- Dehradun Airport serves as the primary entry point to major tourist destinations like Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Jim Corbett, making it a crucial hub for tourism in the Himalayan region.
- Upgraded in 2017 with a new terminal, the airport handles around 500 passengers per hour and offers smooth check-in, lounge facilities, and reliable connectivity to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
- Plans include runway extension, terminal expansion, new domestic routes under UDAN, and potential international flights, positioning it as a fast-growing aviation hub for Uttarakhand.
Airport in Dehradun
The airport in Dehradun, officially known as Dehradun Airport or Jolly Grant Airport (DED), serves the city of Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, and nearby hill stations like Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
Located approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Dehradun city center, near Jolly Grant, the airport is a key gateway to the Himalayan region of northern India.
Overview of Dehradun Airport
Jolly Grant Airport is managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and functions as a domestic airport with growing regional connectivity.
It was upgraded in 2017 with a modern terminal building and expanded facilities to handle increasing passenger traffic.
Serving both leisure and business travelers, the airport is strategically important for tourism, education, and government activities in Uttarakhand.
Facilities at Dehradun Airport
The airport is compact yet offers modern amenities for a convenient travel experience.
Passenger Terminal
- Single terminal building for domestic flights.
- Handling capacity of around 500 passengers per hour.
- Features modern check-in counters, security scanners, and baggage handling systems.
Lounges and Waiting Areas
- Comfortable seating and air-conditioned waiting areas.
- Premium lounge facilities available for business travelers.
Shopping and Dining
- Small cafés and refreshment counters serving snacks, beverages, and light meals.
- Limited retail outlets for travel essentials and local products.
Transport and Connectivity
- Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber) available outside the terminal.
- Car rental services available.
- Travel time to city center: 25–30 minutes.
Parking
- Designated parking areas for cars, two-wheelers, and buses.
- Short-term and long-term parking options.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair support and staff assistance for senior citizens and differently-abled travelers.
- First-aid and baby-care facilities available.
Connectivity of Dehradun Airport
Domestic Destinations
Jolly Grant Airport offers flights to major Indian cities such as:
- Delhi (DEL)
- Mumbai (BOM)
- Bengaluru (BLR)
- Hyderabad (HYD)
- Kolkata (CCU)
- Pune (PNQ)
Airlines Operating
- IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir, and Air India Express operate regular flights.
Future International Connectivity
- While the airport currently handles only domestic flights, there are proposals to start international flights to nearby countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and Thailand.
Importance of Airport in Dehradun
Tourism Gateway
- Serves as the main entry point for travelers visiting Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Jim Corbett National Park, and other Himalayan destinations.
- Reduces travel time compared to road and rail connections to hill stations.
Economic and Regional Development
- Supports business travel for Uttarakhand’s growing IT, education, and industrial sectors.
- Enhances connectivity for government offices and defense establishments.
Education & Healthcare
- Facilitates travel for students and professionals visiting institutions in Dehradun like Doon School, Indian Military Academy (IMA), and University of Petroleum & Energy Studies.
Travel Experience at Dehradun Airport
Passengers experience a small but efficient airport environment.
- Quick security checks and boarding procedures make it ideal for short domestic travel.
- Scenic approach with views of the Shivalik Hills enhances the flying experience.
- Staff are courteous, and facilities are clean and well-maintained.
Future Developments
To handle growing demand, several developments are planned:
- Runway extension to accommodate larger aircraft.
- Terminal expansion with modern lounges, retail, and dining facilities.
- Introduction of more domestic routes under the UDAN scheme.
- Potential international flight operations in the coming years.
Conclusion
The airport in Dehradun – Jolly Grant Airport (DED) – is a vital air hub for Uttarakhand, connecting the Himalayan region with major Indian cities.
With its modern terminal, strategic location, and scenic surroundings, it provides efficient, convenient, and comfortable air travel for tourists, students, business travelers, and residents.
For anyone visiting the hill stations of Uttarakhand, Jolly Grant Airport is the fastest and most reliable gateway to the mountains, adventure, and cultural experiences of northern India.
