- Strategic Regional Hub:
Located in Sambra, about 10–12 km from Belagavi city, the airport connects North Karnataka with major Indian metros under the UDAN scheme. - Modern Facilities:
The upgraded terminal (inaugurated in 2017) handles 300 passengers during peak hours and offers amenities like lounges, parking, and smooth ground transport. - Economic & Connectivity Boost:
Belagavi Airport supports local industries, education, and tourism while serving as an alternate hub for Goa, Kolhapur, and Hubballi travelers.
Airport in Belagavi
The airport in Belagavi, officially known as Belagavi Airport (IXG), is a domestic airport serving the city of Belagavi (also known as Belgaum) in Karnataka. Located at Sambra, around 10–12 kilometers from the city center, the airport is one of the oldest in the region, originally established in 1942.
Belagavi is an important cultural, educational, and industrial hub in northwestern Karnataka. The airport provides crucial air connectivity for business travelers, students, and tourists, linking Belagavi with major Indian metros and nearby states.
Overview of Belagavi Airport
Belagavi Airport, also known as Sambra Airport, is managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). It has undergone several upgrades, including a new passenger terminal building inaugurated in 2017.
The airport is part of the government’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) regional connectivity scheme and plays a key role in strengthening air travel in Karnataka’s tier-2 cities. Its strategic location also makes it an alternative air hub for travelers heading towards Goa, Kolhapur, Hubbali, and North Karnataka.
Facilities at Belagavi Airport
Belagavi Airport offers modern yet simple facilities for passengers:
Passenger Terminal
- A new terminal building spread across 3,600 sq. meters, with a capacity of 300 passengers during peak hours.
- Modern check-in counters and baggage handling facilities.
Lounges
- Comfortable seating and waiting areas.
- VIP lounge available.
Shopping and Dining
- Small food kiosks and refreshment counters.
- Limited retail outlets with local products.
Transport
- Prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs available.
- Car rentals also accessible.
- Travel time from the airport to Belagavi city: 20–25 minutes.
Parking
- Parking facilities for cars, two-wheelers, and buses.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair support and staff assistance for senior citizens and differently-abled travelers.
Connectivity of Belagavi Airport
Belagavi Airport has expanded its flight operations under the UDAN scheme, offering direct connectivity to several destinations.
Domestic Destinations
- Bengaluru – Major hub for business and IT travelers.
- Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad – Key metro cities.
- Chennai, Indore, Surat, Ahmedabad, Tirupati, Nagpur – Other connected routes.
International Connectivity
Currently, Belagavi Airport does not operate direct international flights, but nearby hubs such as Goa and Bengaluru provide global connections.
Airlines operating include IndiGo, Star Air, and Alliance Air.
Importance of Airport in Belagavi
Belagavi Airport plays a significant role for the region in multiple ways:
Economic Growth
- Supports local industries such as sugar, textiles, and foundries.
- Enhances business travel for trade and industrial hubs.
Education & Healthcare
- Belagavi is home to reputed universities and medical colleges, and the airport helps students and professionals with easy travel.
Tourism Development
- Facilitates travel for tourists visiting Gokak Falls, Belagavi Fort, and Goa’s northern belt, located within driving distance.
Regional Connectivity
- Provides easy access for nearby districts and border regions of Maharashtra and Goa.
Travel Experience at Belagavi Airport
Travelers at Belagavi Airport can expect a smooth and comfortable experience. The new terminal offers clean and modern infrastructure, and the airport staff ensures efficient operations.
The approach is scenic, surrounded by greenery, and the airport’s proximity to Belagavi city makes it highly convenient for both residents and visitors.
Future Developments
Several projects are planned to enhance Belagavi Airport’s capacity:
- Runway expansion to accommodate larger aircraft.
- Improved cargo handling facilities for industrial exports.
- Addition of new domestic routes under the UDAN scheme.
- Potential consideration for international services in the future.
Conclusion
The airport in Belagavi – Belagavi (Sambra) Airport (IXG) – is a key regional airport connecting North Karnataka with India’s major cities. With its upgraded terminal, multiple flight routes, and growing passenger traffic, the airport plays an essential role in boosting the economy, education, and tourism in the region.
For business travelers, students, and tourists, Belagavi Airport provides a reliable and convenient air travel option, ensuring faster connectivity to metros and nearby states.
