Bhogapuram airport: North Andhra's rising star but connectivity lags behind
By G Janardhana Rao
Visakhapatnam: The Bhogapuram International Greenfield Airport is all set to be inaugurated much ahead of schedule in June this year, with the successful trial landing of a commercial flight on its runway.
The airport is expected to be a game-changer for the economic development of North Andhra, comprising Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and Visakhapatnam districts. However, concerns have been raised about the lack of connectivity from Visakhapatnam and its surrounding areas to the airport. The construction of crucial master plan roads and the coastal corridor, essential for easing traffic flow, has yet to begin.
The Andhra Pradesh Air Travellers Association has voiced these concerns, highlighting the need for urgent action.
Addressing a joint press conference Andhra Pradesh Air Travellers Association president K Kumar Raja and vice presidents O Naresh Kumar and DS Verma have come out with certain solutions to ensure smooth, affordable, and efficient airport access during the interim period until a dedicated road connectivity to Bhogapuram International Airport is fully operational
They said among the key challenges that emerge include travel time from Visakhapatnam city to Bhogapuram Airport is approximately 2 hours, adding to the mandatory 2-hour early reporting time for flights. Taxi fares range from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 one-way, placing a significant financial burden on passengers. Urban traffic congestion increases the risk of missed flights, they said.
The Andhra Pradesh Air Travellers Association has suggested certain solutions to address the challenges. They include continuation of operations of select flights from the existing Visakhapatnam Airport during peak hours. Additional Airport User Development Fees (UDF) may be collected from passengers for utilising these flights. They also suggested expeditious completion of critical access roads and infrastructure and development.
Sophisticated electric AC buses should be operated from key points in Visakhapatnam to Bhogapuram Airport. World-class passenger lounges should be set up at these points in the city for the benefit of air travellers.
The association has appealed to the government to prioritise these measures to ensure smooth, affordable, and seamless airport access. With Visakhapatnam Airport handling nearly 3 million passengers in 2025, the need for efficient connectivity to Bhogapuram Airport is critical
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