Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is not merely a gateway to Kolkata, but one of the oldest and most significant aviation hubs in Eastern India. With a rich history dating back to 1924, it has witnessed many landmark events in global aviation. Today, it is a modern complex that harmoniously blends historical heritage with cutting-edge technology, serving as a starting point for millions of travellers eager to explore India's cultural capital.

The airport, named after a prominent Indian independence fighter, is a key hub for many airlines and offers flights across the country and abroad. The new integrated terminal, opened in 2013, has significantly improved comfort and capacity, making the journey through Kolkata even more pleasant.

One of the main features of the airport is its single integrated terminal, which handles both domestic and international flights, making transfers very convenient. The terminal building has an L-shape and features modern architecture. For passenger convenience, numerous facilities are provided: from baby care rooms and a medical centre to VIP lounges and designated smoking areas. Additionally, golf carts are available at the airport for passengers with reduced mobility and the elderly, highlighting the commitment to the comfort of every traveller.

For your convenience, we have compiled key contact information for Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport (CCU). We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: www.aai.aero/en/airports/kolkata
• Helpline Number: +91 33 2511 8036, +91 33 2569 1002 (Terminal Manager)
• Address: Jessore Road, Dum Dum, Kolkata, West Bengal 700052, India
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the Airport Director's office email — apdkolkata@aai.aero
• Social Media: Official X (formerly Twitter) account — @aaikolairport
• Lost Baggage Information: For issues regarding lost checked baggage, please contact your airline directly. To trace items left within the terminal building, contact the Lost & Found department at +91 9674722542 or via email at lostfound.kol@aai.aero.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and enquiries, you may use the general airport helpline numbers.

Reaching Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), the main aviation hub of Kolkata, is possible via several methods suitable for any budget and comfort level. The airport is located approximately 17 kilometres northeast of the city centre, and travel time can vary significantly depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions in India.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) offers comfortable air-conditioned buses (AC Volvo) that ply on numerous routes, connecting the airport with key city points such as Esplanade, Howrah Station, and Tollygunge. Furthermore, the airport is directly connected to the city's metro system via the Biman Bandar station on the Orange Line, allowing for a quick, traffic-free journey to the centre. For the most budget-friendly trips, one can use suburban trains that stop at the railway station of the same name near the terminal.

Taxis and Private Transfers offer greater convenience. Directly in the arrivals terminal, you will find Pre-paid Taxi counters where you can book a car at a fixed rate, eliminating the need to bargain. Popular mobile apps like Uber and Ola Cabs also operate actively in the city, offering rides at competitive prices. For maximum comfort, especially if travelling with family or a large amount of luggage, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental and Parking. Car rental services are available at the airport; however, it is worth noting that traffic in Kolkata is very dense and chaotic, so this option is recommended only for experienced drivers. For those arriving in their own or rented vehicle, a large multi-level car park is available on the airport premises, offering both short-term and long-term rates.

Travel Time and Recommendations. On average, the journey from the city centre to the airport takes 45 to 90 minutes. It is strongly recommended to allow extra time for the journey, especially during morning and evening peak hours. The Metro is an excellent way to avoid traffic jams, while buses and taxis offer an opportunity to see more of the city along the way.

Kolkata is a vital transport hub for all of Eastern India and neighbouring countries. From the region, you can also reach other airports, including Jashore Airport (JSR) in Bangladesh, the domestic Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport (RDP) in Durgapur, as well as other Bangladeshi airports such as Barisal Airport (BZL), Shah Makhdum Airport (RJH), and the country's largest, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka.

Kolkata Airport, known as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport (CCU), has undergone significant modernisation. Today, all passenger flights — both domestic and international — are handled in one large and modern building. Old terminals are no longer used for regular passenger operations, which greatly simplifies navigation for travellers.

The heart of the airport is the Integrated Terminal (Terminal 2). This is a massive L-shaped building designed for passenger convenience. The layout is quite intuitive: the Arrivals Area is located on the lower level (ground floor), and the Departures Area is on the upper level. Since all operations are concentrated under one roof, you won't have to worry about transferring or moving between terminals.

In the Departures Area on the upper floor, you will find check-in counters grouped by airline. After check-in, passengers proceed to the common security check zone. Further on, the terminal splits into two wings: one for Domestic flights, the other for International flights. Passengers on international flights must additionally clear passport (immigration) control. The Arrivals Area on the ground floor includes baggage reclaim belts, customs control, as well as exits to pre-paid taxi counters and pick-up zones for popular services like Uber and Ola.

To avoid rushing, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance. For domestic flights, allow at least 1.5–2 hours before departure. For international flights, it is better to arrive 3–4 hours early, especially if your flight falls during peak morning or evening hours when queues for check-in and security can be longer.

Despite the terminal's large size, navigating it is fairly simple thanks to numerous signs in English, Hindi, and Bengali. Information screens with up-to-date flight data are located throughout the building — be sure to check them, as gate numbers may change. If you have any questions, feel free to approach the staff at the information desks. Please note that the walk to distant gates may take 10-15 minutes, so do not leave boarding until the last moment.

The history of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport, one of the oldest in India, dates back to 1924. Initially, it was known as the Calcutta Aerodrome and served as a vital point on air routes connecting Europe and Australia. From its very first days, it played a key role in the development of aviation in the region.

During World War II, the airfield, then named Dum Dum, acquired strategic importance. It was used as a major airbase for the Royal Air Force and the United States Army Air Forces participating in operations on the Burma front. This period contributed to the significant expansion of runways and infrastructure, laying the foundation for post-war development.

After the country gained independence, the airport became the main aerial gateway for the entire eastern part of the nation. An important step in its history was its renaming in 1995 in honour of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose — a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. This event highlighted the national significance of the airport.

The most massive transformation in the airport's modern history occurred in 2013 with the opening of the new integrated terminal. This modern complex, known for its unique architecture inspired by the works of Rabindranath Tagore, replaced the old terminals. The new infrastructure significantly increased capacity and raised the level of passenger service, making Kolkata airport one of the most important transport hubs in South Asia.

Kolkata Airport offers a wide range of services to make your stay here as comfortable as possible, whether you are arriving, departing, or transiting. All necessary infrastructure meeting modern standards is available for passengers.

In the terminal, you will find numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries where you can have a quick snack or a full meal. Establishments serving local Indian and international cuisine are present. Additionally, shops are at your service, including Duty Free with a large selection of perfumes and souvenirs, as well as book and gift shops.

For those who value enhanced comfort, waiting lounges and VIP lounges operate at the airport. In these, you can relax in a quiet atmosphere and enjoy complimentary beverages, snacks, and access to newspapers. Access to lounges is usually provided to business class passengers, airline loyalty card holders, or for a fee.

Staying connected is easy: free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous power outlets and special charging stations are provided for gadgets. For financial matters, bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange counters are available. In case of emergency, you can visit the medical centre, which operates around the clock.

Travellers with children can use the mother and child care rooms, equipped with everything necessary for looking after little ones. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance in moving around the airport, including wheelchairs and specially equipped washrooms. It is recommended to book assistance services in advance through your airline.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels of various price categories are located near the airport. For business travellers, some lounges feature business zones where you can work in silence.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport (CCU) can pleasantly surprise you with its choice of establishments, reflecting the status of Kolkata as one of the gastronomic centres of India. Here you will find options for every taste and budget, both for those rushing to a flight and for passengers with time to spare. The main dining spots are concentrated in the integrated terminal (serving both domestic and international flights).

For a full lunch or dinner, it is best to head to the food court located in the departure area after security (airside). Here, corners with various cuisines are presented: from North Indian to Chinese and Continental. This is an excellent opportunity to try dishes of the famous Bengali cuisine. Look out for items such as fish cutlets (*macher chop*), biryani, or traditional sweets like *mishti doi* (sweet yoghurt). Besides the food court, there are several à la carte restaurants in the terminal.

If time is short, numerous options for a quick snack are at your service. The airport hosts both international coffee chains, where you can grab coffee and pastries, and local cafes offering sandwiches, rolls, and Indian street food in an adapted format. Such establishments are scattered throughout the terminal, including the arrivals area and the general public area before security (landside).

Special attention is paid to dietary preferences. Since vegetarianism is widespread, you will easily find establishments marked "Pure Veg", where even eggs are not used. Many restaurants offer vegan and Halal dishes; however, for certainty, it is better to check the ingredients with the staff. Most key establishments operate 24/7 or follow a flexible schedule adjusted to flight timings.

The price range at Kolkata airport varies. A quick snack at a chain cafe will cost relatively little, while a full dinner in a restaurant will be priced on par with average city establishments. Overall, every traveller will be able to find a suitable option to refresh themselves before their flight.

To ensure your journey from Kolkata airport begins without unnecessary stress, there are a few points to consider. Planning ahead will help make your experience as comfortable as possible and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 3-4 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 2-3 hours. This will give you a sufficient buffer in case of queues. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this facility. Remember that at Indian airports, you are often required to show your ticket or boarding pass to enter the terminal building.

Security Checks and Seat Selection: Be prepared for security checks to be quite thorough. Remove laptops and other large gadgets from your hand luggage in advance. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat is ideal for those who love admiring views, while an aisle seat offers more freedom to move around the cabin.

Hand Luggage: Standard international rules apply here too: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Important nuance: portable chargers (power banks) must be carried only in hand luggage; checking them in with baggage is prohibited.

Transit Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, follow the signs for "Transfers" / "Connecting Flights". When transferring from an international flight to a domestic one, you will likely need to clear passport control, collect your luggage, and check it in again for the next flight. Confirm this procedure with your airline.

Customs Control: Upon arriving in the country from abroad, you may need to fill out a declaration. If you have no goods to declare, proceed through the "Green Channel". If you are carrying something that needs to be declared, or are simply unsure, choose the "Red Channel" to avoid fines.

Saving Time and Money: Besides online check-in, pre-booking a taxi or using public transport can help save money. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are traditionally higher, so you can carry an empty water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security.

In Case of Flight Delay: The main thing is to remain calm. Regularly check information on departure boards and contact your airline representatives for clarifications. Depending on the length of the delay, the carrier is obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, and for long waits — hotel accommodation.