Coimbatore Airport

Coimbatore International Airport Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Coimbatore International Airport, located in Peelamedu about 10–13 kilometers from the heart of Coimbatore city, is a pivotal aviation hub for western Tamil Nadu and the Kongu region. Since its establishment as a civil aerodrome in 1940, the airport has played a key role in the region’s economic and cultural development, earning international status in 2012. Today, it connects Coimbatore to major Indian metros and several international destinations, supporting the city’s industrial profile and vibrant tourism sector (magicbricks.com; indiaairport.com; britishaviationgroup.co.uk).

The airport operates 24/7 and offers a modern terminal, aerobridges, free Wi-Fi, accessible amenities, and robust domestic and international connectivity. Currently, it is undergoing a major expansion, which includes a longer runway, a new terminal, and upgraded cargo facilities. Travelers should be mindful of temporary changes to access and services during this period and are encouraged to check flight schedules and plan ahead (The Hindu; indianinfrastructure.com).

This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, airport facilities, airlines, transport, local attractions, and ongoing expansion—helping you make the most of your journey.

Historical Overview
Airport Infrastructure and Passenger Facilities
Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information
Airlines and Destinations
Transportation and Ground Connectivity
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Expansion and Modernization Update
Safety, Security, and Passenger Comfort
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Call to Action

1. Historical Overview

Early Beginnings (1940–1987)

Established as a civil aerodrome in 1940, Coimbatore Airport launched scheduled flights in 1948, connecting the city to Madras, Bangalore, Cochin, and Thiruvananthapuram. The formation of the Coimbatore Flying Club in the 1960s fostered local aviation skills. By 1987, the runway was expanded to accommodate larger aircraft, aligning with the city’s industrial growth (magicbricks.com; articlesfactory.com).

Advancements and International Status (1990–2012)

The addition of night landing facilities in 1990 enabled round-the-clock operations. In 2012, Coimbatore was upgraded to international airport status, opening doors to direct overseas flights and further boosting its role as a gateway for business and tourism (magicbricks.com).

2. Airport Infrastructure and Passenger Facilities

Terminal and Runway

Coimbatore International Airport features a modern, integrated terminal serving both domestic and international flights. It is equipped to handle a growing number of passengers with facilities such as aerobridges, lifts, escalators, and a runway over 2,990 meters (9,810 feet) long, soon to be extended to 3,810 meters (12,500 feet) as part of the ongoing expansion (indiaairport.com).

Passenger Services

The terminal offers:

Free Wi-Fi (first 15 minutes free; paid plans available)
Currency exchange, ATMs, and duty-free shops
Lounges, baby care rooms, and first aid facilities
Tourist information desk and lost-and-found counter
Baggage services and luggage wrapping (sleepinginairports.net)

Accessibility

The airport is fully accessible, providing:

Wheelchair and special assistance on request
Ramps, elevators, tactile flooring, and Braille signage
Reserved parking and easy access boarding areas

3. Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information

Coimbatore International Airport operates 24/7 due to night landing capabilities. Airline check-in counters, ticketing, and lounges generally open 2–3 hours before scheduled departures, closing after the last flight.

Ticket Booking:

Book online via airline websites or travel portals
On-site ticket counters are available but advance online booking is recommended during peak seasons

For international flights, arrive at least 3 hours before departure; for domestic, 2 hours is advised.

4. Airlines and Destinations

Domestic Connectivity

Major domestic carriers include IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Alliance Air. Key routes connect Coimbatore to Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Pune, Kolkata, and Kochi.

International Connectivity

Direct international flights include:

Sharjah (Air Arabia)
Singapore (Scoot, Singapore Airlines)
Colombo (SriLankan Airlines)

With ongoing expansion, new international routes are anticipated (magicbricks.com).

Cargo Operations

The airport supports significant cargo movement, benefiting Coimbatore’s textile and industrial sectors. Amazon Air, among others, operates direct cargo flights.

5. Transportation and Ground Connectivity

Taxis and Ride Services: Available 24/7 from the terminal
City Buses: Regular service to major areas, including Gandhipuram and Singanallur
Rail: Coimbatore Junction (11 km), Peelamedu, and Singanallur stations nearby
Parking: Nearly 300 spaces for short- and long-term stays
Metro: A proposed metro station will further enhance connectivity

6. Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

The airport’s location offers easy access to:

Marudamalai Temple
Gass Forest Museum
VOC Park and Zoo
Ooty, Coonoor, and Nilgiris hill stations

Travel Tips:

Book hotels in advance, especially in peak seasons (many offer shuttle services)
Check local travel advisories during airport expansion
Arrive early to accommodate possible construction-related delays

7. Expansion and Modernization Update

A USD 250 million (over ₹2,089 crore) expansion is underway, including:

Runway Extension: To 12,500 feet for wide-body aircraft (Indian Infrastructure)
New Terminal: Doubling passenger capacity, expanding check-in and amenities
Airside Improvements: New taxiways, parking bays, and apron upgrades
Land Acquisition: Over 472 acres acquired (The Hindu; covaichronicle.com)

Expected Benefits:

Increased capacity and safety
New international destinations
Boost to local economy and real estate (G Square Housing)

Current Status:
Construction is phased, with some delays due to land transfer and coordination with the Defence Ministry (sagarsandesh.in).

8. Safety, Security, and Passenger Comfort

Security: Comprehensive surveillance and baggage checks
Medical: On-site medical center and first aid
Smoking: Permitted only in designated areas
Special Assistance: For children, elderly, and differently-abled travelers

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the airport’s visiting hours?
A: The airport operates 24/7; check-in counters and services follow flight schedules.

Q: How do I book tickets?
A: Online via airline sites or at airport counters.

Q: Is the airport accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, tactile flooring, and wheelchair assistance.

Q: What international destinations are served?
A: Sharjah, Singapore, and Colombo.

Q: How do I reach the airport from the city center?
A: By taxi, city bus, or soon via the metro (under development).

Q: Will expansion cause flight delays?
A: Minor delays are possible during construction, but the airport authority strives to minimize disruption.

10. Conclusion and Call to Action

Coimbatore International Airport is a modern, accessible, and expanding hub that reflects the growth of Coimbatore as a business and tourist destination. While expansion may temporarily affect services, the long-term benefits will significantly enhance connectivity and traveler comfort. For the latest updates on flight timings, facilities, and airport development, check the official airport website and download the Audiala app for real-time notifications and personalized travel assistance.

Plan ahead, stay updated, and enjoy your journey through Coimbatore—South India’s thriving aviation gateway.