- Strategic Regional Hub: Bareilly Airport, operational since 2021 under the UDAN scheme, enhances air connectivity in western Uttar Pradesh, linking Bareilly to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- Economic & Cultural Boost: The airport supports Bareilly’s industries—furniture, textiles, and embroidery—and promotes cultural and religious tourism in the region.
- Growing Infrastructure: Future plans include terminal expansion, new domestic routes, and upgraded facilities to meet increasing passenger demand and support regional development.
The airport in Bareilly, officially known as Bareilly Airport (BEK), is a domestic airport serving the city of Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh. Located around 6 kilometers from the city center, it is a civil enclave managed jointly by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Bareilly is an important cultural and industrial hub in Uttar Pradesh, well-known for its furniture industry, cotton textiles, cane work, and the famous “Zari-Zardozi” embroidery. The airport provides convenient air connectivity for business travelers, tourists, and residents of Bareilly and nearby districts.
Overview of Bareilly Airport
Bareilly Airport was originally an air force station and later opened for commercial operations in March 2021 under the Government of India’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) regional connectivity scheme.
Though modest in size, the airport is vital for improving regional air connectivity in western Uttar Pradesh. It connects Bareilly with key metros, supporting both economic and tourism growth.
Facilities at Bareilly Airport
Bareilly Airport offers basic but essential facilities for passengers:
Passenger Terminal
- A single terminal designed to handle around 300 passengers during peak hours.
- Basic check-in counters and baggage handling facilities.
Lounges
- Limited waiting area with seating and basic amenities.
Shopping and Dining
- Small kiosks offering snacks and beverages.
- Local shops selling refreshments and essentials.
Transport
- Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs available outside the airport.
- Travel time to Bareilly city center: 15–20 minutes.
Parking
- Parking facility available for cars and two-wheelers.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair services and support for elderly and differently-abled passengers.
Connectivity of Bareilly Airport
Bareilly Airport primarily caters to domestic flights under the UDAN scheme.
Domestic Destinations
- Delhi – The main hub for connections across India and abroad.
- Mumbai – India’s financial capital.
- Lucknow, Bengaluru, Prayagraj – Other important cities connected through regional flights.
Airlines such as Alliance Air, IndiGo, and SpiceJet operate services from Bareilly.
International Connectivity
Currently, Bareilly Airport does not have direct international flights, but passengers can connect via Delhi or Lucknow for overseas travel.
Importance of Airport in Bareilly
Bareilly Airport plays an important role in the development of the region:
Regional Connectivity
- Provides faster access to metros for business travelers and students.
- Supports domestic tourism and trade.
Economic Development
- Facilitates exports of local industries such as furniture, textiles, and handicrafts.
Cultural and Religious Tourism
- Connects travelers to Bareilly’s cultural heritage, temples, and dargahs.
- Provides easier access to nearby destinations in Uttarakhand and western Uttar Pradesh.
Travel Experience at Bareilly Airport
Passengers at Bareilly Airport can expect a simple and efficient travel experience. While the airport is relatively small, check-in and boarding processes are smooth, and staff assistance ensures hassle-free travel.
The airport’s proximity to the city makes it convenient for residents, while tourists appreciate its connectivity to cultural and religious attractions.
Future Developments
To meet growing passenger demand, future expansion plans for Bareilly Airport include:
- Increasing the terminal’s capacity with modern amenities.
- Adding more domestic routes under the UDAN scheme.
- Strengthening cargo facilities to support local industries.
- Potential upgrades for night landing operations.
Conclusion
The airport in Bareilly – Bareilly Airport (BEK) – is a crucial regional airport connecting western Uttar Pradesh with major Indian cities. Although small in size, it provides essential connectivity for business travelers, tourists, and local industries.
For anyone traveling to Bareilly or nearby areas, the airport offers a convenient and time-saving alternative to road and rail travel, contributing to the city’s growth and accessibility.
