Cochin International Airport

Cochin International Airport (COK), also known as Nedumbassery Airport, is more than just an air gateway to the picturesque state of Kerala. It is the world's first airport fully powered by solar energy, for which it was honoured with the prestigious UN "Champion of the Earth" award in 2018. Its terminals, built in the traditional architectural style of Kerala, blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape, giving travellers a sense of hospitality even before they reach Kochi itself.

The main pride of Cochin Airport is its commitment to "green" technologies. The total installed capacity of its solar power plants is 50 MW, which more than covers all the airport's energy needs and allows surplus energy to be sold to the state grid. For its innovative projects in sustainable energy, the airport regularly receives international awards, confirming its status as a leader in environmentally responsible aviation.

For the convenience of passengers, the airport operates three modern terminals: two serve domestic and international flights, while the third is dedicated to business aviation. The architecture of the terminals reflects the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, creating a unique atmosphere. The airport is one of the busiest in India in terms of international traffic and serves flights from over 25 airlines worldwide.

Below is the essential contact information for communicating with Cochin Airport representatives.

• Official Website: cial.aero
• Helpline Number: +91 484 2610115 (24/7)
• Address: Airport Rd, Kochi, Kerala 683111, India
• Email for General Enquiries: pro@cial.aero
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on their official pages on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram.
• Lost Baggage Information: In case of lost baggage, you should primarily contact your airline's representative. For questions regarding items left in the terminal, you can email: lostandfound@cial.aero
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance or consultation, please use the 24-hour helpline number +91 484 2610115.

Cochin International Airport (COK) is located approximately 30 kilometres northeast of the city centre of Kochi. There are several ways to reach it, each offering different advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences. This modern transport hub of Kerala is well-connected to the city and neighbouring regions.

Public Transport is the most economical way to reach the airport. Special air-conditioned buses run by the state company KSRTC operate on several routes, connecting the airport with key city points such as Fort Kochi, the Vyttila mobility hub, and railway stations. A bus ride is not only cheap but also an opportunity to observe local life. Stops are located right outside the terminal exits. The ticket price is significantly lower than a taxi, but be prepared that the journey may take longer due to stops.

The nearest Metro station is Aluva, located about 10-12 kilometres from the airport. From there, you can reach the terminals by bus or auto-rickshaw, which takes about 20-30 minutes. This option is convenient if you wish to avoid city traffic for most of the journey. The nearest railway stations are Aluva and Angamaly, making the airport accessible for travellers arriving in Kochi by train from other parts of India.

Taxis and Transfers are the most comfortable and fastest method. Right in the arrivals hall, you will find pre-paid taxi counters. This is a highly recommended option, as the price is fixed based on the destination, eliminating the need to bargain. A trip to the city centre, for example to Fort Kochi, will take between 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic conditions. You can also use app-based services like Uber or Ola, but be sure to check the pick-up location, as specific zones may be designated for them.

For those who prefer maximum freedom of movement, car rental services operate at the airport. Renting a car is an excellent choice if you plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of Kerala on your own. However, please consider the specifics of local traffic. If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, a spacious car park is at your service, offering both short-term and long-term parking options at reasonable rates.

To summarise: for budget travel, choose KSRTC buses. For maximum comfort and predictable costs, choose a pre-paid taxi. A compromise option, combining the speed of the metro and the affordability of local transport, would be a trip to Aluva station followed by a transfer. In any case, allow extra time for the journey, especially during peak hours, to avoid rushing before your flight.

Cochin International Airport (COK) consists of three main terminals, each with a clear purpose, making navigation quite simple for passengers. Two terminals serve commercial flights, while the third is dedicated to private aviation.

Terminal 3 (T3) is the main and newest terminal, serving all international flights. It is a massive and modern building, with architecture inspired by traditional Kerala motifs. Inside, you will find spacious departure and arrival halls, numerous duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and business lounges. Passport control and customs procedures are concentrated here and are organised quite efficiently.

Terminal 1 (T1) is entirely dedicated to domestic flights within India. Previously serving as the international terminal, it has been completely renovated and modernised. It is significantly smaller than T3 but is very functional and convenient. It has everything necessary for a comfortable wait: check-in counters, a security zone, several dining establishments, and shops.

Terminal 2 (T2) is the oldest and smallest terminal, currently used to serve private and business jets, so most tourists will not need it.

Navigating Kochi airport is easy. Terminals T1 and T3 are located in separate buildings but are in close proximity to each other, just a few hundred metres apart. You can easily move between them on foot via a specially equipped covered walkway, which takes no more than 5-7 minutes. Signs in English and Malayalam are clear and highly visible, helping you quickly find the right entrance, check-in counter, or boarding gate.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance to complete all formalities. For international flights from Terminal 3, allow about 2.5-3 hours before departure, especially during peak hours. For domestic flights from Terminal 1, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient. Queues for check-in and security screening generally move quickly, but extra time will help avoid unnecessary stress.

The history of Cochin International Airport is a unique example of how private initiative and investment can transform the infrastructure of an entire region. Before its inception, civil flights to Kochi were handled at a small naval airbase on Willingdon Island, which could no longer cope with the growing passenger traffic. In 1991, a decision was made to build a new, modern airport. The uniqueness of the project lay in its funding model: it was the first airport in India built under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), with the primary investors being around 10,000 Indian expatriates from over 30 countries.

After several years of planning and construction, the airport was inaugurated on 25 May 1999. This event marked a turning point for the state of Kerala, opening it up to a greater number of international tourists and strengthening economic ties. From the very beginning, the airport was designed with future expansion in mind, allowing it to eventually become one of the busiest in the country.

The airport's crowning achievement and hallmark became its environmental initiative. In August 2015, Cochin International Airport made world history by becoming the first airport in the world to operate entirely on solar energy. To achieve this, a massive solar farm was built on its premises, which not only covers all the airport's electricity needs but also supplies surplus power to the state's general grid. For this outstanding achievement, the UN awarded the airport its highest environmental honour in 2018 — "Champion of the Earth".

The airport is constantly evolving. A significant milestone was the massive modernisation and expansion, culminating in the opening of the new International Terminal (Terminal 3) in 2017. It significantly increased capacity and comfort levels for passengers. In 2018, the airport faced a serious challenge — severe flooding in Kerala led to its temporary closure for nearly two weeks. However, the rapid and coordinated infrastructure recovery work demonstrated high management efficiency and resilience to emergencies.

Kochi International Airport (COK) is one of the most modern and convenient in India, offering travellers a full range of services for a comfortable wait. In the terminals, you will find a wide selection of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy both authentic Kerala cuisine and familiar international dishes. For those planning to shop, numerous stores are available, including large Duty Free zones offering perfumes, souvenirs, and local products.

For passengers preferring privacy and enhanced comfort, the airport operates business lounges and VIP lounges, accessible to business class passengers as well as to all travellers for a fee. To stay connected, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminals. Numerous convenient charging stations are provided for electronic devices.

To handle practical matters, the airport features bank branches, 24-hour ATMs, and currency exchange counters. In case of feeling unwell, medical centres are available on the premises, ready to provide first aid. Families with children can use specially equipped mother and child rooms, where they can care for their little ones in a quiet environment.

The airport is fully adapted for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, lifts, and special restrooms are available. Assistance services are also provided. For business travellers, conference halls and business centres are equipped. And if you require a long rest, a hotel is located right opposite the terminal, offering comfortable rooms for transit passengers.

At Cochin International Airport (COK), travellers can expect a wide selection of establishments to grab a snack or have a full meal before departure. Here, you will find outlets offering traditional Kerala cuisine as well as familiar international formats, catering to every taste and budget.

In the International Terminal (T3), especially in the departure area after passing passport control (airside), the majority of restaurants and cafes are concentrated. Here you will find food courts with diverse dishes, coffee shops from well-known chains, and restaurants offering both Indian and European cuisine. In the public area (landside), there are also several cafes where you can have coffee and a snack while seeing off or welcoming passengers.

Once at Kochi Airport, be sure to try local dishes. Look for places serving Masala Dosa (a crispy crepe with potato filling), Idli (steamed rice cakes) with sambar sauce, or Appam (lacy rice flour pancakes). This is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the gastronomy of India even before you leave the airport. For a quick bite, local snacks like the famous banana chips are ideal.

There are plenty of options for passengers with special dietary needs. Kerala cuisine is rich in vegetarian and vegan dishes, so finding suitable food will not be difficult. Halal options are also widely available, though it is recommended to verify directly with the restaurant. Gluten-free dishes might be harder to find due to the risk of cross-contamination, but rice-based dishes are generally safe.

Prices range from budget eateries to mid-range restaurants. Most establishments in the international departure zone operate around the clock or have extended hours to serve passengers on night and morning flights. If you are short on time, pop into one of the coffee shops for a sandwich and coffee. If time permits, settle in at one of the food court restaurants and order a Thali — a set meal consisting of several dishes that allows you to appreciate the full variety of local flavours.

Travelling through Cochin International Airport, located in the city of Kochi, will be significantly easier and more pleasant if you prepare in advance. The airport is known for its modern infrastructure and the fact that it runs entirely on solar energy. To ensure your experience is as positive as possible, make use of our tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, arrive at the airport 3-4 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 2-2.5 hours in advance. This time will be sufficient to go through all formalities without rushing, including potential queues at the terminal entrance where tickets and documents are checked. Use online check-in to save time, but remember that baggage must still be dropped off at a separate counter. In airports in India, there are often separate queues for men and women at security checks; please be prepared for this.

Baggage and Hand Luggage: Carefully review your airline's rules. Standard prohibitions for hand luggage include sharp objects, liquids over 100 ml in a single container, and flammable substances. Pay special attention to electronic devices: power banks (external batteries) can only be carried in hand luggage; placing them in checked baggage is strictly prohibited.

Customs Control and Transfers: When entering the country, if you have no goods to declare, feel free to go through the "Green Channel". If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and pass through customs. Passengers with long layovers should enquire about the availability of transit hotels or rest rooms directly at the airport.

Saving Money and Delays: To save money, book taxis via official pre-paid counters in the arrivals hall — this helps avoid inflated prices. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information on flight status and possible compensation (water, meals). The airport offers free Wi-Fi and numerous cafes where you can wait comfortably.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane: A small tip for lovers of beautiful views: when flying out of or landing in Kochi, try to choose a window seat. In clear weather, stunning panoramas of Kerala's green landscapes may open up to you. An aisle seat, in turn, will give you more legroom and allow you to disembark first upon arrival.