Port Blair, officially renamed Sri Vijaya Puram, is the captivating capital of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, nestled in the Bay of Bengal. Known as the gateway to this pristine archipelago, Port Blair has a rich legacy that combines colonial history, freedom struggle and natural beauty.
The city is home to iconic sites such as the Cellular Jail, the infamous British-era prison that held countless freedom fighters and scenic retreats like Ross Island, Viper Island, Corbyn’s Cove and Wandoor Beach, which showcase the perfect blend of heritage and tropical charm.
The lifeline of the islands, Veer Savarkar International Airport is popularly known as Port Blair Airport, serves as the main entry point for domestic and international travellers. Conveniently located at Lamba Line, just 2 km from the city centre (PIN: 744103), the airport ensures hassle-free access to the heart of Port Blair. Sharing its airside with INS Utkrosh of the Indian Navy, the airport also plays a significant role in national security while welcoming millions of tourists every year to the enchanting Andamans.
Port Blair Airport currently has a single terminal, spanning 6,100 sq. meters, designed to handle around 400 passengers per hour. Despite being compact, it is well-equipped with modern airport facilities, including:
Serving as the aerial gateway to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, IATA IXZ offers extensive connectivity. Domestic flights link Port Blair with Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and other Indian cities with IndiGo flights operating multiple weekly non-stops. For global explorers, the airport also connects to Singapore flights and Colombo flights while offering opportunities to explore beyond India’s shores. With growing traffic and expanding routes, Port Blair Airport continues to empower its role as a vital aviation hub
Budget-conscious travellers often find excellent flight deals departing from Port Blair Airport. For example: the lowest recent fares include a return ticket to Chennai flights fo the cost INR 9,792 and one-way tickets from INR 2,976.
Beyond Chennai travellers can also find competitive fares on flights to Singapore and Colombo and more.To maximise savings on cheap flights from Port Blair experts recommend smart strategies such as booking at least 30 days in advance setting up price alerts opting for flexible travel dates or choosing direct flights whenever possible. In some cases, booking two one-way tickets instead of a return fare can also unlock better deals.
For a stress-free journey travellers should plan to arrive at Veer Savarkar International Airport at least two hours before departure allowing ample time for check-in and security.
Ground transport options from Port Blair Airport are convenient with pre-paid cabs, taxis and local buses connecting the airport to different parts of the city. For added value, many travellers choose to bundle Port Blair flights with Port Blair hotels and car rentals, ensuring a seamless and cost-effective trip to the islands.
Visitors have no shortage of accommodation choices with Port Blair hotels ranging from budget-friendly stays to high-end luxury resorts. Popular picks include Zone Connect by The Park, Sinclairs Bayview, Silver Sand Neil, De Foret, Sea Shell Coral Cove, Coral Reef Resort & Spa, Seashell Havelock and the premium Tilar Siro Andamans – CGH Earth. Whether travellers seek affordability or indulgence, hotels near the airport and city centre make Port Blair a comfortable base for exploring the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) isn’t a transit hub, it’s a destination in its own right. Steeped in history, it carries the legacy of the penal colony at Cellular Jail, the wartime occupation during World War II and its role as the this headquarters of the Azad Hind Government under Subhas Chandra Bose.
Today, the city blends heritage with progress, having survived the 2004 tsunami and later being chosen under the Smart City Mission in 2017. Coupled with lush beaches, naval significance through the Indian Navy and ever-growing tourism, Port Blair has cemented its place as one of India’s most unique coastal capitals.
From its historic past to its modern aviation gateway, Port Blair truly embodies the spirit of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. With Veer Savarkar International Airport (IATA IXZ) offering reliable connectivity, serving an ample number of airport facilities and affordable flight deals, travellers can look forward to an experience that combines convenience, culture and coastal beauty. Whether you’re chasing history, hunting for cheap flights from Port Blair or seeking tropical adventures, Port Blair remains the perfect starting point for unforgettable journeys.
1. What is the official name of Port Blair Airport?
The official name is Veer Savarkar International Airport (IATA: IXZ), though it is widely known as Port Blair Airport.
2. How far is Port Blair Airport from the city center?
Port Blair Airport is located just 2 km from the city centre at Lamba Line, making transfers quick and convenient.
3. Why was Port Blair renamed Sri Vijaya Puram?
The city was officially renamed Sri Vijaya Puram to honour its rich cultural and historical heritage, reflecting both local traditions and national pride.
4. What facilities are available at Port Blair Airport?
Port Blair Airport facilities include 9 check-in counters, immigration and customs desks, ATMs, First Aid services, wheelchair assistance, cafes, duty-free shops, and car rental options.
5. Does Port Blair Airport handle international flights?
Yes. Along with domestic services, Veer Savarkar International Airport offers connectivity to Singapore flights and Colombo flights, making it an important international hub in the Bay of Bengal.
6. Which airlines operate flights to Port Blair?
Major carriers such as IndiGo and other domestic airlines operate frequent flights to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and additional Indian cities.
7. What is the passenger capacity of Port Blair Airport?
The compact Port Blair Airport terminal spans 6,100 sq. m and is designed to handle about 400 passengers per hour.
8. What ground transport options are available at Port Blair Airport?
Travellers can choose between prepaid cabs, regular taxis, and local buses to conveniently reach different parts of Port Blair city.
9. How can I find a cheap flight ticket from Port Blair?
To secure cheap flights from Port Blair, book at least 30 days in advance, set fare alerts, travel on flexible dates, or consider one-way tickets instead of round-trip tickets.
10. What are the popular destinations connected to Port Blair Airport?
Popular routes include Port Blair to Chennai flights, Kolkata, and Bengaluru domestically, along with international connections to Singapore and Colombo.
11. What travel tips should I follow when flying from Port Blair?
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure, allow time for check-in and security, and consider bundling Port Blair flights with hotels or rentals for better deals.
12. 12. What are the stay options near Port Blair Airport?
Passengers can select from a huge range of Port Blair hotels, from budget stays like Zone Connect to luxury resorts such as Tilar Siro Andamans – CGH Earth.
13. What makes Port Blair a unique travel destination?
Beyond being a transit hub, Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) is known for its colonial history, Cellular Jail, tropical beaches, naval significance, and its resilience after the 2004 tsunami.
14. Is Port Blair Airport shared with the Indian Navy?
Yes, Port Blair Airport shares its airside with INS Utkrosh, making it both a civilian airport and a base of strategic importance for the Indian Navy.
15. Why should travellers choose Port Blair as a starting point?
With its mix of history, natural beauty, and efficient connectivity via Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair is the perfect starting point for exploring the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.