All Flights Move to a New Airport
The most critical change for all travellers is a complete shift in location. Starting from 00:01 hours on August 17, 2026, all scheduled commercial flights—both domestic and international—will cease operations at the current Visakhapatnam Airport (INS
Dega). All flight services will be transferred to the newly constructed Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram. This is not a partial change or a terminal switch; it is a full relocation of commercial air services to a brand-new facility. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has confirmed this transition, marking a new era for aviation in Andhra Pradesh.
Introducing Bhogapuram Airport
The new airport, officially named Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, is a greenfield project located in Bhogapuram, approximately 45-50 kilometres from Visakhapatnam city. Developed by the GMR Group, this modern facility was built at a cost of nearly ₹4,727 crore and is designed to handle six million passengers annually in its first phase. Following its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 1, the airport will officially begin commercial operations on August 17. Its airport code will be 'VTZ', the same code currently used by the Visakhapatnam airport, which will be officially transferred on the day of the operational shift.
Why Is This Major Change Happening?
The existing airport operates as a civil enclave within a naval airbase, INS Dega. This arrangement has long placed limitations on expansion and scheduling. The move to a dedicated international airport at Bhogapuram is a strategic decision to foster regional growth, enhance passenger capacity, and boost economic activity. The new airport is expected to significantly improve logistics, tourism, and industrial exports for Visakhapatnam and the surrounding districts. The closure of the civil enclave at INS Dega for scheduled commercial flights is set for a period of 30 years, as per the Ministry of Civil Aviation's notification.
What Flyers Must Do Now
If you are scheduled to fly to or from Visakhapatnam on or after August 17, 2026, your flight will operate from the new Bhogapuram airport. The most important step is to plan for the new location. Given that the airport is about 50 km from the city, travel time will be significantly longer than the current commute. You must factor in this additional travel time to ensure you reach the airport well in advance of your flight. All airlines will be operating from the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport. Check your flight tickets and airline notifications carefully for any specific instructions. The old airport at INS Dega will no longer be accessible for your flight.
What Happens to the Old Airport?
While scheduled commercial passenger flights will end at the existing Visakhapatnam airport, the facility will not shut down entirely. It will continue to function as the naval airbase INS Dega. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has clarified that the closure does not apply to aircraft of the Indian Air Force, other armed forces, police, or other authorities. It will also remain available for government VIP aircraft and during national emergencies. Furthermore, non-scheduled commercial flights, such as chartered planes, may be permitted to continue operating from INS Dega.
