Airport in Aurangabad – Complete Guide to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj International Airport
- Gateway to Heritage Tourism:
Aurangabad Airport connects travelers to world-famous UNESCO sites like Ajanta and Ellora Caves, along with other attractions such as Bibi Ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort, making it a vital hub for cultural tourism in Maharashtra. - Efficient Regional Connectivity:
The airport links Aurangabad with major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, and occasionally operates international charter flights, supporting both tourism and business travel. - Future Growth & Development:
With ongoing plans for runway expansion, terminal upgrades, and improved facilities, the airport aims to enhance passenger experience and strengthen Aurangabad’s role as a growing tourism and business center in western India.
Airport in Aurangabad
The airport in Aurangabad, officially known as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj International Airport (IXU), is the main airport serving the historic city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra. Located around 5.5 kilometers from the city center, this airport is a vital gateway for tourists and business travelers visiting one of India’s most famous heritage destinations.
Aurangabad is renowned for the UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves, along with Bibi Ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort. The airport plays a crucial role in connecting this culturally rich city with major Indian metros and select international destinations.
Overview of Aurangabad Airport
Aurangabad Airport was first developed in 1945 and is currently managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). It was renamed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj International Airport in 2008 to honor the great Maratha ruler.
Though modest in size, the airport is well-equipped with essential facilities and primarily caters to domestic flights, with occasional international charters. Its strategic location near Maharashtra’s top tourist attractions makes it one of the busiest regional airports in western India.
Facilities at Aurangabad Airport
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj International Airport provides convenient facilities to ensure a comfortable travel experience:
Passenger Terminal
- A single terminal for domestic flights with modern amenities.
- Check-in counters and baggage handling facilities for smooth processing.
Lounges
- Limited seating area with waiting facilities.
- VIP lounge available for special passengers.
Shopping and Dining
- Small food stalls and refreshment counters serving snacks and beverages.
- Local souvenir shops offering handicrafts and artifacts.
Transport
- Prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs like Ola/Uber connect the airport with the city.
- City bus services and rental cars also available.
- Travel time from airport to Aurangabad city center: 15–20 minutes.
Parking
- Parking available for two-wheelers and four-wheelers (short-term and long-term).
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair services and basic assistance for senior citizens and differently-abled passengers.
Connectivity of Aurangabad Airport
Aurangabad Airport is connected with major Indian cities and serves as the main air hub for heritage tourism in Maharashtra.
Domestic Destinations
- Mumbai – The financial capital and gateway to India.
- Delhi – National capital and major domestic hub.
- Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Jaipur – Other important metros.
International Connectivity
- Occasional charter and seasonal flights operate to destinations in the Middle East, especially catering to tourists and business travelers.
Importance of Airport in Aurangabad
The airport holds great importance for Aurangabad and the wider Marathwada region:
Tourism Boost
- Acts as the entry point for UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Ajanta & Ellora Caves.
- Connects travelers to Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort, Panchakki, and Grishneshwar Temple (one of the 12 Jyotirlingas).
Business & Trade
- Supports local industries, especially textiles, handicrafts, and tourism-driven businesses.
Regional Development
- Enhances connectivity for Marathwada, where road and rail transport can be time-consuming.
Travel Experience at Aurangabad Airport
Travelers at Aurangabad Airport can expect a simple, efficient, and comfortable experience. While the airport is not very large, it is clean, organized, and well-managed. For tourists, the quick access to the city and heritage sites makes it highly convenient.
The approach to the airport is smooth, and its proximity to major hotels and tourist spots ensures that visitors can quickly begin their exploration of Aurangabad.
Future Developments
Plans are underway to expand and modernize Aurangabad Airport:
- Runway expansion to accommodate larger aircraft.
- Terminal upgrades with enhanced passenger amenities.
- More domestic and international connections to support growing tourist demand.
- Development of cargo facilities for boosting trade.
These improvements aim to position Aurangabad as a stronger tourism and business hub in western India.
Conclusion
The airport in Aurangabad – Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj International Airport – is a lifeline for travelers exploring Maharashtra’s rich history and heritage. With its proximity to world-famous monuments and growing infrastructure, it serves as a key link between Aurangabad and major Indian cities.
For tourists visiting Ajanta and Ellora Caves or business travelers heading to Marathwada, Aurangabad Airport provides a convenient and efficient travel experience. With future expansions, it is expected to further enhance connectivity and boost tourism in the region.
