Imphal Municipal Airport

Imphal Airport, officially known as Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, is the main aerial gateway to the picturesque state of Manipur. Nestled amidst lush green valleys, it not only serves a vital transport function but also holds a rich history: during World War II, it hosted a Royal Air Force base. Today, it is the second-largest and third-busiest airport in Northeast India, serving as a starting point for exploring the unique culture and nature of the region.

Despite its relatively small size, the airport in Imphal offers passengers everything needed for a comfortable journey. It plays a key role in connecting the state of Manipur with major cities in India, such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati, thanks to flights by leading local airlines. For traveller convenience, the terminal features ATMs, complimentary medical services, baby care rooms, and a tourist information centre where useful insights about the region can be obtained. The modern terminal building and well-organized processes make the airport experience a convenient and pleasant start or conclusion to a trip in this distinctive corner of the country.

Below you will find contact information for Imphal International Airport (Bir Tikendrajit), which may be useful when planning your trip.

• Official Website: www.aai.aero/en/airports/details/imphal
• Inquiry Desk Phone: +91-385-245-5069 (Airport Director's Office)
• Airport Address: Imphal International Airport, Imphal, Manipur 795140, India
• Email: apd.imphal@aai.aero
• Social Media: Currently, the airport does not maintain active separate social media pages. It is recommended to follow news on the official Airports Authority of India (AAI) website.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's support service directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and support, you may use the phone number and email address listed above.

Getting to Bir Tikendrajit International Airport (IMF), the main aviation hub of Imphal, is quite simple as it is located just 8 kilometres south of the city centre. The journey usually takes 20 to 30 minutes; however, this time may increase during peak hours. Depending on your budget and preferences, there are several convenient ways to reach the terminal.

Taxis and Auto-rickshaws are the most popular and reliable way to get to the airport. You can easily find a taxi anywhere in the city. For greater cost predictability, it is recommended to use prepaid taxi services or agree on the fare in advance. A more budget-friendly and authentic option for India is to hire an auto-rickshaw. Although the ride will be less comfortable than a taxi, it will be significantly cheaper. The cost of a taxi ride from the city centre is usually moderate, while an auto-rickshaw is even lower.

Public Transport in the form of buses is not a reliable option for travelling to Imphal Airport. There are no specialized shuttles or direct routes to the terminal, and city buses can be overcrowded and unsuitable for travellers with luggage. There is also no metro or direct rail connection to the airport in the city.

If you prefer maximum freedom of movement, you can consider car rental. Services for both self-drive rentals and, more commonly, car rentals with a driver are available in Imphal. This is an excellent option if you plan to visit other places before your flight. For those driving to the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is available on the airport premises for both short-term and long-term stays.

Our Tip: To avoid stress, allow a little extra time for the journey to the airport, especially if your flight is during morning or evening hours. A taxi remains the optimal choice for the balance of price, speed, and comfort. Always confirm the trip cost before setting off to avoid misunderstandings.

Imphal Airport (IMF), officially known as Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, is a modern and compact aviation hub. It consists of one integrated terminal that serves both domestic and some international flights. Thanks to its well-thought-out structure, navigation through the airport is intuitive and does not cause difficulties for travellers.

The terminal layout is quite simple. The building is divided into two main zones: departures and arrivals. Since all operations are concentrated in one place, passengers do not need to worry about transfers between terminals—there are none. All infrastructure is within walking distance, making movement around the airport fast and convenient.

The Departure Zone is located on one level and includes airline check-in counters, a security checkpoint, and a spacious waiting hall with boarding gates. Here you will also find several small shops where you can buy souvenirs and travel essentials, as well as cafes offering light snacks and beverages. The Arrival Zone is equipped with baggage claim belts and an exit to the general hall, where passengers are met and taxi services are available.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Imphal Airport usually takes little time. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time is generally sufficient for a calm check-in and security screening. During peak hours or the tourist season, small queues are possible, so it is better to have a time buffer.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the clear signage in English and Hindi. The airport staff is friendly and always ready to help if questions arise. Thanks to the compact size and logical layout, you will easily find your way from the building entrance to the boarding gate.

The history of Imphal Airport (IMF), officially known as Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, dates back to World War II. It was built in 1942 as a strategic military airfield for the Royal Air Force (RAF) as part of the Burma Campaign. Its initial purpose was purely military—supporting Allied operations in the region.

A key moment in the airport's history was the Battle of Imphal in 1944, one of the most significant battles in the Asia-Pacific theatre of war. The airfield became a vital hub for supplying troops by air and evacuating the wounded, playing a decisive role in the outcome of the battle. This period forever inscribed the airport into the annals of military history.

After the war ended, the airfield was handed over to the civil authorities of India and began its transformation into the main air hub of Manipur state. It gradually developed to serve the growing passenger traffic and cargo transport, connecting this remote region with the rest of the country.

A significant stage of modernization began in the 21st century. A new integrated terminal was built, which significantly increased capacity and comfort for passengers. A major milestone in development was the granting of international status on June 23, 2013. This opened new opportunities for direct flights to neighbouring countries. Later, the airport was named in honour of Bir Tikendrajit, a prince of Manipur and a freedom fighter.

Today, Imphal Airport is the second busiest in Northeast India after Guwahati. It serves not only as an important aerial gateway for tourists and locals but also stands as a living monument to its rich and heroic history, harmoniously blending the past with modern aviation technologies.

Imphal Airport (IMF) offers passengers a set of basic services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, here you will find everything necessary for a calm start or end to your journey through Manipur state.

The terminal houses several cafes and eateries where you can have coffee, a snack, or buy beverages for the road. There are also small shops offering essentials, press, and local souvenirs that will serve as a great reminder of your trip to India. For those seeking greater comfort, there are waiting lounges in the airport, and VIP areas with additional services may be available for premium-class passengers.

Staying connected is easy: free Wi-Fi is available within the terminal, and numerous charging stations will allow you to power up your electronic devices. For financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange counters are at the service of travellers, where necessary transactions can be conducted before departure or upon arrival.

The airport cares for all categories of passengers. In case of need, one can visit the medical centre for first aid. Families with small children will appreciate the presence of a mother and child room. For passengers with reduced mobility, ramps, specially equipped toilets, and assistance services are provided, which are recommended to be booked in advance through the airline.

Although there are no hotels within the airport grounds, several hotels and guest houses are located in the immediate vicinity. For business travellers, opportunities for holding meetings are limited, but essential business services may be available in nearby hotels.

Imphal Airport (IMF) offers passengers several basic but convenient options for a snack before departure. Although the selection of establishments here is not as vast as in the major hubs of India, you will be able to find everything you need. Most food outlets, including small cafes like Classic Cafe and snack kiosks, are concentrated in the main terminal building, making them easily accessible.

For a quick bite, sandwiches, pastries, and soft drinks are perfect. If you have more time, you can order more substantial meals. This is a wonderful opportunity to have a last-minute taste of Manipur region cuisine: look out for Momo (steamed dumplings) or Thukpa (rich noodle soup) if they appear on the menu. Of course, classic Indian curries with rice are always available.

Finding vegetarian dishes is usually not a problem, which is typical for most establishments in India. However, if you follow a vegan, gluten-free, or Halal diet, choices may be limited. It is recommended to verify the ingredients directly with the cafe staff, as specialized menus are generally absent here.

The main food outlets are located in the public area (landside), accessible before passing security control, and there are also a few small kiosks in the departure zone (airside). Opening hours are usually aligned with the flight schedule. It is worth noting that prices here may be slightly higher than in the city, which is standard practice for airports.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Imphal city goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, take advantage of our tips. Proper preparation will help avoid stress and save both time and money.

Arrival Time: Although Imphal Airport is not among the largest in India, it is better not to take risks. We recommend arriving 2-3 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient to calmly pass all pre-flight formalities, even if small queues arise.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way is to complete online check-in, which usually opens 24-48 hours before departure. This allows you to avoid queues at the counters. Security checkpoints in Indian airports can be quite thorough. Be prepared in advance to remove laptops, tablets, power banks, and liquid containers from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection: If the airline allows you to select a seat in advance, take this opportunity. Window seats offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats provide more legroom and the freedom to stand up without disturbing neighbours.

Hand Luggage: Sharp objects, flammable substances, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml are prohibited in hand luggage (all liquids must be packed in one transparent bag). Power banks and other lithium batteries, conversely, must be carried specifically in hand luggage and not in checked baggage.

Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, check at registration whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage in Imphal. Calculate your transfer time with a buffer, especially if flights are operated by different airlines.

Customs Control: This procedure is relevant for international flights. Familiarize yourself with India's customs regulations in advance to know which goods must be declared. Keep all necessary documents at hand to speed up the process.

Saving Time and Money: To save money, book a taxi or transfer to/from the airport online in advance. Bring an empty reusable water bottle—after passing security, you can fill it at drinking fountains without buying overpriced water. The most effective way to save time is to travel light with only hand luggage.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and your rights (for example, to beverages, food, or hotel accommodation). It is useful to have a portable charger, a book, or downloaded movies in your hand luggage to while away the wait.