Kolkata Airport Name and Code:
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)
Kolkata Airport Contact Information:
- (91)33 2511-8787
Kolkata Airport Location:
Dum Dum, 16 kilometers (10 miles) northeast of the city.
Kolkata Airport Travel Time to City Center:
1-1.5 hours.
Kolkata Airport Overview:
Kolkata airport is very small and handles around 5 million passengers annually. It's an international airport but over 75% of its passengers are domestic travelers. The airport is operated by the Indian government's Airports Authority of India and gives the impression that it's stuck in a time warp. It's outdated and lacks passenger amenities, although you'll find the bare necessities. Don’t plan on clearing immigration quickly at this airport. The process is time consuming and officers operate at a very leisurely pace. Fortunately, the airport is planned to be upgraded by 2011.
Kolkata Airport Terminals:
Both the domestic and international terminals are located in the same building.
Kolkata Airport Facilities:
Kolkata airport has a limited range of shops and eateries. There are no business or conference facilities at the airport, however there is a wireless internet facility. It's not free though. Money changing and ATM facilities are provided. Wheelchairs are also available for the physically challenged, although other facilities for the disabled are basic. The airport provides retiring rooms and dormitories, at a cost, for those who need to rest between flights.
Kolkata Airport Transport:
The best way to get to the city center is to take a prepaid taxi from the Bengal Taxi Association counter. It operates 24 hours, and is located on the left as you head towards the exit of the international arrivals area. A fare to Sudder Street is around 350 rupees ($8).
Kolkata Airport Travel Tips:
Dense fog hangs over Kolkata airport from late December to early January, between 2 a.m. and 8 a.m. This causes regular flight delays during these times. Travelers should take this into consideration when making plans.
Kolkata Airport Hotels:
Kolkata Airport has retiring rooms. Both private rooms and dormitories are available. Ph: (91)33 2552-9547. However, demand is high and it's hard to get a vacancy.
Alternatively, if you'd rather stay in a hotel close to the airport there are a few decent enough options to suit all budgets. This guide to Kolkata airport hotels will help point you in the right direction.
