Bhogapuram Airport Begins Commercial Operations in Andhra Pradesh
Bhogapuram Airport has officially started commercial flight operations, marking a major milestone for Andhra Pradesh’s aviation infrastructure.
The Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, located at Bhogapuram in Vizianagaram district, began commercial operations on August 17, 2026. The new airport has taken over scheduled commercial aviation services for the Visakhapatnam region from the existing airport at INS Dega.
The launch is expected to significantly improve air connectivity for Visakhapatnam and North Andhra Pradesh while creating a new aviation hub for the region.
First Commercial Flights Begin at Bhogapuram
Commercial operations at Bhogapuram Airport began on August 17, with the first flight operated by IndiGo arriving from Hyderabad.
Airlines have shifted their Visakhapatnam operations to the new airport as part of the transition from the old civilian airport.
Air India has also moved its Visakhapatnam flights to Bhogapuram, including 14 weekly flights between Bhogapuram and Delhi. The airport is continuing to use the existing VTZ airport code for Visakhapatnam services.
Visakhapatnam Airport Commercial Operations End
The opening of the new airport also marks the end of scheduled commercial operations at the existing Visakhapatnam airport located at INS Dega.
The final commercial flight from the old airport departed on August 16, formally completing the transition to Bhogapuram.
The shift means passengers travelling to and from Visakhapatnam will now use the new airport at Bhogapuram for scheduled commercial flights.
Why Is Bhogapuram Airport Important?
The new airport is expected to become an important transportation hub for North Coastal Andhra Pradesh.
The region has been seeking modern aviation infrastructure capable of supporting increasing passenger traffic, tourism, trade and investment.
The airport is also expected to support industrial development around Visakhapatnam and neighbouring areas.
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister K Pawan Kalyan said the airport represented a long-standing aspiration of people in North Andhra, while Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu congratulated GMR Group and the people of the region on the beginning of operations.
Modern Airport Infrastructure
The Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport has been developed as a greenfield airport with modern passenger facilities.
The initial phase has an annual passenger-handling capacity of around 6 million passengers.
The terminal also features upgraded passenger facilities and seven aerobridges, which are expected to improve boarding and passenger movement.
The airport has been designed to support both domestic and international aviation requirements as traffic grows.
More Connectivity for Visakhapatnam
The transition to Bhogapuram Airport is expected to strengthen connectivity to Visakhapatnam and the wider North Andhra region.
Airlines including IndiGo and Air India have shifted their operations to the new airport, ensuring that existing passengers continue to have access to important domestic routes.
The airport is also positioned to support future international connectivity, potentially creating more direct travel opportunities for passengers from the region.
Boost for Tourism and Business
The new airport could play an important role in supporting Andhra Pradesh’s tourism and business sectors.
Visakhapatnam is an important industrial and commercial centre, while North Andhra is home to several tourism destinations.
Improved air connectivity can make it easier for business travellers, tourists and investors to access the region.
The airport is also expected to support employment opportunities and attract investment around the airport and nearby areas.
Bhogapuram Airport and Regional Economic Growth
Large airport projects can have an impact beyond passenger travel.
Better connectivity can encourage companies to expand operations, improve access to markets and support the development of hotels, logistics, retail and other businesses around the airport.
For North Andhra, the new airport therefore represents more than a replacement for the old Visakhapatnam airport.
It is being positioned as a long-term infrastructure project capable of supporting the region’s economic growth.
What Does the Airport Shift Mean for Passengers?
Passengers travelling to Visakhapatnam should now check their flight details carefully because scheduled commercial services have shifted to Bhogapuram Airport.
Although flights continue to use the VTZ airport code, the physical airport location is now Bhogapuram rather than the old INS Dega facility.
Travellers should therefore allow sufficient time for reaching the new airport, particularly during the initial transition period.
What Happens Next?
The immediate focus will be on ensuring a smooth transition for passengers and airlines.
As operations stabilise, the airport could see an expansion in flight frequencies and new domestic and international routes.
With its modern infrastructure and planned capacity, Bhogapuram Airport is expected to become an important aviation gateway for Andhra Pradesh.
Final Thoughts
The launch of Bhogapuram Airport marks a major new chapter for aviation in Andhra Pradesh.
With commercial operations beginning on August 17, 2026, the new Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport has replaced the old Visakhapatnam airport as the region’s main civilian aviation hub.
The airport’s modern facilities, initial capacity of around 6 million passengers annually and growing airline connectivity could provide a major boost to Visakhapatnam and North Andhra.
Beyond air travel, the project could support tourism, investment, employment and broader economic development across the region.
For passengers, the most important change is simple: commercial flights to and from Visakhapatnam now operate from Bhogapuram Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Bhogapuram Airport start commercial operations?
Bhogapuram Airport started commercial flight operations on August 17, 2026.
What is the full name of Bhogapuram Airport?
The airport’s official name is Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport.
Where is Bhogapuram Airport located?
The airport is located at Bhogapuram in Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh, and serves the Visakhapatnam region.
Has Visakhapatnam Airport stopped commercial flights?
Yes. Scheduled commercial operations have shifted from the old Visakhapatnam airport at INS Dega to the new Bhogapuram airport.
Which airlines are operating from Bhogapuram Airport?
Airlines including IndiGo and Air India have shifted their Visakhapatnam operations to the new airport.
What is the initial capacity of Bhogapuram Airport?
The airport’s initial passenger-handling capacity is approximately 6 million passengers per year.
Will Bhogapuram Airport have international flights?
The airport is designed to support international operations, and its connectivity is expected to expand as airline services grow.
Is the VTZ airport code still being used?
Yes. Air India has stated that flights shifted to Bhogapuram will continue to use the existing VTZ airport code associated with Visakhapatnam.
