Keshod

Keshod Airport (IATA: IXK) is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the world of wildlife and the spiritual heritage of the state of Gujarat. Located near the famous Gir National Park, home to the last Asiatic lions, and the sacred Somnath Temple, this airport serves as the starting point for unforgettable adventures. Following the resumption of scheduled flights in 2022, the airport has significantly simplified access to these unique attractions of India. It is a compact and modern airport, focused on the comfort of tourists arriving to explore the treasures of the region.

The main feature of Keshod Airport is its strategic location. It was modernised under the Indian government's UDAN scheme, aimed at developing regional aviation and improving accessibility to remote areas. Thanks to this, travellers can now quickly and comfortably reach the city of Junagadh and the Arabian Sea coast. Authorities plan further development of the airport, including the construction of a new terminal, which promises an even higher level of service in the future. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a key role in the region's tourism infrastructure, offering a convenient start for exploring amazing Gujarat.

• Official Website: www.aai.aero/en/airports/keshod. Here you will find flight schedules, news, and general information about the airport.
• Helpline Phone: +91-2871-235777. It is recommended to call during working hours.
• Airport Address: Airport Road, Keshod, Gujarat, 362220, India.
• Email: apc_vaks@aai.aero (Airport Manager's office).
• Social Media: Currently, Keshod Airport does not have official pages on social networks. You can follow news on the general website of the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
• Lost Luggage Information: For questions regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline directly. Contact details for the airline representative can usually be found on their official website or on your boarding pass.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general enquiries and passenger support, you can use the main airport helpline number.

Getting to Keshod Airport (IXK) from the city centre of Keshod is quite simple, as it is located very close by. Depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions, the journey usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The main modes of transport in this part of India are local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and private vehicles.

Public transport in the conventional sense is poorly developed here. There is no metro or extensive city bus network in Keshod that goes directly to the airport. The most popular and authentic option is the auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk). This is a fast and very budget-friendly way to get to the terminal. A trip by auto-rickshaw from the city centre will take about 20-25 minutes. Although intercity buses of the state company GSRTC pass through the town, they are not a convenient option for travelling to the airport, as their stops may be at a significant distance from the entrance.

A more comfortable method is to book a taxi. You can find a car at designated stands in the city or ask your hotel staff to assist with calling one. The cost of the trip will be higher than an auto-rickshaw, but you will get more luggage space and comfort. Ride-hailing apps like Uber or Ola may be available, but their operation in small towns can be unstable, so it is better to have a backup plan. Also popular is the pre-booked transfer service, often offered by hotels.

If you prefer to move around independently, you can consider car rental. In India, renting a car with a driver is more common, which saves you the need to navigate local traffic rules. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided on the airport grounds. It is suitable for both short-term and long-term parking.

Recommendations and Costs:

• Auto-rickshaw: The most economical option, ideal for light travellers. The fare is very low, but always agree on the price with the driver in advance.
• Taxi: A good balance between price and comfort, suitable for families and travellers with large luggage.
• Transfer: The most convenient and hassle-free, but also the most expensive option.

Always allow a little extra time for the journey to avoid rushing before your flight.

Keshod Airport (IXK) is a small and modern regional airport distinguished by a simple and clear structure. It consists of one passenger terminal serving all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to its compact size, navigating here is very easy, and you won't have to worry about long walks or complex layouts.

All infrastructure is concentrated in one building. Immediately upon entry, you find yourself in the common area where check-in counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, behind which lies a small waiting hall with a boarding gate. The arrival area is equally simple: after disembarking from the aircraft, you go straight to the baggage claim hall, and from there — to the airport exit. Navigation is intuitive, with signs in English and local languages everywhere.

One of the main advantages of Keshod Airport is the speedy completion of all formalities. Due to low passenger traffic, flight check-in and security screening usually take minimum time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport standardly 1.5-2 hours before departure to go through all procedures without haste, especially during peak hours.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, there is no need for transfers between buildings. All services are within walking distance of each other. The main advice for travellers is simply to follow the signs. Even if you are here for the first time, you will easily find your way from the terminal entrance to the boarding gate. The compactness of the airport makes it ideal for those who value time and dislike the bustle of large aviation hubs.

The history of Keshod Airport (IXK) dates back to the 1930s and is inextricably linked with the era of the last Nawab of the princely state of Junagadh, Muhammad Mahabat Khanji III. Initially, it was a private airfield built for the monarch's personal needs and to receive his guests. This fact gives the air harbour a special historical flair, reminding us of times when aviation was accessible only to the chosen few.

After India gained independence and the princely state was integrated, the airfield came under the management of the Airports Authority of India (AAI). In the 1980s, it briefly became commercial, serving flights for the regional airline Vayudoot. However, shortly after, the airport was closed to scheduled flights and fell into obscurity for decades, awaiting its moment.

The revival of the airport became possible thanks to the government's regional aviation development programme UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik). As part of this project, extensive modernisation was carried out: a new passenger terminal was built, and the runway and associated infrastructure were upgraded. The key goal of the reconstruction was to improve access to two major tourist magnets of the region — Gir National Park, the only habitat of Asiatic lions, and the famous Somnath Temple.

In March 2022, the triumphant return of Keshod Airport to the country's aviation map took place. It reopened for commercial flights, the first of which was a route from Mumbai. This event was a significant achievement, breathing new life into the region's economy and tourism industry. Today, IXK serves as a convenient aerial gateway for travellers from all over the world seeking to discover the treasures of the state of Gujarat.

Keshod Airport (IXK), being an important regional transport hub, provides passengers with all essential services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is designed to ensure the convenience and safety of every traveller.

For passengers, there are small snack counters and cafes where you can have a bite before departure, as well as a few shops with essentials and souvenirs. Although the selection of establishments and retail outlets is limited, you can purchase beverages, snacks, and useful travel items here. There are no specialised VIP lounges at the airport, but comfortable waiting areas are equipped for all passengers.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your flight. Charging stations for mobile devices are provided for passenger convenience. ATMs are installed at the airport for cash withdrawals; however, full currency exchange services may be limited, so it is recommended to arrange this in advance.

To ensure the safety and health of travellers, a medical point is operational at the airport, ready to provide first aid. Passengers with small children can use the mother and child room. The airport is also equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: assistance is provided for moving around the terminal, including wheelchairs, and specially equipped restrooms are available.

There are no hotels directly on the airport premises, but the nearest hotels can be found in the city of Keshod, which is easily accessible by taxi. Specialised business centres and conference halls are absent in the terminal, as the airport is primarily focused on serving passenger flights.

When planning a flight through Keshod Airport (IXK), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Unlike large international hubs, you will not find a variety of restaurants and cafes here. Nevertheless, basic options for a snack before departure are usually available.

Typically, one or several small kiosks or snack bars operate within the terminal building. They are located in the common area before security control (landside). Here you can buy packaged snacks, such as chips, biscuits, sandwiches, as well as soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee. This is a good option for a quick snack if you are short on time.

Although there are no full-service restaurants with hot meals at the airport, sometimes you can find local specialities in such small outlets. Look out for traditional Gujarati snacks, for example, packaged khakhra or thepla. Regarding dietary needs, finding vegetarian snacks in the state of Gujarat is effortless. However, specialised vegan, gluten-free, or specific Halal dishes are likely to be unavailable.

Prices at the airport are generally slightly higher than in the city but remain affordable. It is important to remember that food outlets do not operate around the clock, and their schedule is usually tied to flight departure and arrival times. Therefore, if you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, it is strongly recommended to eat beforehand in the city of Keshod or bring food with you, especially if you have strict dietary restrictions.

Travelling through Keshod Airport, serving the city of the same name and surrounding areas in India, can be simple and convenient if you know a few nuances. These tips will help you plan your trip and avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival time at the airport. Keshod Airport is small and serves mainly domestic flights. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before departure. This will give you enough time to calmly check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security screening without haste.

Check-in and Security. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides such an option. This will allow you to go straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint. Keep your identification document (e.g., passport) and boarding pass ready. Procedures at small airports usually go faster than at major hubs.

Seat Selection. If you have the opportunity to choose a seat, consider your preferences. A window seat (A or F) will offer you beautiful views of the Gujarat landscapes during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat (C or D) provides more freedom of movement and the chance to disembark first. Seats in the front of the cabin are usually the quietest and allow for a quicker exit upon arrival.

Hand Luggage. Standard rules for carrying liquids apply here too: all containers must be no more than 100 ml and packed in one transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. Always check the current requirements of your airline, as they may differ slightly.

Transit Passengers. If you are flying from Keshod with a connection in another Indian city, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be checked through automatically to the final destination. Leave a sufficient time margin between flights (at least 2-3 hours), especially if you have to transfer to another terminal at a large airport.

Customs Control. Since Keshod Airport serves domestic flights, customs control is absent for most passengers. However, if you arrive on a special international charter, you will need to go through standard customs procedures: fill out a declaration if you have goods subject to declaration, and be prepared for a possible luggage inspection.

Saving Time and Money. Book flight tickets and airport transfers in advance to get the best prices. To save money, bring an empty water bottle and fill it at a drinking fountain after passing security. Travelling with only hand luggage will not only save money on baggage fees but also significantly speed up your movement through the airport.

What to do if a flight is delayed? In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. The airport is small, so entertainment options are limited. Download movies to your phone in advance or bring a book to pass the time.