- Kanpur Airport (KNU) is a civil enclave at Chakeri Air Force Station, located 16 km from the city center, providing essential domestic connectivity.
- It offers flights to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Lucknow, supporting business travelers, students, and industry professionals.
- The airport is undergoing expansion under the UDAN scheme, enhancing regional connectivity, passenger facilities, and future route options.
Airport in Kanpur
The airport in Kanpur, officially known as Chakeri Air Force Station (Kanpur Airport, KNU), serves the city of Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh.
Located about 16 kilometers from the city center, it functions primarily as a civil enclave at an Indian Air Force base, offering domestic air connectivity to key Indian cities.
Kanpur is an industrial and educational hub in northern India, and the airport plays an important role in facilitating business travel, trade, and regional connectivity.
Overview of Kanpur Airport
Kanpur Airport is managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and operates as a civil-military airport, sharing its runway and airspace with the Indian Air Force.
The airport handles commercial domestic flights and is expected to expand operations under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme to enhance regional air travel.
Although smaller compared to metro airports, Kanpur Airport serves as a crucial link for business travelers, students, and government officials traveling to and from northern India.
Airport Code
The airport code for Kanpur Airport is KNU.
This code is used in flight bookings, airline operations, and baggage handling.
Facilities at Kanpur Airport
Kanpur Airport provides essential services to ensure a comfortable travel experience for domestic passengers.
Passenger Terminal
- Single terminal building for domestic flights.
- Designed to handle around 200 passengers per hour.
- Equipped with check-in counters, security systems, and baggage handling facilities.
Lounges and Waiting Areas
- Air-conditioned seating areas with clean restrooms.
- Basic waiting lounges for domestic travelers.
Food and Beverages
- Small refreshment kiosks serving tea, coffee, and snacks.
- Limited retail outlets for packaged food and beverages.
Parking
- Designated parking for cars and two-wheelers.
- Drop-off and pick-up zones available for passengers.
Transport and Connectivity
- Located about 16 km from Kanpur city center (approx. 30–40 minutes by road).
- Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs available outside the terminal.
- Road connectivity to nearby industrial hubs and residential areas.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair support and assistance for senior citizens and differently-abled passengers.
- First-aid and emergency facilities available within the terminal.
Connectivity of Kanpur Airport
Domestic Destinations
Kanpur Airport connects northern India to key cities via regular flights:
- Delhi (DEL) – Frequent flights connecting the national capital.
- Mumbai (BOM) – Seasonal services connecting western India.
- Lucknow (LKO) – Short domestic connections within Uttar Pradesh.
Airlines Operating
- IndiGo – Regular flights to Delhi and other destinations.
- Alliance Air – Regional flights under UDAN scheme.
- Air India Regional – Operates select flights depending on demand.
Importance of Airport in Kanpur
Economic and Commercial Significance
- Supports Kanpur’s industrial sectors, including leather, textiles, and manufacturing.
- Facilitates travel for business professionals, government officials, and investors.
Education & Healthcare
- Provides access for students and professionals visiting educational institutions and hospitals in Kanpur and nearby cities.
Regional Connectivity
- Enhances connectivity for surrounding districts of Uttar Pradesh.
- Reduces travel time compared to road or rail transport.
Travel Experience at Kanpur Airport
Passengers can expect a small, efficient, and convenient airport experience:
- Smooth check-in and security process.
- Clean terminal facilities with courteous staff.
- Scenic approach over northern plains during landing and takeoff.
Future Developments
- Expansion of the terminal to increase passenger handling capacity.
- Addition of new domestic routes under the UDAN scheme.
- Upgrades to parking, transport facilities, and passenger amenities.
- Potential runway modernization to accommodate larger aircraft in the future.
Conclusion
The airport in Kanpur – Kanpur Airport (KNU) – is a vital air gateway for northern Uttar Pradesh, supporting business, education, and regional connectivity.
With its strategic location, essential facilities, and growing air services, the airport provides a fast, reliable, and convenient travel option for residents, business travelers, and tourists.
Kanpur Airport ensures a smooth, comfortable, and efficient journey, making it an important hub for travel in the region.
