Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, located in Kolkata, West Bengal, is a vital gateway to eastern India and a significant player in international air travel. Operating since 1924, this international airport has evolved to cater to the growing demands of both domestic and international passengers. Its strategic position enhances connectivity within the region, making it a hub for travelers visiting India or transitioning to other parts of Asia. The airport serves as a nodal point for airlines around the world, providing access to major international cities alongside its robust domestic traffic. With two runways and facilities that accommodate millions of passengers annually, the airport is poised to support and enhance the burgeoning aviation market in India. As Kolkata continues to expand economically and culturally, the airport is at the forefront, offering modern amenities and services that cater to a diverse array of travelers.
Flights & airlines
Cargo: Handled by dedicated freight facilities and services
Terminal guide
Terminal 1 handles select domestic flights and has older but functional check-in infrastructure with dedicated counters on the ground floor. Security queues can be lengthy during morning peak hours (6–9 AM), so arrive at least 90 minutes before departure. The terminal connects to the Integrated Terminal building via an internal corridor, allowing some connectivity for onward journeys.
- • Arrive early during October–January peak season as queues build quickly
- • Limited food options compared to Terminal 2 — grab a meal before arriving if possible
Terminal 2 is the main integrated terminal handling both domestic and international operations under one roof, with international departures on the upper level and domestic on the lower level. IndiGo, Air India, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines all operate from here — verify your specific check-in island with your airline upon arrival. Post-security airside facilities include duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, a business centre, currency exchange, a children's play area, and a prayer room, all well-signposted in English and Bengali.
- • International passengers should arrive at least 3 hours before departure; immigration queues can be slow
- • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout but requires mobile OTP registration — have your Indian or international SIM ready
- • VIP and airline lounges are located post-security on the international departure level
Transfers: CCU effectively operates as a two-terminal campus; domestic-to-international transfers require exiting the secure zone, rechecking baggage, and clearing immigration, so allow a minimum of 3 hours for any connecting itinerary.
AI-assisted editorial — verify terminal assignments with your airline
Terminal facilities
Getting to the airport
Hotels near CCU
5-star hotel with top-notch amenities and services.
Ideal for business travelers with meeting facilities.
Elegantly designed with luxury and comfort.
Convenient location and modern facilities.
Affordable accommodation with basic amenities.
Recognized for budget stays in Kolkata.
Beyond the airport
Travel tips
- Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights.
- Familiarize yourself with the duty-free shopping rules.
- Keep your travel documents handy at all times.
- Use public transport to avoid heavy traffic during peak hours.
- Explore Kolkata's local cuisine at the airport food court.
Development: The airport is undergoing expansion to increase capacity and improve facilities, including a new terminal expected to be completed by 2025.
Frequently asked questions
Kolkata airport news
Traveler ratings — CCU
The new integrated terminal at CCU is genuinely impressive — wide corridors, decent signage, and the cleaning staff are visibly active throughout the day. Food options near Gate 7 are okay but overpriced for what you get; the Mainland China outlet was a bit disappointing honestly. Wi-Fi kept dropping during my two-hour wait, which was frustrating when I needed to send work emails.
The departure drop-off area is an absolute nightmare during peak morning hours — we circled three times before finding a spot and almost missed check-in. Security queues were long but the CISF personnel were at least polite and efficient once you reached the front. Toilets inside the terminal post-security were surprisingly clean and well-maintained, which I wasn't expecting honestly.
Flew out of Kolkata last month for a Bangalore trip and the Oh! Calcutta restaurant airside was a lovely touch — proper Bengali food before a flight is something special. Parking rates have gone up quite a bit and the short-stay area gets full very quickly, so plan accordingly if you're picking someone up. Overall the airport feels a bit worn in the older sections compared to the shiny new parts, but it gets the job done.
Last verified 2026-09-02. Airport information changes — always confirm critical details with the airport or your airline. Source: IndianAirports.com airport directory. Found something outdated? Report incorrect information.
Translate