A Guide to Jodhpur Airport: Serving Rajasthan's Blue City

The history of aviation in Jodhpur dates back to 1924 when Maharaja Umaid Singh cleared a landing strip near the Umaid Bhawan Palace, then known as the Chittar Palace. This initial strip was intended for private operations, laying the groundwork for what would become a major regional airport.

The development of the aerodrome during this era involved a financial investment of 136,830 rupees. This foundational infrastructure allowed the city to transition from private landings to more structured aviation activities in the following decade.

In 1931, the Maharaja established the Jodhpur Flying Club, marking it as the first of its kind in an Indian princely state. Geoffrey Goodwin, a flight instructor from Johannesburg, South Africa, was appointed to lead the club's training efforts.

The club began its operations with two De Havilland DH.60 Moth aircraft acquired from the Delhi Flying Club. By 1932, the institution achieved another milestone by becoming the first in India to induct the De Havilland Tiger Moth trainer biplane.

Today, Jodhpur Airport operates under the management of the Airports Authority of India. It continues to play a vital role in regional connectivity while maintaining its strategic importance as a base for the Indian Air Force.

The recent expansion in July 2026 reflects the airport's evolution. The addition of a new terminal ensures the facility can manage the increasing passenger traffic that has surpassed one million travelers annually.