Vizag’s New Airport: Bhogapuram International Airport Updates
Visakhapatnam’s ambitious aviation project, officially named the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport (ASRIA), commonly referred to as Bhogapuram International Airport, is rapidly approaching completion. Developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Ltd (GVIAL) under a Public-Private Partnership model, the airport is expected to be operational by May 2026, with a trial run scheduled for January 2026.
The airport carries the IATA code VOX and ICAO code VOVI, and is strategically located on the border of Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram districts. With a 3,800-meter runway, it is designed to accommodate wide-body aircraft and handle significant international traffic, positioning Vizag as a major hub for tourism, trade, and cargo logistics in Andhra Pradesh.
Beyond aviation infrastructure, the project is tied to broader regional ambitions. GMR, in collaboration with the Mansas Trust, is developing an aviation education city to nurture talent and support long-term economic growth. This dual focus on connectivity and education underscores the airport’s role as a catalyst for transformation in the region.
However, concerns remain. The Andhra Pradesh Air Travelers Association (APATA) has highlighted potential challenges in passenger connectivity to the new site, urging the state government and GMR to prioritize road and transport links. Without robust infrastructure, the benefits of the airport could be undermined by difficulties in reaching it.
Once operational, Bhogapuram International Airport is expected to host major domestic carriers such as IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, and Vistara, along with international airlines connecting Vizag directly to Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Officials estimate the airport will be capable of handling up to 200 aircraft movements per day, with parking capacity for 18 aircraft overnight.
Key Facts
- Official Name: Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport (Bhogapuram International Airport)
- IATA Code: VOX
- ICAO Code: VOVI
- Runway: 3,800 meters, asphalt
- Expected Operations: May 2026 (trial run was done in January 2026)
- Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, Vistara, plus international carriers
- Capacity: ~200 aircraft movements daily, 18 overnight parking slots
With its advanced facilities, international scope, and educational initiatives, Bhogapuram International Airport is set to redefine Vizag’s aviation landscape. As the countdown to its inauguration begins, the focus now shifts to whether authorities can match the speed of construction with equally swift improvements in accessibility, ensuring that this ambitious project truly becomes a gateway to growth for Andhra Pradesh.
