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.

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Andhra Pradesh government is preparing for the grand inauguration of Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, located at Bhogapuram, on August 1. Situated in Vizianagaram district, the new airport is expected to become a major aviation hub for North Coastal Andhra Pradesh. The inauguration ceremony will combine infrastructure development with a vibrant showcase of the region’s tribal culture.

13,000 Performers to Attempt Guinness World Record

One of the biggest attractions of the Bhogapuram Airport inauguration will be a massive Dhimsa dance performance. Around 13,000 tribal women and female students will perform the traditional dance simultaneously in an attempt to set a Guinness World Record. The event has been planned to showcase the rich cultural heritage of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh while marking the opening of one of the state’s most significant infrastructure projects.

Grand Cultural Welcome for Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport. A special cultural welcome has been planned for his arrival. As the Prime Minister travels through the venue in an open-top jeep, participants will perform the Dhimsa dance along the route, allowing attendees to witness the synchronized cultural presentation.

433 Groups to Perform in Perfect Synchronization

To ensure smooth execution, organizers have divided the participants into 433 groups. Each group will perform in circular formations, creating a visually striking display of the traditional tribal dance. Officials have conducted detailed planning and rehearsals to coordinate the large-scale performance.

Traditional Dress to Highlight Tribal Heritage

The performers will wear coordinated traditional attire during the event. Tribal women and students will be dressed in pink sarees with green borders and matching green blouses. The colorful costumes are expected to enhance the visual appeal of the cultural performance and reflect the traditions of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh.

Andhra Pradesh Government Allocates Rs 1 Crore

The state government has earmarked Rs 1 crore for organizing the inaugural celebrations. The budget will cover cultural performances, venue arrangements, participant management, security, and other logistical requirements. Officials are working to ensure the event is conducted smoothly and on a grand scale.

With Bhogapuram Airport flights expected to begin commercial operations soon, the new facility is expected to reduce congestion at Visakhapatnam Airport and strengthen tourism, trade, and investment in the region. The inauguration also serves as a platform to celebrate the cultural identity of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh through one of the largest-ever Dhimsa dance performances.

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Frequently Asked Questions 

How far is Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport from Visakhapatnam city?
The new airport at Bhogapuram is approximately 45–50 km from Visakhapatnam city. The journey usually takes 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

I already booked my flight from Visakhapatnam Airport. Do I need to change my ticket?
No. If you’re traveling on or after August 17, 2026, you generally do not need to rebook your ticket. Your flight will operate from Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, Bhogapuram, and the VTZ airport code will remain the same. Check your updated itinerary or airline notifications before your journey.

Will I need to rebook my ticket after the airport shift?
No. In most cases, passengers will not need to book a new ticket. Airlines are expected to transfer bookings to the new airport automatically. However, always verify your updated itinerary before your travel date.

How can I confirm whether my flight will depart from Bhogapuram Airport?
You can confirm your departure airport by checking your airline’s website or mobile app using your PNR. You may also contact the airline’s customer care for confirmation.

When should I leave Visakhapatnam city for the new airport?
Plan to leave at least 4 hours before your flight. This allows enough time for the 75–120-minute drive from Visakhapatnam and the recommended 2-hour early arrival for domestic flights.

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Commercial flight operations will move from Visakhapatnam Airport to the newly developed Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport in Bhogapuram from 12:01 a.m. on August 17, 2026, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has announced. From that date, all scheduled domestic and international passenger flights will operate from the new airport in Vizianagaram district.

INS Dega to Continue Military Operations

The Civil Enclave at INS Dega will stop handling commercial flights after the transition. However, the airbase will continue to operate for the Indian Air Force and remain available during national emergencies. It will also serve aircraft operated by the armed forces, police, and special government VIP flights.

VTZ Code Assigned to the New Airport

The Ministry has confirmed that the IATA code “VTZ,” currently used by Visakhapatnam Airport, will be transferred to the new airport from August 17. In a separate notification, the government officially renamed Bhogapuram Greenfield Airport as Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, with immediate effect.

Inauguration Scheduled for August 1

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the airport on August 1. Developed at a cost of nearly Rs 4,727 crore, the project was completed in 31 months, nearly five months ahead of schedule, making it one of India’s fastest-completed Greenfield international airports. The airport has already secured the DGCA aerodrome license along with all mandatory safety, fire, and environmental clearances required to begin commercial operations.

Capacity and Future Expansion Plans

The first phase has the capacity to handle 6 million passengers annually. The master plan allows expansion to 40 million passengers a year in future phases. Officials expect the airport to strengthen tourism, industrial investment, exports, logistics, and the aerospace and defence sectors across the erstwhile Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam districts.

Modern Infrastructure and Passenger Facilities

The integrated project covers 2,703.26 acres, including:

• 2,203.32 acres for airport infrastructure
• 500 acres for an aviation hub
• 136.63 acres for an Aviation University and EduCity

The airport features a 3,800-meter Code-E runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 777, Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Airbus A330, and Airbus A340. It is equipped with advanced airfield lighting, navigation systems, and CNS/ATM infrastructure to support both domestic and international operations.

Passengers will also have access to modern facilities, including contact boarding bridges, the Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS), self-baggage drop, self-service check-in, smart surveillance, integrated security management, and an Integrated Operational Control and Monitoring Centre.

The launch of Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport marks a new era for Andhra Pradesh’s aviation sector. With flights shifting from Visakhapatnam, the airport is set to boost connectivity, passenger traffic, and regional growth.

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