Airport in Chandigarh – Complete Guide to Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport

Airport in Chandigarh

The airport in Chandigarh, officially known as Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport (IXC), serves the Union Territory of Chandigarh and the neighboring states of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. Located in Mohali, around 13 kilometers from Chandigarh city center, the airport is a key air travel hub in North India, offering both domestic and international connectivity.

Named in honor of India’s great freedom fighter Shaheed Bhagat Singh, the airport reflects the region’s modern growth and patriotic legacy.

Overview of Chandigarh Airport

Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport is managed jointly by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL).
The airport’s modern terminal building, inaugurated in 2015, features sustainable architecture and advanced passenger facilities.

It serves as a gateway to the northern states, connecting Chandigarh with major Indian cities and select international destinations, including the Middle East.

Facilities at Chandigarh Airport

The airport provides modern, clean, and traveler-friendly facilities designed for comfort and efficiency.

Passenger Terminal

• A single integrated terminal for both domestic and international operations.
• Spread across 53,000 sq. meters, designed to handle over 2 million passengers annually.
• Features 48 check-in counters, 8 aerobridges, and efficient baggage handling systems.

Lounges

• Premium lounges with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, snacks, and refreshments.
• Separate waiting areas for VIPs and business travelers.

Shopping and Dining

• Retail outlets offering books, gifts, apparel, and local Punjabi handicrafts.
• Food courts, cafés, and restaurants serving Indian and international cuisine.

Transport and Connectivity

• Prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber) available outside the terminal.
• Car rentals and hotel shuttle services accessible.
• Travel time to Chandigarh city center: 20–25 minutes.
• Easy access via NH5 and public bus services operated by CTU (Chandigarh Transport Undertaking).

Parking

• Large parking area for cars, two-wheelers, and buses.
• Separate pickup/drop zones and long-term parking options.

Special Assistance

• Wheelchair and buggy services for senior citizens and differently-abled travelers.
• Medical aid, baby-care rooms, and lost & found facilities available.
  

Connectivity of Chandigarh Airport

Domestic Destinations

Chandigarh Airport connects to most major Indian cities, including:
Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Pune, Goa, Leh, and Srinagar.

International Connectivity

• Direct international flights to Dubai and Sharjah (operated by IndiGo and Air India Express).
• Plans for expanding routes to Doha, Bangkok, and Singapore in the future.

Airlines Operating

Major airlines include IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, Vistara, and Air India Express.

Importance of Airport in Chandigarh

Regional Development

• Serves as the primary airport for Tricity region (Chandigarh–Mohali–Panchkula).
• Supports business travel for industries in Punjab and Haryana.

Tourism Gateway

• Facilitates easy access to Shimla, Kasauli, Manali, Dharamshala, and Amritsar, popular tourist destinations in North India.
• Boosts inbound tourism to the Himalayan and Punjab regions.

Education & Administration

• Supports connectivity for students, government officials, and defense personnel traveling frequently between Chandigarh and other metros.

Trade & Economy

• Promotes regional business, agriculture exports, and IT growth by connecting to national and international trade hubs.

Travel Experience at Chandigarh Airport

Travelers can expect a smooth, organized, and clean airport experience.
The terminal showcases Punjabi-inspired architecture, featuring traditional motifs and modern interiors.
Quick security checks, polite staff, and comfortable lounges make it one of India’s best regional international airports.

Future Developments

Several projects are planned to enhance Chandigarh Airport’s capacity and reach:

• Expansion of the runway to accommodate wide-body aircraft.
• Dedicated cargo terminal to boost export of perishable goods and handicrafts.
• New international routes under discussion for Southeast Asia and Gulf countries.
• Focus on green airport initiatives, including solar energy usage and water recycling.

Conclusion

The airport in Chandigarh – Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport (IXC) – is a modern, efficient, and rapidly expanding airport that connects North India with the rest of the country and the world.

With its strategic location, upgraded facilities, and growing route network, it serves as a vital hub for business travelers, tourists, and students across Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.

For a comfortable and convenient flying experience with a touch of regional pride, Chandigarh Airport stands as one of India’s most well-managed and promising international airports.