, especially if they are operated by different airlines.

Customs Control: There is no customs control on domestic flights. If you are arriving on an international flight with a transfer in another Indian city, you will likely pass through customs formalities at the first airport of arrival.

Saving Time and Money: The simplest way to save time is to check in for your flight online. To save money, book a taxi to the city via aggregator apps or use the pre-paid taxi counter; this is usually cheaper than negotiating with private drivers. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are higher, so it is better to eat beforehand.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and your rights (to drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation in case of a long delay). Since the airport is small, entertainment options are limited. Have a charged power bank, a book, or downloaded films with you to pass the waiting time.