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Bhogapuram Airport - Inauguration, Location, Codes, Distance
01 Aug 2026
Bhogapuram Airport, officially named Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, is Andhra Pradesh's newest international greenfield airport located in Bhogapuram, Vizianagaram district. Developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL) under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the airport is expected to significantly improve domestic and international connectivity for North Andhra Pradesh. It is designed to reduce congestion at the existing Visakhapatnam Airport while supporting tourism, trade, cargo movement, and regional economic development. The airport is also planned as the centrepiece of a future Aerocity development, making it one of the state's most important infrastructure projects.
One of the most frequently searched questions is about the Bhogapuram Airport opening date.
According to the references provided, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the airport on 1 August 2026, marking the formal opening of Andhra Pradesh's newest international airport.
However, the inauguration and passenger operations are separate milestones.
Reports indicate that commercial flight operations are expected to commence from 17 August 2026, after airlines complete the transition of services and operational arrangements.
Latest Updates About Bhogapuram Airport
Recent milestones include:
Validation flight successfully completed in January 2026.
Airport infrastructure substantially completed.
Air India flight schedules released for operations.
Prime Minister scheduled to inaugurate the airport on 1 August 2026.
Passenger flight operations expected from 17 August 2026.
Many travellers search for the Bhogapuram Airport code before booking flights.
The airport codes are VTZ (IATA) and VOVI (ICAO). The IATA code VTZ will be officially transferred from the old Visakhapatnam Airport starting 17 August 2026, coinciding with the commencement of commercial operations at Bhogapuram Airport.
IATA vs ICAO Code
IATA Code – A three-letter airport code used by passengers and airlines while booking tickets.
ICAO Code – A four-letter code used mainly for air traffic management and aviation operations.
Since airport codes may change or be officially assigned close to operational launch, travellers should always verify the latest code through airlines or official airport sources before booking.
Bhogapuram Airport to Vizag Distance
Bhogapuram Airport is located north of Visakhapatnam and will serve the city along with Vizianagaram and neighbouring districts.
Distance from Visakhapatnam
Approximate distance from Visakhapatnam city: 45–50 km
Estimated travel time: 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Road Connectivity
The airport is connected through the Visakhapatnam–Bhogapuram corridor, with the State Government developing supporting road infrastructure to improve access from Visakhapatnam and surrounding areas.
RTC Bus Services
According to recent reports, APSRTC has planned dedicated electric bus services between Visakhapatnam and Bhogapuram Airport.
The Hindu reports that the expected fare for RTC electric buses will be approximately ₹300 per passenger, offering an economical transport option for travellers.
Cab Services
Taxi services are also expected to operate between Visakhapatnam and the airport.
Depending on the pickup location and vehicle category, cab fares are expected to range between ₹800 and ₹1,500.
Bhogapuram Airport Started in Which Year?
The Bhogapuram Airport project has progressed through multiple stages over several years.
Project Announcement
The proposal for a greenfield international airport at Bhogapuram was conceived to meet the future aviation requirements of North Andhra Pradesh and reduce dependence on the existing civil enclave at Visakhapatnam.
Concession Award
According to GMR Airports, the concession for developing the airport was awarded in 2020 under the PPP model.
Foundation Stone
The foundation stone for the airport was laid on 3 May 2023, officially marking the beginning of construction activities.
Construction Timeline
The airport has been developed in a relatively short period for a project of this scale. It includes:
3,800-metre Code 4E runway
Integrated passenger terminal
Cargo terminal
Modern airside infrastructure
Capacity to handle 6 million passengers annually in Phase 1, with future expansion planned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Vizag Airport Be Closed After Bhogapuram Airport Opens?
Yes, commercial passenger operations are planned to shift from the existing Visakhapatnam Airport (INS Dega civil enclave) to Bhogapuram Airport after the new airport becomes operational. The existing airport will continue to function as a defence airbase under the Indian Navy. This transition is in line with the agreement executed between the Government of Andhra Pradesh and the Airports Authority of India for the development of the new greenfield airport.
Who Is the Owner of Bhogapuram Airport?
Bhogapuram Airport is being developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL), a subsidiary of the GMR Group, under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with the Government of Andhra Pradesh. GVIAL is responsible for the design, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance of the airport under a long-term concession agreement.
