AP targets global air connectivity boost

kiranmai tutika I amaravati

To boost tourism, trade and global mobility, Andhra Pradesh is preparing to expand international air connectivity by introducing new direct flight services from Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and Tirupati airports. The state government, along with aviation teams and airport authorities, is actively working on plans to add new international routes in response to growing passenger demand and industry requirements.

Currently, international air services from Andhra Pradesh operate primarily through Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ), Vijayawada International Airport (VGA) and Tirupati International Airport (TIR). These airports offer direct and connecting flights to key destinations such as Singapore, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

State officials aim to transform Andhra Pradesh into a major aviation hub in South India by strengthening global connectivity. Enhanced international flight services are expected to benefit expatriates, business travelers and tourists while significantly boosting economic activity. “Improved international connectivity will give a strong push to tourism, trade and employment in the state,” said Virender Singh, Director of Andhra Pradesh Airport Development Corporation.

Visakhapatnam International Airport continues to serve as the state’s primary international gateway, with direct flights to Singapore, Sri Lanka and Abu Dhabi. Due to its strategic coastal location and expanding industrial base, Visakhapatnam has become a preferred choice for international travelers from North Andhra and neighboring states. Authorities are planning to add more destinations in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, further strengthening its position as a global aviation hub.

Vijayawada International Airport at Gannavaram has recorded steady growth and currently operates international flights to Singapore and Sharjah. The airport caters to professionals, students and business travelers from the Krishna–Guntur region. Officials are exploring new routes to Dubai, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, especially with the rapid development of the Amaravati capital region increasing demand for international travel.

Tirupati International Airport plays a vital role in serving millions of pilgrims visiting the Tirumala temple annually. The airport already handles international passenger traffic, particularly to Southeast Asian destinations. Improved connectivity to countries with large Indian diaspora populations is expected to attract more foreign devotees and strengthen religious tourism.

Major Indian carriers such as Air India, Air India Express and IndiGo currently provide international connectivity from Andhra Pradesh. The state government is in discussions with airlines to introduce new routes and is also exploring viability gap funding where required.

Tourism and industry leaders believe enhanced air connectivity will promote Andhra Pradesh’s beaches, heritage sites, Buddhist circuits and temple tourism, while also attracting foreign investment. The state government is expected to hold further consultations with airlines and the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation in the coming months as Andhra Pradesh moves closer to expanding its global aviation footprint.