Mangaluru International Airport: A Key Coastal Gateway in Karnataka

The airport's history dates back to December 25, 1951, when Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru inaugurated the facility. He marked the occasion by arriving on a Douglas DC-3 aircraft at what was then known as Bajpe Aerodrome.

In its early years, the airport primarily managed limited domestic routes, connecting passengers to major Indian hubs like Mumbai and Bengaluru. Over time, the facility has expanded its operations to include international service.

Situated approximately 13 kilometers northeast of the Mangaluru city centre, the airport is built on top of a hill. This geography results in the use of tabletop runways, specifically runways 09/27 and 06/24.

This architectural feature is rare in India. Mangaluru is one of only three airports in the country to feature tabletop runways, with the others being located in Kozhikode and Lengpui.

The terminal at Mangaluru International Airport has undergone significant changes since its inception. Originally a very small and basic facility, it saw major renovations during the early 2000s to improve the passenger experience.

Updates to the terminal included the introduction of parking controls, the addition of more seating areas, and the opening of new cafés to serve travelers passing through the coastal hub.