About Kolhapur Airport: Everything You Need to Know for Travel

Kolhapur Airport gives you a simple way to start or end your trip in southern Maharashtra and it feels easy from the moment you reach the terminal. The airport is in Ujalaiwadi, close to the city and it carries the IATA code KLH and ICAO code VAKP which help airlines and travellers identify it quickly. 

The Kolhapur airport is handled by the Airports Authority of India and it has grown steadily over the past few years. It began operations decades ago and its went through a few quiet phases and later received important upgrades that shaped the present layout. 

The new terminal which opened in March 2024, adds brighter spaces, clearer signs and a simple flow that helps you move to check-in, security and the departure gates without effort. The overall experience stays calm and organised and it supports travellers who want a smooth journey through Kolhapur.

Kolhapur Airport sits in Ujalaiwadi which lies south-east of the city centre. The distance between Kolhapur Airport and the city is 9 km, although some travel guides list 9.8 km. The drive usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and the time depends on traffic along the main approach roads. 

The distance from Kolhapur Airport to Sangli stands at 34.5 km and this route remains common for passengers who move between the two cities for work or family visits. You can reach Kolhapur Airport by local taxis or private cars and these options provide the most consistent experience. 

App-based services do not operate in Kolhapur which means passengers rely on city taxis that stand outside the terminal. Bus services exist in limited numbers and you should check their timings before you plan your travel. The short distance and direct road layout keep the overall journey simple for most travellers.

Kolhapur Airport offers one domestic terminal that remains easy to navigate for new and regular passengers. The new terminal covers 3,900 square metres and it was built at a cost of ₹71 crore to improve passenger movement and comfort. The design supports a clear flow and you can find check-in counters, security points and waiting areas placed in a simple order. 

The airport operates with 9 - 10 check-in counters which keep every queue manageable during busy hours. The building can handle around 300 passengers per hour and the space feels balanced for the current and large traffic. The new ATC tower supports safer operations and airport systems now run much more smoothly because of improved equipment. 

The airport runs domestic operations through various airlines and it supports daily and weekly connections. The terminal stays open round the clock for arrivals and departures and it aims to offer a dependable environment where you can move without stress.

Kolhapur Airport manages its airside operations with a runway that currently measures 1,930 metres and this runway is being extended to 2,300 metres. The longer runway will allow the airport to support aircraft like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 which will open space for more routes. 

The airport uses DVOR and DME navigation systems which guide pilots with accurate signals during landing and take-off. The night-landing system was completed in 2021 and it helps aircraft operate safely during low-visibility conditions. 

The apron area continues to expand and the improvements include better lighting, updated markings and new service equipment. Hindustan Petroleum has provided an on-site fuel facility and this facility allows aircraft to refuel at Kolhapur Airport without restrictions. The availability of fuel supports higher passenger loads and steadier schedules. 

These upgrades show how Kolhapur Airport aims to build a stronger and safer flight network for the region.

Kolhapur Airport arrivals remain simple because the airport handles domestic flights only which means passengers do not pass through passport control. Most travellers collect their bags quickly because the airport manages around 90 flights per month and the volume stays steady without large surges. 

If you plan to pick up someone from Kolhapur Airport, then you should reach the terminal at least 20 - 30 minutes after the aircraft lands because this timing usually fits the baggage process. Kolhapur Airport departures require passengers to arrive 2 hours before their preferred flight and this timing helps you complete check-in and security without rush. 

Airlines close check-in 1 hour before domestic departures and this rule applies to all travellers. The new terminal layout supports smooth movement and clear signs reduce confusion for first-time visitors. These simple steps help you experience predictable arrivals and departures at Kolhapur Airport.

Kolhapur Airport offers a range of facilities that support easy travel for passengers of all ages. You can use free trolleys near the entrance and baggage services remain available throughout the day. 

The airport includes cyber cafes and snack counters that serve quick bites and these options keep travel engagable during short waits. You can browse through duty-free style shops that offer perfumes, accessories, cosmetics, toys, souvenirs, electronics and jewellery. 

Seating areas stay clean and comfortable and the terminal design encourages calm movement. Lounge access may be available depending on service updates because the airport continues to add features through ongoing development. 

Free Wi-Fi or paid internet services may be offered through the cyber cafes and these help passengers stay connected while they wait. The terminal stays straightforward and its layout ensures that you do not feel lost while moving between areas.

Passengers often choose taxis to travel between Kolhapur Airport and the city because taxis offer direct routes and predictable timings. App-based cab services do not operate in Kolhapur which means city taxis remain the main travel choice for airport transfers. 

You can reach Kolhapur Airport in few minutes and the timing depends on traffic during peak hours. Local buses may operate on certain routes, although their timings do not remain consistent throughout the day and passengers should verify schedules before travelling. 

Private cars provide another simple option and many travellers prefer them for longer distances such as routes to Sangli. The road layout offers a smooth drive and the approach roads make it easy to reach the terminal. 

These points make transport from Kolhapur Airport practical for visitors who want predictable and short travel times.

Kolhapur Airport offers domestic routes that support everyday travel for business and leisure. IndiGo and Star Air operate from Kolhapur Airport and their schedules cover key Indian cities. 

Passengers can book flights from Kolhapur to Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Tirupati, Nagpur, Ahmedabad and Mumbai and these routes ensure smooth connections across southern and western India. IndiGo, Air India Express, Air India and Spice Jet manages both daily and weekly flights, as Star Air handles additional services that balance the network. 

The growing runway length will help the airport support more destinations in the future because larger aircraft will be able to operate safely. Passengers can track their flights through the airline website or through the IndiGo flight-status page. These routes help Kolhapur Airport remain a dependable gateway for routine travel.

Travellers who plan short stays can find several hotels near Kolhapur Airport. Popular options include Zip By Spree Hotels Kolhapur, Regenta Place Raysons, Treebo Balaji Residency, Treebo Shree Sai Suites, The Fern Kolhapur, Sayaji Kolhapur, Itsy Hotels Ranjeet, Ramee Panchshil, Krishna Inn, The Green Hotel and Hotel Kohinoor Square.

These hotels sit at convenient distances from the city and the airport which helps visitors settle in quickly. You can visit local sights such as the Mahalaxmi Temple, New Palace, Town Hall Museum and Rankala Lake and each spot offers a clear view of Kolhapur’s cultural history. 

The distance between Kolhapur Airport and Sangli supports quick day trips and many travellers use this route for family visits or short breaks. These simple options help you enjoy a balanced stay near Kolhapur Airport.

As you now know everything about the airport we discussed at the beginning of this guide but there is one more important point that is still left to cover, which is how you will book your ticket for Kolhapur Airport.

As I have a helpful option at you can rely on is Flightsmojo because it keeps the booking process with clear and easy to follow-steps. You can check routes, compare fares and choose the timing that fits your plans without feeling rushed or confused.

Flightsmojo also offers an understanding customer support team, whenever you need help, as this can make your travel planning feel far more organised. It gives you a smooth space to complete your booking and it helps you focus on your journey rather than the process behind it.