The Official Date for the Big Switch
Mark your calendars. All scheduled commercial domestic and international passenger flights will operate from the new Bhogapuram airport starting from August 17, 2026. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has confirmed that from this date, the current civil
enclave at INS Dega in Visakhapatnam will cease handling commercial flights for the next 30 years. While the new airport will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 1, 2026, the actual shift in flight operations will happen a little over two weeks later. The existing IATA code for Visakhapatnam, “VTZ,” will be transferred to the new airport at Bhogapuram on August 17, so your booking information should remain consistent.
Mapping Your New Journey to the Airport
The new airport is located in Bhogapuram, Vizianagaram district, approximately 50-55 kilometres from the current Visakhapatnam airport. This added distance means your travel time to catch a flight will increase significantly, making planning ahead crucial. The primary access is via National Highway 16 (NH-16), which connects Visakhapatnam city to the airport. Travellers coming from areas like Gajuwaka or Kurmannapalem can expect a drive of around one hour and 45 minutes. Those starting from the city centre, such as the RTC Complex or near the railway station, might face a journey of about two hours, especially if taking the scenic Beach Road route.
Choosing Your Ride: Buses and Cabs
To ease the transition, the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) is launching dedicated electric bus services starting August 1. Initially, 20 AC electric buses will operate on two main routes. The first route will run along NH-16, starting from Gajuwaka and passing through NAD Junction, Maddilapalem, and Madhurawada. The second route will also start from Gajuwaka but will travel via Scindia, the Visakhapatnam Railway Station, and Beach Road before heading to the airport. An indicative fare for the e-bus service is expected to be around ₹300 from the core city area. For those preferring a private ride, app-based cabs and taxis will be available, with estimated fares ranging from ₹800 to ₹1,500 depending on your location and time of travel.
What to Expect at the New Airport
The Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport is a modern, greenfield project built to handle six million passengers annually in its first phase, with plans to expand to 40 million. It boasts a 3,800-meter runway capable of accommodating large wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777 and Airbus A340. Inside, travellers will find advanced facilities, including self-service check-in kiosks, self-baggage drop counters, and smart surveillance systems designed for a smoother passenger experience. The airport also features a large cargo terminal with temperature-controlled facilities, aiming to boost exports of pharmaceuticals and marine products from the region.
A Quick Checklist for Travellers
To ensure a hassle-free journey during this transition period, keep these points in mind. First, if your flight is on or after August 17, 2026, confirm that you are heading to the new Bhogapuram airport, not the old one in Vizag. Second, allow for significantly more travel time than you are used to. A journey of up to two hours from parts of the city is likely. Third, check your transport options in advance. If you plan to take the new electric bus service, familiarise yourself with the routes and timings. If you're booking a cab, be prepared for higher fares compared to your previous airport trips. Finally, keep an eye on updates from airlines and official sources as the transition date approaches.
