Gandhinagar Airport

Gandhinagar Airport (ISK), also known as Nashik International Airport, represents a unique combination of a civil aviation hub and an important air force base. Located approximately 20 km from the city of Nashik in the state of Maharashtra, India, it serves not only as a gateway for tourists but also as a strategic centre for aviation technology. The airport is owned by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and is used for the development and testing of aircraft for the Indian armed forces. The new passenger terminal, opened in 2014, ensures comfortable service for travellers, highlighting the growing importance of Nashik as a tourism and business hub of the region.

Despite its dual role, the airport in Nashik is focused on passenger convenience. The modern terminal is designed to handle approximately 300 people simultaneously, allowing travellers to avoid the hustle and long queues typical of major aviation hubs. The sole scheduled carrier is IndiGo, which connects Nashik with key Indian cities such as New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Goa. This makes the airport an excellent starting point for exploring Nashik, known as the "wine capital of India", as well as an important industrial and pilgrimage centre.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Gandhinagar Airport (ISK) in Nashik. We recommend verifying the accuracy of this data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: Information about the airport can be found on the Airports Authority of India (AAI) portal. Direct link: www.aai.aero/en/airports/details/nashik
• Helpline Phone: For general enquiries, you can call: +91-2550-277187.
• Airport Address: HAL, Ozar, Nashik, Maharashtra 422221, India.
• Email: To contact the airport administration, you may use the e-mail: apd_vnsk@aai.aero.
• Social Media: The airport may not have separate official pages. We recommend following news on the general accounts of the Airports Authority of India.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. If this does not help, you can contact the terminal services.
• Passenger Support Contacts: The main airport helpline number is used for passenger support.

You can reach Gandhinagar Airport (also known as Ozar Airport) from the city of Nashik via several methods suitable for different budgets and comfort levels. The airport is located approximately 20-25 kilometres from the city centre, and the journey usually takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic conditions. When planning your route, always allow extra time for traffic congestion, which is characteristic of roads in India.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. State buses operated by MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) run between the city and the airport. While inexpensive, buses can be crowded, and the schedule is not always convenient. There is no direct rail or metro connection to the terminal. The nearest major railway station is Nashik Road, from where you will need to take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the airport, which will take another 30-40 minutes.

Taxis, Auto-rickshaws, and Transfers are the most convenient and popular methods. Popular taxi services such as Ola and Uber operate in Nashik, offering comfortable rides at fixed prices via their apps. You can also use pre-paid taxi services directly from the city or book a private transfer. A more colourful but less comfortable option is the auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk). This method is suitable for those travelling light; ensure you agree on the price with the driver before the trip starts if the meter is not used.

Car Rental is a good choice for those who value independence and plan to travel around the region extensively. Both local and international car rental companies can be found in the city. Please note that an international driving permit may be required to drive in India, and the traffic itself can be quite chaotic for an unaccustomed tourist. A more convenient alternative is often renting a car with a driver. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, Gandhinagar Airport provides parking facilities where cars can be left for short or long periods.

Gandhinagar Airport (ISK), serving the city of Nashik and surrounding districts of India, is a modern and compact aviation hub. It consists of a single passenger terminal that handles both domestic and international (mostly charter) flights. Such a structure significantly simplifies navigation for travellers, as all processes—from check-in to baggage claim—take place in one building.

The terminal layout is intuitive and meets modern airport standards. The building generally has two main levels: the departure zone is located on the upper floor, and the arrival zone is on the ground floor. Since there is only one terminal, passengers do not need to worry about transferring between buildings or using shuttles; everything is within walking distance. Signs in English and Hindi help you orient yourself easily.

In the departure zone, you will find airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and a waiting lounge with boarding gates. Despite its modest size, basic amenities are available here, including small cafes and shops. The arrival zone includes baggage claim belts and customs control (for international flights). Immediately after exiting this zone, passengers enter the general hall where they can be met by others, and where taxi and car rental counters are located.

One of the advantages of Gandhinagar Airport is the relatively quick processing of all formalities. Thanks to its compactness and lower passenger traffic compared to metropolises, check-in and security screening usually take no more than 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard—1.5 to 2 hours before a domestic flight departure to avoid rushing. For navigation, simply follow the signs and check the information on the electronic flight boards.

The history of Gandhinagar Airport (ISK), also known as Ozar Airport, is unique and closely intertwined with the industrial and military development of India. Located near the city of Nashik, it served a dual function from the very beginning: acting as a base for the Indian Air Force and simultaneously serving as a key facility for the aircraft manufacturing company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Initially, the airfield was created as a strategic military base. Its development as a civil airport began much later. For many years, civil aviation connectivity was limited or non-existent, as the primary focus was on military needs and the production tasks of HAL, which has a large aircraft assembly and repair plant here.

A significant step in the airport's modernisation was the construction of a new modern passenger terminal, which was inaugurated in 2014. This project was intended to stimulate the economic development of the region and improve its transport accessibility. The terminal was equipped with everything necessary to service domestic flights, although regular commercial services did not resume immediately.

A new impetus for the development of passenger transport was provided by the government's regional aviation programme UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik). Thanks to this initiative, in recent years, the airport in Nashik has begun to receive and dispatch regular flights to major cities in the country again, becoming an important transport hub for the northern part of Maharashtra state.

The most interesting fact in the airport's history is its inseparable link with the production of combat aircraft. It is at the adjacent HAL plant that fighter jets, including the famous Su-30MKI, are assembled and tested. Therefore, passengers flying from Nashik can sometimes see not only civil airliners on the runway but also the latest military aviation technology, making this airport a truly unique facility.

Gandhinagar Airport (ISK) offers passengers a range of essential services to make waiting for a flight and staying in the terminal as comfortable as possible. Here you will find everything necessary for both tourists and business travellers departing from the city of Nashik.

Within the terminal, you can have a snack or drink coffee at small cafes and eateries. Shops are also available where you can purchase souvenirs, travel goods, and local products. The assortment usually includes both essentials and gifts for loved ones.

For passenger convenience, comfortable waiting lounges are provided in the airport. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the services of the VIP lounge, where quieter conditions are created for rest or work. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for mobile devices are installed in the waiting areas.

To handle financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange points operate at the airport, where you can perform necessary transactions before departure. In case of need, passengers can visit the medical centre for first aid.

The airport caters to all categories of travellers. Mother and child rooms are equipped for passengers with children, offering a quiet environment to feed and change babies. For passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms, and assistance services are also provided.

Although hotels are not located directly within the terminal building, there are several accommodation options of varying comfort levels in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers who need to hold a meeting or work, basic business services or small conference areas may be available; it is best to check information about these in advance at the information desk.

At Gandhinagar Airport (ISK), being a small regional hub, the choice of dining establishments is limited but sufficient for a snack before departure. Here you will find several small cafes and kiosks with snacks, oriented towards passengers who need a quick bite.

The main food outlets are located both in the public zone (landside) and in the departure zone after security control (airside). Do not expect large restaurants or food courts; rather, these are small counters offering drinks, sandwiches, and packaged snacks. Their opening hours generally correspond to the flight schedule, ensuring passenger service before departure.

Despite the modest selection, you may have a chance to try something local. Look out for Misal Pav—a famous spicy dish from the city of Nashik. If you are lucky enough to find it in one of the airport cafes, it will be a great opportunity to experience the culinary flavour of India. Generally, the assortment consists of tea, coffee, pastries, and standard snacks.

Given the cultural characteristics of the region, finding vegetarian options for a snack will not be difficult—they are usually available in every establishment. Passengers with other dietary requirements, such as gluten-free or vegan, are advised to check the ingredients with staff or carry snacks with them, as specialised choices may be absent. If you require a full meal, it is more reliable to eat before arriving at the airport.

When planning a departure from Gandhinagar Airport, located in the picturesque city of Nashik, it is important to calculate your time correctly. For domestic flights within India, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, allow at least 3 hours. This time buffer is sufficient to calmly pass all pre-flight formalities, especially during the peak tourist season.

To save time, use the online check-in service offered by most airlines. This will allow you to avoid queues if you are travelling with hand luggage only. Security checks at Indian airports can be quite thorough. Be prepared to present a printout of your e-ticket at the terminal entrance, as well as remove laptops and other large gadgets from your bag for scanning.

Standard international rules apply to carrying liquids in hand luggage: containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a transparent bag. It is strictly forbidden to carry sharp objects and flammable substances in the cabin. Important detail: power banks in India are permitted only in hand luggage; placing them in checked baggage is prohibited.

Seat selection on the plane depends on your preferences. Window seats will offer you beautiful views of the hilly landscapes of Maharashtra during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up frequently. If you have a transfer at Gandhinagar Airport, check with the airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. The airport is small, so navigation between gates usually causes no difficulties.

When passing through customs control upon arrival from abroad, have your passport, visa, and completed immigration card (usually distributed on the plane) ready. Be prepared to answer standard questions from the officer about the purpose of your trip and the duration of your stay. If you are importing goods subject to declaration, use the "Red Channel".

To make your trip more economical, book a taxi from the airport through official counters or apps to avoid inflated prices. Bring an empty water bottle with you—after passing security control, it can be filled at drinking water fountains. It is also better to bring small snacks with you, as prices in airport cafes can be high.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible options. Keep an eye on the information boards for updates. The airport has waiting areas and several cafes where you can spend time. Keep all receipts for food and drinks—they may be needed to claim compensation from the airline.