Kempegowda International Airport (BLR Airport), situated in Bengaluru, proudly stands as India’s first Greenfield Airport developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This trailblazing project has revolutionized the country’s aviation sector, positioning Bengaluru as a vital global connectivity hub. Managed by Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL), the airport operates under a 60-year concession, demonstrating a successful collaboration between public and private entities in creating world-class infrastructure.
A Journey Through History
Before BLR Airport, Bengaluru’s air traffic was handled by HAL Airport, originally constructed for military purposes during World War II. Over the decades, HAL began accommodating commercial flights, but as Bengaluru’s growth outpaced the airport’s capacity, the need for a new facility became evident.
In 2001, the Karnataka government, in partnership with the Union Government and private stakeholders, formed BIAL to spearhead the development of a modern airport. Following years of planning, land acquisition, and construction, Kempegowda International Airport opened its doors in May 2008.
Strategic Location and Connectivity
The airport is located in Devanahalli, about 40 km from Bengaluru’s city center, and spans a vast 4,000 acres. Its strategic location ensures excellent connectivity via major highways and rail networks, with Yelahanka Junction being the nearest train station at a distance of 18 km.
Passenger Growth and Achievements
Since its inception, BLR Airport has witnessed phenomenal growth, becoming South India’s busiest airport and India’s third largest. By 2019, the airport handled over 33 million passengers, and in December 2023, it crossed the milestone of 300 million passengers served. During the fiscal year 2023-24, it managed 37.5 million passengers and facilitated the movement of 439,000 tonnes of cargo.
World-Class Terminals and Infrastructure
Kempegowda International Airport houses two state-of-the-art terminals:
- Terminal 1 (T1): Primarily caters to domestic flights, with select international services.
- Terminal 2 (T2): An architectural marvel inspired by Bengaluru’s reputation as the “Garden City.” Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), T2 integrates lush greenery into its design, featuring hanging gardens, green walls, and a striking bamboo-lattice ceiling. It seamlessly blends nature with modernity, offering a unique indoor-outdoor passenger experience.
The airport also features two parallel runways, enabling efficient handling of the increasing flight traffic.
Sustainability: A Solar-Powered Vision
BLR Airport is a pioneer in sustainability, being Karnataka’s first fully solar-powered airport. Through partnerships with CleanMax Solar, the facility meets its energy requirements using renewable sources, setting a benchmark for eco-friendly airport operations.
Accolades and Recognition
BLR Airport’s commitment to excellence has earned it numerous prestigious awards, including:
- Best Airport in India & South Asia (Skytrax World Airport Awards)
- Best Airport for Arrivals Globally (ACI World)
- Airport of the Year (Wings India Awards)
These recognitions highlight its operational efficiency, passenger satisfaction, and innovative infrastructure.
Connectivity and Airline Operations
As of 2024, Kempegowda International Airport connects passengers to 102 global and domestic destinations through 40 airlines. From domestic carriers like IndiGo and Air India to international giants such as Emirates, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines, the airport facilitates seamless travel worldwide.
Honoring a Legacy
The airport is named after Kempe Gowda, the visionary 16th-century ruler who founded Bengaluru. This homage reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage while underscoring its modern ambitions as a global hub.
A Landmark of Progress
Kempegowda International Airport is more than a gateway to Bengaluru—it’s a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and progress. By blending cutting-edge technology with eco-friendly practices and passenger-centric facilities, the airport sets a benchmark in infrastructure development. As it continues to evolve, BLR Airport remains a vital contributor to India’s aviation landscape and a proud emblem of Bengaluru’s global stature.