Kadapa Airport serves as a vital gateway to one of Andhra Pradesh's historically rich cities. The airport has witnessed remarkable transformation since its establishment in 1953, evolving from a modest regional facility to a modernizing hub that connects travelers to key destinations across India. Whether you're planning your first visit or seeking updated information about the airport's facilities and services, this comprehensive guide covers everything essential for a smooth travel experience.
Kadapa Airport operates under the IATA code CDP and ICAO code VOCP. The facility sits at an elevation of 430 feet above sea level and follows UTC +6 hours for its operations. Built in 1953, the airport has been receiving continuous development attention since 2007 to meet growing passenger demands and modern aviation standards.
The airport's location makes it easily accessible from the city center. Travelers will find the terminal positioned approximately 10 kilometers north of Kadapa's main urban area, though some measurements place it at 4.1 miles or 6.5 kilometers depending on the specific reference point within the city.
Two primary addresses are associated with the airport: the operational address at Airport Road, Near Mahanandi, Kadapa andhra Pradesh 516213 and the terminal building location at Kamalapuram - Ayyavaripalli Rd, Thimmapuram, Samudrampalli andhra Pradesh 516003.
The city near Kadapa Airport was historically known as Cuddapah during British colonial rule which explains why the airport still carries this alternative name in some references. The name Kadapa originates from the Telugu word "Gadapa," which translates to gateway or threshold. This etymology holds geographical significance as the city serves as the gateway to the Tirumala hills and sits strategically near the Penna River.
Kadapa has a rich historical tapestry, having been governed by various powerful dynasties including the Pallavas, Chalukyas and Cholas. Today, the city maintains a population of approximately 300,000 people and functions as a major urban center in southern Andhra Pradesh. The area is recognized for its vibrant cultural heritage, featuring numerous ancient Hindu temples with intricate architecture, alongside mosques and historical monuments that reflect its diverse past.
The city offers visitors multiple attractions worth exploring. Devuni Kadapa, meaning 'Old Kadapa,' presents excellent sightseeing opportunities with landmarks like the Sri Lakshmi Venkateshwara Swamy temple drawing both pilgrims and tourists. Beyond the city limits, the Gandikota Fort area provides dramatic views overlooking the gorge of the Penna River, accompanied by fascinating historical ruins. The region also maintains beautiful parks and gardens while the University of Cuddapah and various educational institutions contribute to its academic landscape.
Kadapa functions as an important transport hub with connectivity extending through its railway station, the airport and major highways linking it to other regional cities. The city's vibrant markets offer local shopping experiences while its cuisine and lively nightlife have made it an increasingly popular destination for domestic tourists.
The airport infrastructure has undergone substantial upgrades throughout the decades. As of April 2024, the runway measures 2,514 meters in length with a 45-meter width, a significant expansion from its previous dimensions of 1,517 meters and 2,000 meters respectively. The current runway can accommodate ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft, with the apron area expanded to handle seven ATR-72 type aircraft simultaneously, compared to just two aircraft in 2023.
The existing terminal was constructed in 2012 and currently operates with a peak-hour capacity of 100 passengers. The airport functions as a regional facility handling exclusively domestic flights, maintaining its operations 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Contact can be made through telephone number 08567 252424 or via email at info@aai.aero.
Recognizing the need to accommodate increasing passenger traffic and stimulate regional socio-economic development, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Government of Andhra Pradesh proposed a significant terminal expansion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for this new terminal on 10 March 2024, marking a milestone in the airport's development trajectory.
Project Specifications:
Operational Features:
The new terminal will feature 24 check-in counters to streamline passenger processing, supported by two conveyor belts and three X-ray baggage scanning machines for security procedures. Three aerobridges will provide direct aircraft boarding, eliminating the need for tarmac walks in adverse weather conditions.
Passenger Amenities:
Travelers can expect modern conveniences including escalators and elevators for easy movement between levels. The terminal will house restaurants and retail stores for dining and shopping needs, along with comfortable lounges for waiting passengers.
Special attention has been given to accessibility, with dedicated facilities designed for physically challenged passengers and senior citizens to ensure comfortable navigation throughout the terminal.
Sustainability Initiatives:
Environmental consciousness shapes the terminal's design through multiple green features. Adequate greenery will be maintained throughout the premises to create a pleasant atmosphere while improving air quality.
Rainwater harvesting systems will be installed to conserve water resources and the terminal will utilize solar power for its electricity consumption, reducing its carbon footprint and operational costs.
Supporting Infrastructure:
The expansion extends beyond the terminal building itself. Parking facilities will accommodate 375 cars, addressing the growing need for vehicle storage. Additionally, key roads connecting Kadapa to major cities including Bengaluru, Tirupati and Nellore will undergo widening to handle increased traffic flow following the terminal's completion.
Construction work is scheduled to commence in the latter half of 2024, with completion projected for 2026 or 2027, representing a 2-3 year development timeline.
The airport currently has two airlines providing services. IndiGo operates from Terminal 2, offering connections to Chennai, Hyderabad and Vijayawada. TruJet operates from Terminal 1, adding to the airport's connectivity options.
Flight operations at Kadapa Airport have experienced some turbulence in recent years. Regular services to Chennai, Hyderabad and Vijayawada were available starting from 2015, but these routes faced cancellation in 2021.
IndiGo has since entered into an agreement with the Government of Andhra Pradesh to restore and maintain flight operations from the airport, working to bring consistency back to this regional facility that had suffered from erratic scheduling.
For travelers seeking alternative airports in the region, IndiGo also serves nearby facilities. Tirupati Airport offers direct flights from Bengaluru, Madurai and Kolhapur while Kurnool Airport provides connections to Bengaluru, Chennai and Visakhapatnam. For international travel needs, Tirupati International Airport stands as the closest option, located approximately 140 kilometers from Kadapa.
Passengers can track their flight status through www.goindigo.in/check-flight-status.html for real-time updates on departures and arrivals.
Multiple transportation options connect the city to the airport, each with different cost structures and convenience levels:
Taxi Services: Regular taxis provide the most direct option for airport transfers, with fares ranging from INR 300 to 400 from Kadapa city to the airport. Private taxi services operate throughout the city with similar pricing between INR 200 to 300, offering flexibility in scheduling and pickup locations.
Public Bus: The Kadapa Municipal Corporation operates bus services from various parts of the city to the airport, representing the most economical choice. Bus tickets cost approximately INR 100 to 150, making this option ideal for budget-conscious travelers willing to accommodate longer travel times and multiple stops.
Train Connection: Kadapa Railway Station is positioned 5 kilometers from the airport. Travelers using train services can expect ticket costs around INR 200 to 300, though they will need additional transportation to cover the distance between the railway station and airport terminal.
App-Based Cabs: Modern conveniences include the availability of app-based cab services like Uber which can be booked directly from the airport to the city center or vice versa, providing transparent pricing and tracking features.
Despite being a regional airport with basic infrastructure, Kadapa Airport provides essential facilities to ensure passenger comfort and safety:
Accessibility Services: Wheelchairs are available for passengers with mobility challenges, ensuring that elderly travelers and those with physical disabilities can navigate the terminal comfortably.
Medical Support: First aid and basic medical facilities are stationed at the Arrivals area, ready to address any health concerns or emergencies that may arise during travel.
Baggage Handling: Free trolleys are provided throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to transport their luggage easily from check-in counters to boarding areas and vice versa.
Connectivity: Mobile charging spots are distributed across the airport, enabling travelers to keep their devices powered during wait times, particularly important for accessing boarding passes and staying connected with transportation services.
Basic Amenities: Clean washroom facilities are maintained throughout the terminal for passenger convenience.
Important Advisory: The airport currently does not operate any food stalls or restaurants past the security checkpoint. Travelers should plan accordingly by eating before security screening or bringing their own snacks for consumption while waiting at the gate.
Kadapa Airport maintains a dedicated Lost and Found department to assist passengers who may have misplaced belongings during their travel. The office is located within the Airport Terminal Building, Kadapa andhra Pradesh – 516002. Passengers can contact the department at +91 8562 252525 during operating hours which run from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Sunday. Items reported lost or found are logged and stored according to standard procedures, with staff available to help reunite travelers with their belongings.
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1. What is the airport code for Kadapa Airport?
Kadapa Airport operates under the IATA code CDP and ICAO code VOCP. The airport is also sometimes referred to as Cuddapah Airport, reflecting the city's former name during British colonial rule.
2. How far is Kadapa Airport from the city center?
The airport is located approximately 10 kilometers north of Kadapa's main urban area. Depending on traffic conditions, the journey typically takes 15-25 minutes by taxi or private vehicle.
3. Which airlines currently operate flights from Kadapa Airport?
Two airlines currently provide services at Kadapa Airport. IndiGo operates from Terminal 2 with connections to Chennai, Hyderabad and Vijayawada while TruJet operates from Terminal 1, offering additional connectivity options.
4. Are there food options available at Kadapa Airport?
The airport currently does not have any food stalls or restaurants past the security checkpoint. Travelers are advised to eat before going through security screening or bring their own snacks and water bottles for consumption while waiting at the gate.
5. What transportation options are available to reach Kadapa Airport?
Multiple options connect the city to the airport: regular taxis (INR 300-400), private taxi services (INR 200-300), public buses operated by Kadapa Municipal Corporation (INR 100-150), train connections from Kadapa Railway Station located 5 km away (INR 200-300) and app-based cab services like Uber with transparent pricing.
6. When will the new terminal at Kadapa Airport be completed?
Construction on the new terminal is scheduled to begin in the latter half of 2024, with completion projected for 2026 or 2027. The expanded facility will accommodate 2.5 million annual passengers compared to the current capacity of 100 passengers during peak hours.
7. Does Kadapa Airport offer facilities for passengers with disabilities?
Yes, the airport provides wheelchairs for passengers with mobility challenges, ensuring elderly travelers and those with physical disabilities can navigate the terminal comfortably. The upcoming new terminal will include enhanced specialized facilities for physically challenged passengers and senior citizens.
8. What is the closest international airport to Kadapa?
Tirupati International Airport is the closest international airport to Kadapa, located approximately 140 kilometers away. This makes it the primary option for travelers requiring international flight connections from the Kadapa region.
9. Can I contact the airport for lost and found inquiries?
Yes, Kadapa Airport maintains a dedicated Lost and Found department located within the Airport Terminal Building. You can contact them at +91 8562 252525 during operating hours from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Sunday.
10. What facilities will the new Kadapa Airport terminal include?
The new terminal will feature 24 check-in counters, three aerobridges, escalators and elevators, restaurants and retail stores, comfortable lounges, parking for 375 cars, specialized facilities for disabled and senior passengers, rainwater harvesting systems and solar power electricity. The entire project represents an investment of ₹266 crore (approximately US$31 million).
