What is the New Fee Structure?
The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) has approved a new tariff order that adjusts the User Development Fee (UDF) for passengers using Bengaluru's airport. For the first time, a UDF will be levied on passengers arriving at the airport. Simultaneously,
the UDF for departing passengers has been significantly reduced. This change aims to distribute the cost of airport infrastructure—like aerobridges and baggage systems—more evenly between those flying in and out, a model used at other major Indian airports. These new rates are part of a five-year plan running until March 2031, with the first phase of rates applicable from September 1, 2026, through August 2029.
How Much Will Departing Passengers Pay?
Passengers flying out of Bengaluru will see a welcome reduction in their ticket costs. For domestic departures, the UDF has been cut by 45%, from ₹550 down to ₹300 per passenger. For international departures, the fee drops from ₹1,500 to ₹997, a reduction of about 33.5%. This move is intended to make air travel more affordable, especially for domestic flyers who make up approximately 84% of the airport's traffic. These new, lower fees apply to all tickets issued for travel on or after September 1, 2026.
What About Arriving Passengers?
The most significant change is the introduction of a UDF for passengers landing at KIA. Previously, there was no fee for arrivals. Starting September 1, domestic passengers arriving in Bengaluru will be charged a UDF of ₹125. International passengers arriving at the airport will have to pay a new fee of ₹426. While this adds a new cost for inbound travelers, airport authorities have noted that the overall combined fee for a round trip may still be lower for many, thanks to the steep reduction in departure fees.
Do These Fees Affect Everyone?
The UDF is applicable to most passengers, but there are some exemptions. Typically, transit or transfer passengers who are travelling onward within 24 hours on the same ticket are exempt from these fees. Standard airport UDF policies also often exempt infants (children under two years of age) from these charges, though passengers should confirm with their airline. The fees are automatically included in the price of your airline ticket by the airlines, so there is no need to pay anything separately at the airport. The final price you pay when booking your flight should already have the correct UDF incorporated.
Why Were the Fees Changed?
The new tariff structure was introduced by AERA to better align the costs of airport development with their actual use. A key reason for the change is the adoption of a new 'Incremental' framework. This passenger-friendly model ensures that travellers will only be charged for major new infrastructure projects—like new terminals or runways—after they are completed and operational. This prevents passengers from paying upfront for facilities that are still under construction. The restructuring also includes revised landing charges for airlines, which can indirectly influence airfares.
What Should Passengers Do?
For travelers, the most important step is to be aware of these changes when booking flights to or from Bengaluru for travel dates on or after September 1, 2026. When you purchase a ticket, it's always a good practice to review the detailed fare breakdown provided by the airline or travel portal. This will show you the base fare, taxes, and various fees, including the UDF. By checking this breakdown, you can see exactly how much you are being charged for airport usage and confirm that the new rates have been applied correctly to your ticket. No other action is required, as the collection is handled by the airlines.
