Visakhapatnam Airport ended scheduled commercial flight operations on August 16, 2026, as airlines moved their services to the newly opened Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram. Travelers flying to or from Visakhapatnam now use the Bhogapuram facility instead of the Civil Enclave at INS Dega.
Visakhapatnam Airport Halts Regular Passenger Flights
Visakhapatnam Airport served as a key gateway connecting the city and nearby areas with major destinations across India. After serving the region for several decades, Visakhapatnam Airport ended its regular commercial passenger flight operations. IndiGo operated the last scheduled commercial flight, 6E 2018 to Delhi, from the Civil Enclave at INS Dega on August 16, 2026. Following the closure of scheduled services, airlines moved their regular passenger flights to the new airport at Bhogapuram.
Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport Now Handles Visakhapatnam Flights
From August 17, travelers flying to or from Visakhapatnam must use Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Vizianagaram district. The airport began scheduled commercial operations shortly after midnight, and airlines shifted their regular Visakhapatnam flights to the new facility.
What Happens to the VTZ Airport Code?
Travelers should also note the change involving the VTZ airport code. Airport authorities transferred the VTZ code to Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport on August 17, 2026. Travelers will continue to see VTZ on flight tickets, airline websites and booking platforms. However, VTZ now refers to Bhogapuram Airport for scheduled passenger services. Passengers should check the full airport name along with the VTZ code before traveling.
Is Visakhapatnam Airport Shut Down Permanently?
No. Visakhapatnam Airport has not completely closed. It has stopped scheduled commercial passenger flights, but non-scheduled commercial operations may continue. The Indian Navy also continues to operate INS Dega. The Airports Authority of India will continue coordinating with the Indian Navy to support non-scheduled civil aviation operations at the facility.
Important Points to Note for Passengers
Passengers with upcoming flights should keep the following points in mind:
- Check the full airport name on your ticket or airline app.
- Remember that VTZ now refers to Bhogapuram Airport for scheduled passenger flights.
- Do not travel to the Civil Enclave at INS Dega for a regular passenger flight.
- Check your flight status and airline updates before leaving for the airport.
- Allow enough time for the journey to Bhogapuram.
- Arrive early during the initial transition period.
These checks can help travelers avoid confusion during the transition.
The shift to Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport marks an important change for air travel in Andhra Pradesh. Although travelers will continue to see the familiar VTZ code, scheduled passenger flights now operate from Bhogapuram.
Travelers planning trips between India and the USA can explore Indian Eagle deals for affordable international flights and convenient booking options.
| Disclaimer: Indian Eagle claims no credit for the images featured on its blog site. All the visual content is copyrighted to its respective owners only. We mention the source name of the image whenever possible and found. However, if we miss acknowledging the owner’s source, please contact us. In case, owners don’t want us to use their images, we will remove them promptly. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist, and photographer. |
