Nearest Airport to Andaman and Nicobar: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a tropical paradise in the Bay of Bengal, are best accessed by air. As an island territory, Andaman does not have multiple airports on different islands. Instead, there is one major airport that acts as the primary gateway for travelers from mainland India and abroad.
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Nearest Airport to Andaman and Nicobar:
Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) – The Only Airport in Andaman
- Location: Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Airport Code: IXZ
- Distance from Main Attractions: 2 km from the city center of Port Blair
- Type of Airport: Domestic with limited international connections
Connectivity
Veer Savarkar International Airport, also known as Port Blair Airport, is the only airport in Andaman. It connects the islands to major Indian cities like:
- Chennai
- Kolkata
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Bengaluru
- Hyderabad
Several airlines, including IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara, operate daily flights to and from Port Blair. While it is officially classified as an international airport, there are currently no direct international flights, but plans are in place to expand its global reach.
How to Reach Andaman by Air?
Since Andaman is a remote island destination, flights are the fastest and most convenient way to reach it. Travelers usually fly from:
- Chennai: ~2-hour flight
- Kolkata: ~2.5-hour flight
- Delhi & Mumbai: ~5-hour flight (with layovers in Chennai or Kolkata)
- Bengaluru & Hyderabad: ~3 to 4-hour flight (direct or via Chennai)
Most flights to Andaman originate from Chennai and Kolkata, as they are the nearest major Indian cities with frequent direct connections.
Getting Around Andaman from the Airport
Once you land at Veer Savarkar International Airport, there are multiple ways to reach different parts of Andaman:
1. Taxi Services
Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs operate from the airport, making it easy to reach resorts, hotels, and ferry points.
2. Auto Rickshaws
A budget-friendly option for short-distance travel within Port Blair.
3. Rental Scooters & Bikes
Ideal for travelers who want to explore the island at their own pace.
4. Inter-Island Ferries & Boats
If your destination is Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) or Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), you can take a ferry from the Phoenix Bay Jetty, which is about 15 minutes from the airport.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Trip to Andaman
- Book Flights in Advance: Andaman is a popular tourist spot, so flights fill up quickly, especially in peak season (October–March).
- Carry a Valid ID: Since Andaman is a Union Territory of India, Indian citizens don’t need a visa but must carry government-approved ID proof. Foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
- Check Luggage Policies: Some airlines have baggage restrictions for flights to Port Blair.
- Plan Transport from the Airport: If you need a ferry to another island, align your flight timings accordingly.
- Be Prepared for Limited Internet Access: Network connectivity can be weak on certain islands, so download maps and important travel details in advance.
Final Thoughts
Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair is the only airport in Andaman and serves as the main entry point for all air travelers.
Since it is well-connected to Chennai and Kolkata, flying from these cities is the best way to reach Andaman. Once you land, local transport and ferry services make it easy to explore this breathtaking island paradise.