The Big Switch: What Exactly is Happening?
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has officially announced that all scheduled domestic and international passenger flights will move from the current Visakhapatnam Airport (a civil enclave at the naval airbase INS Dega) to the brand-new airport in Bhogapuram.
This change is effective from 00:01 hours on August 17, 2026. The existing airport code, VTZ, will also be transferred to the new Bhogapuram facility on the same day, meaning all flight tickets and bookings for travel on or after this date will reflect the new location. The new airport, formally named Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 1.
Why the Move to a New Airport?
The primary reason for this significant shift is the limitation of the current airport. Operating as a civil enclave within a naval airbase, INS Dega, had inherent restrictions on expansion and flight operating hours. These limitations were becoming a bottleneck for the region's growing aviation needs. The new greenfield airport at Bhogapuram was conceived to overcome these challenges, providing a modern, scalable facility designed to handle a much higher volume of passenger and cargo traffic. Built at a cost of nearly ₹4,727 crore by the GMR Group, it represents a major infrastructure upgrade intended to boost economic development across North Andhra.
Your Guide to Bhogapuram International Airport
The new airport is a state-of-the-art facility designed for significant growth. In its first phase, it has the capacity to handle six million passengers annually, with a master plan for expansion to accommodate up to 40 million passengers in the future. Its runway is capable of handling large, wide-body aircraft, opening up possibilities for more direct long-haul international flights. The airport is expected to be a major catalyst for tourism, IT, and industrial sectors in Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam districts. The project was completed in a record 31 months, making it one of India's fastest-developed greenfield airports.
Planning Your Trip: Getting to Bhogapuram
One of the most critical adjustments for travellers will be the commute. The new airport is located in Vizianagaram district, approximately 45-55 kilometres from Visakhapatnam's city centre. Travel time by car is estimated to be between 75 and 105 minutes, depending on traffic. To facilitate this, dedicated electric bus services are being planned, with an expected fare of around ₹300 per person. Taxi and ride-sharing services will also be available, with estimated fares ranging from ₹800 to ₹1,500 for a one-way trip from the city. Travellers are strongly advised to plan for this extra travel time to avoid missing their flights.
I Have a Flight Booked. What Should I Do?
If you have a flight scheduled to or from Visakhapatnam on or after August 17, 2026, it will automatically be redirected to the new Bhogapuram airport. Airlines have been instructed to manage this transition and will be updating passenger itineraries. The airport code remains VTZ, so your booking details should reflect the new airport name: Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport. However, it is highly recommended to double-check your flight details directly with your airline closer to your travel date to confirm departure and arrival terminals and to receive any updated travel advisories.
What Happens to the Old Vizag Airport?
With the commissioning of Bhogapuram, the civil enclave at INS Dega will cease handling scheduled commercial passenger flights for a period of 30 years. However, the airbase itself will continue its crucial functions as a strategic asset for the Indian Navy and other armed forces. The notification from the Ministry of Civil Aviation clarifies that the closure does not apply to military aircraft, police flights, government VIP aircraft, or flights during a national emergency. Some non-scheduled commercial flights, like chartered services, may also be permitted to operate from the old facility.
