Veer Savarkar International Airport / INS Utkrosh (IXZ)

Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), also known as Port Blair Airport, is the primary aviation gateway to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Located just 2 kilometers south of the city center, the airport acts as a critical lifeline connecting the remote archipelago to mainland India. In July 2023, a significant milestone was reached with the inauguration of a new, state-of-the-art integrated terminal building. This modern facility, spanning over 40,000 square meters, is designed to handle up to 5 million passengers annually and incorporates striking shell-shaped architectural elements that reflect the islands' marine environment and natural beauty. The technical infrastructure at Port Blair is robust, featuring a single asphalt runway (04/22) that measures 3,420 meters (11,220 feet) in length. This runway is capable of handling most narrow-body and some wide-body commercial aircraft, supporting a high frequency of flights from major carriers like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet. The airport operates as a civil enclave sharing airside facilities with the Indian Naval Air Station INS Utkrosh, which manages all air traffic operations in the region. The new terminal is outfitted with 28 check-in counters, four aerobridges, and advanced in-line baggage scan systems, ensuring a high level of operational efficiency and security for domestic and future international traffic. Passenger amenities within the new Port Blair terminal are world-class, providing a comfortable and high-tech environment for travelers. The facility features three distinct levels, including a dedicated international passenger security hold and a spacious bus lounge for remote gate operations. Travelers can enjoy a variety of retail and dining options, premium lounges, and modern conveniences such as free Wi-Fi and multiple mobile charging stations. Essential services like currency exchange, nursing rooms, and 24/7 medical assistance are well-integrated into the terminal layout. Its proximity to the city center and the Phoenix Bay Jetty ensures that arriving passengers can reach their hotels or the ferry terminals for onward travel to Havelock and Neil Islands in just a few minutes.