Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Port Blair Airport at a Glance (History & Importance)
- Best Time to Visit Andamans (and Fly to Port Blair)
- How to Reach Port Blair (Flights to IXZ)
- Arrivals & Getting Into the City
- Departures & Check-in Tips
- Facilities & Services at the Airport
- Top Things to Do After You Land
- Nearby Attractions from the Airport
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Accommodation Options in Port Blair
- Estimated Costs
- Travel Tips & Etiquette
- Tips for Different Travelers
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Veer Savarkar International Airport (IATA: IXZ) in Port Blair is the primary gateway to India’s emerald Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Compact, efficient, and close to the city, it’s the landing point for beach getaways on Swaraj Dweep (Havelock), Shaheed Dweep (Neil), and snorkeling havens like Jolly Buoy. This guide covers everything you need—arrivals and departures, ground transport, facilities, rules, nearby attractions, and practical budgeting—so your island holiday starts smoothly.
Port Blair Airport at a Glance (History & Importance)
- Official name: Veer Savarkar International Airport (Port Blair), South Andaman.
- Role: Main air link between the Indian mainland and Andamans; shared civil–military airfield with the Indian Navy, so security protocols are strict.
- Terminal: A modern integrated terminal began operations in 2023, improving check-in, security, and boarding capacity with aerobridges and expanded amenities.
- International status: “International” by designation; scheduled flights are predominantly domestic. Always check your ticket for terminal and reporting instructions.
- Proximity: The airport sits just a short drive from Aberdeen Bazaar (central Port Blair), making transfers quick and easy.
- Why it matters: Nearly all travelers to the Andamans begin and end here—timely flights and smooth transfers are essential for catching inter-island ferries and tours.
Best Time to Visit Andamans (and Fly to Port Blair)
- October–May: Best weather for beaches and ferries; clearer seas for diving/snorkeling; peak season is December–February.
- June–September (Monsoon): Expect heavy rain and choppy seas; flights usually operate, but ferries and some water activities can be disrupted.
- Pricing: Airfares and hotel rates rise over long weekends and holidays—book early for winter travel.
How to Reach Port Blair (Flights to IXZ)
Port Blair is connected by direct flights from major Indian cities. Typical nonstop or one-stop routes operate from:
- Chennai & Kolkata: Most frequent gateways; flight time roughly 2–2.5 hours.
- Bengaluru & Hyderabad: Regular services; about 2.5–3.5 hours.
- Delhi & others: Seasonal or via one-stop options; around 4–5 hours total, depending on routing.
Airlines commonly serving IXZ include major Indian carriers with varying schedules across seasons. Verify current schedules and fares well in advance, especially during peak travel months.
Arrivals & Getting Into the City
Immigration & Security
- Domestic arrivals: Standard baggage claim and exit; carry a valid government ID.
- Foreign nationals: Most tourist islands (including Port Blair, Swaraj Dweep, and Shaheed Dweep) are open without a special Restricted Area Permit for tourism; some protected islands remain off-limits. Always carry your passport and visa.
Airport to City Transport
- Prepaid taxis: Available at official counters in the arrivals area; reliable fares to city hotels and jetties.
- Auto-rickshaws: Easy to find outside the terminal for short hops.
- App cabs: Availability varies; don’t rely solely on rideshare apps.
- Public buses: Limited and not ideal with luggage; most travelers use taxi/auto.
Transfer times: 10–20 minutes to Aberdeen Bazaar; 15–25 minutes to Corbyn’s Cove side hotels, depending on traffic.
Cash & Connectivity on Arrival
- ATMs: Available at the airport and Aberdeen Bazaar; carry some cash as smaller islands have limited card facilities.
- SIM & network: Airtel, BSNL, and Jio operate; data speeds are best in Port Blair and reduce on outer islands.
Departures & Check-in Tips
- Report early: Aim for 2–2.5 hours before domestic departures—queues can build in peak season.
- Security: Military co-use means firm screening; keep IDs and boarding passes handy from entry to gate.
- Bags: Comply with airline weight limits. Avoid packing seashells, corals, or sand—these are prohibited.
- Ferry-to-flight buffer: If returning from Havelock/Neil the same day, choose early ferries and leave ample buffer (weather can delay boats).
Facilities & Services at the Airport
- Food & beverage: Cafés and snack counters serving Indian staples, tea/coffee, and light meals.
- Shops: Souvenir kiosks, books, and essentials; no typical duty-free for outbound domestic flights.
- Wi‑Fi: May be available; connectivity can be inconsistent compared to mainland airports.
- ATMs & forex: ATMs available; currency exchange options are limited—arrive with Indian rupees.
- Baby care & medical: Basic facilities and first-aid available.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair assistance on request via airlines; ramps and elevators in the terminal.
- Lounge: Availability may vary by airline and season; check with your carrier.
- Left luggage: No standard left-luggage/locker facility—plan to keep bags with you.
Top Things to Do After You Land
Make the most of your first day in Port Blair:
- Cellular Jail (Kala Pani): Explore India’s freedom struggle history; evening light-and-sound show is popular.
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach: A relaxed sunset spot within a short drive from town.
- Samudrika Marine Museum & Fisheries Museum: Understand island ecology and marine life.
- Chidiya Tapu (Bird Island): Great for sunset and nature; allow half a day with return.
- Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island): Ruins, deer, and history—short boat ride from Water Sports Complex.
Nearby Attractions from the Airport
- Aberdeen Bazaar: 10–20 minutes; good for last-minute essentials and snacks.
- Cellular Jail: About 15–20 minutes depending on traffic.
- Water Sports Complex: For boats to Ross Island and short rides; roughly 20 minutes.
- Corbyn’s Cove: Around 15–25 minutes; ideal if you have a few hours before check-in.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Seafood specialties: Fish curry, grilled catch of the day, crab and prawn dishes.
- Vegetarian-friendly: South Indian thalis, dosas, and island-style coconut-based curries.
- What to try: Fresh tender coconut, banana chips, and local desserts.
Shopping
- Buy: Spices, wooden handicrafts, island textiles, fridge magnets.
- Avoid: Corals, seashells, turtle products—buying/possessing them is illegal.
Culture
- Respect protected areas: Entry to tribal reserves and certain islands is prohibited.
- Eco practices: Carry back your waste; single-use plastic is restricted in many zones.
Accommodation Options in Port Blair
- Budget (INR 1,200–2,500 per night): Guesthouses near Aberdeen Bazaar; convenient for markets and ferries.
- Mid-range (INR 3,000–6,000): City hotels and boutique stays in Phoenix Bay/Delanipur areas.
- Premium (INR 7,000–15,000+): Resorts near Corbyn’s Cove or sea-view properties for a quieter first night.
Location tip: If catching early ferries, choose stays close to Phoenix Bay/Water Sports Complex for shorter morning transfers.
Estimated Costs
- Flights (one-way, mainland–Port Blair): INR 5,000–14,000+ depending on route and season.
- Airport–city taxi: Approximately INR 200–500 based on distance and time.
- Day taxi hire in Port Blair: INR 2,500–3,500 for 8 hours (vehicle type/season dependent).
- Ferries to Swaraj Dweep/Neil: INR 1,000–1,800 per person (class and operator dependent).
- Activities: Cellular Jail entry and show INR 300–500; introductory scuba INR 3,500–6,000; snorkeling trips INR 800–2,000.
Note: Prices fluctuate seasonally; book in advance around holidays.
Travel Tips & Etiquette
- Buffer time: Keep generous buffers between flights and ferry connections.
- What not to carry: No corals, shells, or sand; drones and satellite phones require permissions and are generally restricted.
- Permits: Standard tourist circuits don’t need special permits; some islands/forest reserves do—check locally before planning.
- Cash vs cards: Port Blair is card-friendly, but carry cash for smaller islands and roadside eateries.
- Connectivity: Internet can be patchy; download offline maps, tickets, and confirmations.
- Health: Use reef-safe sunscreen, stay hydrated, and carry motion-sickness tablets for ferries.
- Respect zones: Photography is restricted in parts of the airport and defense areas—follow signage.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Request stroller/wheelchair assistance via your airline if needed; arrive early to avoid queues.
- Pack snacks and kid-friendly entertainment; baby rooms are available but limited.
- Choose hotels near ferry jetties to minimize transfers with luggage.
Honeymooners
- Plan a relaxed first evening in Port Blair, then head to Swaraj Dweep for beaches and dives.
- Pick sunset-facing rooms or Corbyn’s Cove area for a quieter vibe.
- Confirm Wi‑Fi expectations—many couples prefer to unplug; connectivity is naturally slower.
Friends/Backpackers
- Use prepaid taxis or share autos; consider scooters at island destinations (licenses required).
- Book ferries early in peak season; carry light to avoid multiple bag scans.
- Look for budget stays near Aberdeen Bazaar for easy access to buses and eateries.
FAQs
Q: How early should I reach Port Blair Airport for a domestic flight?
A: Arrive 2–2.5 hours before departure, especially in peak season, to clear entry, security, and potential queues.
Q: Are there baggage storage or lockers at the airport?
A: No standard left-luggage facility is available. Keep your bags with you or coordinate with your hotel.
Q: Can I buy or carry seashells and coral from the islands?
A: No. Buying, collecting, or transporting corals, shells, and turtle products is illegal. You may face fines and confiscation at airport checks.
Q: Are app-based cabs available at Port Blair Airport?
A: Availability is limited. Use the prepaid taxi counter or auto-rickshaws for reliable transfers.
Q: Do I need special permits to visit Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) or Neil (Shaheed Dweep)?
A: For standard tourism, no special permit is required. Certain protected islands/areas do require permissions—check locally for current rules.
Conclusion
Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport is a well-placed, traveler-friendly entry point to the Andamans. With straightforward transfers, growing facilities, and quick access to city sights, it sets you up for smooth ferry connections and island adventures. Time your visit outside the monsoon for the best conditions, respect local environmental rules, and keep practical buffers between flights and boats. With this airport guide, your Andaman journey begins with clarity and ease.
