The question of Kolkata’s airport name
Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. The city is served by an international airport, which is a gateway to the Eastern part of India. The name of the airport has been a topic of discussion and confusion among many travelers. In this article, we will tell you what Kolkata’s airport is called, its history, facilities, airlines, and future plans.
A brief history of Kolkata’s airport
The first airport in Kolkata was established in 1924 in Dum Dum, a suburb of the city. The airport was used for military purposes during World War II, and later for commercial flights. Over the years, the airport has undergone several upgrades and renovations to accommodate the growing number of passengers. Today, the airport is a hub for domestic and international flights, connecting Kolkata to major cities in India and other parts of the world.
Renaming of Kolkata’s airport: the controversy
In 2018, the West Bengal government proposed to rename the airport after Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent Indian freedom fighter. However, this decision was met with opposition from some political parties, who wanted the airport to be named after other leaders. The controversy dragged on for months, with debates and protests by various groups.
The final decision: what is the airport called?
After much deliberation and discussion, the airport was finally renamed as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in January 2021. The decision was welcomed by many, who saw it as a tribute to a national hero. The renaming also puts the airport on par with other international airports that are named after famous personalities.
Kolkata airport’s code: CCU
The IATA code for Kolkata airport is CCU, which stands for Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. This code is used by airlines and travel agencies to identify the airport in booking systems and flight schedules.
The airport’s location and facilities
The airport is located about 17 km from the city center and is easily accessible by taxis, buses, and the metro. The airport has two terminals – Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights. The airport has a range of facilities, including restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, lounges, and a prayer room.
Airlines and destinations served by Kolkata airport
Kolkata airport is a hub for several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara. The airport serves domestic destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai, as well as international destinations such as Bangkok, Dubai, and Singapore.
How to get to and from Kolkata airport
Kolkata airport is well connected to the city and can be accessed by taxis, buses, and the metro. Taxis and pre-paid cabs are available outside the airport terminals. Buses run from the airport to various parts of the city, and the metro is a convenient and affordable option for those traveling to the city center.
Kolkata airport’s role in the city’s economy
Kolkata airport plays a crucial role in the city’s economy by connecting it to other parts of India and the world. The airport serves as a gateway for trade and commerce and contributes to the growth of various industries, including tourism, hospitality, and aviation.
Future plans and expansion for Kolkata airport
The airport is planning to expand its facilities, including the construction of a new terminal and runway. The expansion is expected to increase the airport’s capacity to handle more passengers and flights, and further boost the city’s economy.
Conclusion: Kolkata airport in a nutshell
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, formerly known as Kolkata airport, is a modern and well-equipped airport that serves as a gateway to the Eastern part of India. The airport has a rich history and has undergone several upgrades over the years. The airport plays a vital role in the city’s economy and is set to expand its facilities in the coming years.
Additional resources on Kolkata airport
- Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport website:
- Kolkata airport Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netaji_Subhas_Chandra_Bose_International_Airport
- Kolkata airport flight status:
