Surat Gujarat Airport

Surat Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the "Diamond City" of India and a thriving centre of the textile industry. With the opening of its new modern terminal, the airport has been transformed, combining functionality with an aesthetic design that reflects the dynamic spirit of the region. Today, it plays a key role in connecting South Gujarat with the country's major metropolises and destinations abroad, offering travellers a comfortable start for business trips and tourist adventures.

Airport Features and Highlights:

Surat Airport is undergoing a period of active development, having recently received official international status. The main pride of the air harbour is the new integrated terminal, capable of handling up to 1,800 passengers during peak hours. The building is equipped with modern aerobridges, spacious waiting lounges, and advanced baggage handling systems, significantly speeding up pre-flight formalities.

The airport's design is inspired by the region's cultural heritage: in the interiors, one can notice elements referring to traditional art and the city's famous diamond industry. Special attention has been paid to eco-friendliness — the terminal uses energy-saving technologies and solar energy. Thanks to its convenient location in the Magdalla area, reaching the city centre by taxi or public transport takes just 20–30 minutes, making it extremely convenient for business travellers.

Below you will find essential contact information for Surat Airport (STV) to help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: www.aai.aero/en/airports/surat. Here you can find flight schedules, news, and general information about services.
• Information Desk Phone: +91 261 270 0200. You can call this number for information regarding flights and airport operations.
• Airport Address: Surat - Dumas Rd, Gaviyer, Surat, Gujarat 395007, India.
• Email: apd_surat@aai.aero (Airport Director's office, suitable for official enquiries).
• Social Media: For updates, you can follow the official airport account on X (formerly Twitter) — @Surat_Airport.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost during the flight, contact your airline's representative first. For items left within the terminal building, please contact the airport information desk.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and assistance, it is recommended to use the main information desk phone number or email.

Getting to Surat Airport (STV) from the city centre or, conversely, from the airport to Surat, is quite simple thanks to several modes of transport. The airport is located approximately 12-15 kilometres from the business district, and the journey usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes, although this time can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences.

The most budget-friendly way to reach the airport is by city bus. There are routes connecting the airport with various parts of the city, including the central bus station. This is a good choice for those travelling light, however, it is worth noting that buses can be crowded, especially during peak hours, and the journey will take longer than by taxi. It is best to check current route numbers and schedules on the spot.

A faster and more convenient option is to use taxi or auto-rickshaw services. In India, mobile taxi-hailing apps like Ola and Uber are widely used and offer rides at fixed prices. This is arguably the most popular method among tourists. Additionally, you can use pre-paid taxi services or hail an auto-rickshaw. In the case of a rickshaw, be sure to agree on the fare in advance or ensure the driver turns on the meter to avoid misunderstandings.

For those who value maximum comfort and independence, car rental is available. Both local and international rental companies operate in the city. Many tourists prefer to rent a car with a driver, which eliminates the need to navigate dense Indian traffic. This option is particularly convenient if you are travelling with family or a large group, or if you plan trips outside the city.

If you are arriving in Surat by train, note that the main railway station is in the city, not at the airport. From the station to the airport, it is most convenient to take a taxi or auto-rickshaw; the trip will take about 30-40 minutes. For those driving to the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, the terminal grounds feature paid parking, suitable for both short-term and long-term stays.

Surat Airport (STV) is a modern and compact aviation hub with one integrated terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to a well-thought-out layout, navigation within it is intuitive and presents no difficulties even for first-time visitors.

The terminal structure is quite simple. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. Departure halls are located on the upper level and include airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. The Arrival zone is situated on the lower level, where passengers reclaim their luggage and pass through customs control (for international flights), after which they exit into the general hall to meet hotel representatives and taxi services.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between buildings. All services and gates are located within a single building, which significantly saves passengers time and effort. The airport layout is logical: after entering, you immediately reach the check-in counters, pass through security, and find yourself in the airside zone with shops, cafes, and waiting lounges before the boarding gates.

Completing all formalities usually does not take much time. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5-3 hours prior. This time is usually sufficient for a calm check-in, baggage drop, and security screening. For passenger convenience, numerous signs in English and Gujarati are placed throughout the terminal to help you orient yourself and quickly find the necessary gate or service.

The history of Surat Airport (STV) is a vivid example of how persistence and development can turn a modest airfield into an important transport hub. Originally built by the Gujarat state government, the airport did not serve scheduled commercial flights for a long time. The turning point was May 2007, when, after a lengthy public campaign, Air India launched the first flights to Delhi, officially opening air connectivity for the city's residents.

Further development followed swiftly. In 2009, a new modern terminal was opened, significantly increasing passenger comfort and the airport's capacity. This step became the starting point for attracting new airlines and gradually expanding the route network across India.

One of the most unusual yet significant incidents in the airport's history occurred in November 2014, when a SpiceJet aircraft collided with a buffalo on the runway. Fortunately, this incident caused no casualties, but it drew nationwide attention to security issues and served as a powerful impetus for radical modernisation: the perimeter fence was strengthened, and monitoring systems were improved.

A true triumph for the airport was being granted international status in 2018. By February 2019, the first international flight was operated, connecting Surat with Sharjah. In recent years, the airport has continued to expand actively: the runway length was increased to accommodate larger aircraft, and a new integrated terminal was built, ready to serve the constantly growing passenger traffic and cargo operations.

Surat Airport (STV) provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-equipped and offers thoughtful service for both departing and arriving travellers.

You can grab a bite before your flight at one of the cafes or snack bars serving light meals, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. There are also several shops at the airport where you can purchase essentials, souvenirs to remember your trip to India, and local delicacies. For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, there are premium lounges where you can relax in silence and enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your flight. Special charging stations and power outlets located in the waiting lounges are provided for charging electronic devices. Travellers can use ATMs and currency exchange counters to handle financial matters.

The airport caters to all categories of passengers. Baby care rooms are equipped for travellers with children, offering a quiet environment to tend to little ones. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance in moving around the terminal, special washrooms, and ramps. In case of need, you can visit the medical room for first aid.

Although there are no hotels within the airport grounds, numerous accommodation options to suit any taste and budget are located in the immediate vicinity and in the city of Surat itself. While there are no specialised business centres or conference halls in the terminal, basic conditions for work, such as internet access and quiet zones, can be found in the VIP lounges.

At Surat Airport (STV), passengers will find several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in major international hubs, you certainly won't go hungry. The main dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal, both in the public area and in the departure zone after security check.

The range of dishes mainly consists of popular Indian snacks and standard traveller fare. You can easily find cafes to order fresh pastries, sandwiches, tea, or coffee. Given the location in the state of Gujarat, special attention should be paid to vegetarian dishes, which are present in abundance here and are of excellent quality. If you are lucky, you can try local specialities such as dhokla or samosas. Many Indian dishes are naturally vegan and gluten-free, but it is best to check the ingredients with the staff to be sure.

For those short on time, small kiosks and cafes offering takeaway food are the ideal choice. They are located both landside (check-in area) and airside (after passport control). If you wish to have a more substantial lunch in a quiet setting, it is better to proceed to the secure departure zone. There, the choice of establishments is usually slightly wider, and you can find a food court with several outlets.

Prices at Surat Airport are expectedly higher than in the city but remain within reason for an airport terminal. Most cafes and restaurants operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one leaves. This ensures that passengers always have the opportunity to eat, regardless of their travel time.

To ensure your journey through Surat Airport goes smoothly, make use of our tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and save time, especially if you are flying from India for the first time.

Arrival and Check-in: For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure, and for international flights — at least 3-4 hours prior. This gives you enough time in case of queues. To save time, complete online check-in on the airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone. At the airport, you will only need to drop off your bags at the dedicated baggage drop-off counter.

Security Check: During screening, be prepared to remove all electronic devices (laptops, tablets, power banks) from your hand luggage into a separate tray. Liquids (perfumes, gels, creams) can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a single transparent bag. Power banks and spare lithium-ion batteries are permitted only in hand luggage. When passing through customs, declare goods honestly if their value exceeds the allowance to avoid fines.

Onboard and Transfers: Want the best view? Choose a window seat during check-in. Need quick access to the aisle and washroom? Your seat is the aisle seat. If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage at the intermediate airport or if it will be transferred automatically. Also, check if a terminal change is required.

What to do in case of flight delay: If your flight is delayed, contact your airline representative. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with vouchers for food, beverages, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses — they may be needed to claim compensation. To save money, bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after security, along with some light snacks.