The Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram began commercial flight operations on Monday, Aug. 17, 2024 [1].
The opening marks a significant shift in regional aviation infrastructure as scheduled services move away from the Visakhapatnam civil enclave at INS Dega. This transition aims to expand the state's capacity to handle air traffic and support economic growth in the Vizianagaram district.
IndiGo operated the inaugural flight arriving from Hyderabad [1]. The aircraft received a ceremonial water-cannon salute upon landing, and passengers on the flight were provided with special gifts as part of the reception [2].
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the airport on Aug. 1, 2024 [3]. The facility is designed to modernize air travel for the region, with an initial annual passenger capacity of six [4].
The shift to Bhogapuram follows a strategic plan to move commercial aviation away from military-managed sites. By relocating scheduled services, the state reduces congestion at INS Dega and provides a dedicated civilian hub for international and domestic travel [5].
Located in the Vizianagaram district near Visakhapatnam, the airport is part of a broader effort to enhance connectivity in Andhra Pradesh. The transition to the new site is intended to provide a more scalable environment for airline operators and travelers alike [5].
“The Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram began commercial flight operations on Monday, Aug. 17, 2024.”
The transition from the INS Dega civil enclave to a dedicated international airport reduces the operational friction between military and civilian aviation. By establishing a standalone hub at Bhogapuram, Andhra Pradesh is positioning the Visakhapatnam region for higher passenger volumes and potential international routes that were previously limited by the constraints of a naval air station.
