Behala Airport

Behala Airport Kolkata: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Behala Airport, nestled in the southern neighborhood of Kolkata, stands as an important facet of the city’s aviation scene. Established in the mid-20th century, this institution has grown from a humble airstrip into a pivotal center for pilot training, general aviation, and helicopter services. Unlike Kolkata’s primary commercial hub, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Behala Airport offers a more personal aviation experience, blending historical significance with ongoing modernization efforts.

This in-depth guide provides essential information for prospective visitors, including Behala Airport’s visiting hours, ticketing procedures, accessibility, travel tips, and details on nearby attractions. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a traveler seeking offbeat experiences, or a local resident, this guide will help you plan a rewarding visit.

For further details, consult the Airports Authority of India, IndiaAirport, and NomadicWeekends for authoritative information and travel narratives.

Historical Background and Evolution
Visiting Behala Airport: What You Need to Know
Current Operational Status and Facilities
Transportation and Accessibility
Future Expansion Plans and Commercial Prospects
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visitor Tips and Practical Information
Cultural and Social Significance
Key Milestones and Historical Highlights
Summary Table: Key Facts
Visuals and Media Resources
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Background and Evolution

Early Origins and Establishment

Behala Airport, also known as the Behala Flying Training Institute (BFTI) or Behala Flying Club (BFC), was founded during India’s formative aviation years. It started as a grass airfield focused on flight training and light aircraft operations (IndiaAirport). Over the decades, it established a community of aviation enthusiasts and contributed to nurturing local talent.

Role in Kolkata’s Aviation Landscape

Behala Airport has long complemented Kolkata’s main airport by offering a quieter, more accessible alternative for flight training, private flying, and recreational aviation. The Flying Club has made aviation accessible to the public through pilot training, joyrides, and aerial tours, giving both locals and tourists unique views of the city (NomadicWeekends).

Infrastructure and Technical Evolution

Currently, Behala Airport features a single 1,066-meter (3,500-foot) asphalt runway, supporting small planes and helicopters (IndiaAirport). The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has steadily upgraded navigation aids, safety systems, and air traffic control, keeping the facility operational and secure.

Notable Services and Operations

Although Behala Airport does not handle scheduled commercial flights, it has played a key role in regional helicopter connectivity—linking Kolkata to remote destinations in West Bengal. Its legacy is strongest as a flight training center and provider of recreational aviation experiences (IndiaAirport).

Modernization and Future Prospects

Major modernization plans are in motion, with AAI and the Ministry of Civil Aviation aiming to extend the runway and introduce commercial passenger services, particularly under the government’s UDAN scheme (IndiaAirport). This would establish Behala as Kolkata’s secondary commercial airport, relieving pressure on the city’s main international airport.

Visiting Behala Airport: What You Need to Know

Visiting Hours

Flight Training & Joyrides:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 4 p.m. & 5 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m., & 5 p.m.
General Public Visits:
- Entry is primarily for those with prior permission, trainees, or event attendees.

Tip: Always confirm timings with the Behala Flying Club before planning your visit, as hours may change due to weather or operational requirements.

Ticket Information and Pricing

Joyrides: Typically around ₹1,700 per person for 10–15 minute city flights.
Aerial Tours: Special tours to nearby destinations (e.g., Digha) are available at higher rates.
Booking: Advance booking is highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Contact the Flying Club directly for arrangements.

Accessibility and Getting There

Location: Behala, southern Kolkata.
Nearest Metro Stations: Kalighat and Rabindra Sarovar.
By Taxi/Ride-Share: Easily accessible by cab, Ola, or Uber. From the airport or central Kolkata, fares range from ₹1,000–₹1,250.
By Public Transport: Several bus routes serve the area; expect crowded conditions during peak hours.
Parking: Limited on-site parking is available.
Wheelchair Access: Basic infrastructure; contact the Flying Club ahead for special assistance.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: October to March for clear skies and pleasant weather.
Attire: Comfortable clothing and sunglasses recommended.
Safety: Follow all instructions from staff and wear seat belts during flights.
Permissions: Advance permission is required for most visits.

Nearby Attractions

Make the most of your visit by exploring these Kolkata highlights:

Victoria Memorial: Iconic colonial monument and museum.
Howrah Bridge: Architectural marvel over the Hooghly River.
Indian Museum: Historic collection of art and artifacts.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Revered riverside temple.

Current Operational Status and Facilities

Behala Airport (ICAO: VEBA) is managed by the AAI, covering 210 acres. Its primary functions include aviation training, private flying, and helicopter charters. There are no scheduled commercial flights as of June 2025 (AAI).

Runway & Airside Infrastructure

Single asphalt runway, 1,066 meters (3,500 feet)
Supports training aircraft and helicopters
Taxiways and apron for light aircraft
No jet bridges or heavy ground equipment

Terminal & Landside Facilities

Administrative offices and briefing rooms
Basic restrooms and limited waiting areas
No commercial terminal, check-in, or baggage services
No on-site restaurants or retail outlets

Aviation Training and Flying Club Activities

Behala is a hub for flying clubs and aviation academies. Training includes:

Ground school and in-flight instruction
Simulator sessions
Aircraft rental for qualified pilots

Airshows and public aviation events may occur by prior arrangement.

Transportation and Accessibility

By Road: Taxis, ride-sharing, and private vehicles are the main options.
Public Transit: Local buses and auto-rickshaws serve the area; limited metro access.
Parking: On-site, but limited.
Nearby Amenities: ATMs, petrol stations, and hospitals are located within the Behala area.

Future Expansion Plans and Commercial Prospects

Runway Extension and Infrastructure Upgrades

Plans are underway to extend the runway to 4,500 feet, enabling operations for regional aircraft like the ATR 72 and Dornier series (Wikipedia). This aims to reduce congestion at Kolkata’s main airport (The Statesman).

Transition to Commercial Flights

Behala Airport will be integrated into the UDAN scheme for affordable regional air travel (Times of India). Upgrades will include a new terminal, passenger amenities, and improved ground transportation.

Integration Within West Bengal’s Aviation Network

The modernization is part of a state-wide initiative to improve connectivity and infrastructure across West Bengal airports, including Bagdogra, Andal, and Cooch Behar (Financial Express).

Timeline and Challenges

Implementation will depend on government approvals, land acquisition, and funding. Environmental and community impact assessments are ongoing (Wikipedia).

Behala Airport is cherished for its community atmosphere and role in making aviation accessible. It continues to inspire new generations of pilots and offers locals a unique perspective of their city (NomadicWeekends).

Key Milestones and Historical Highlights

Mid-20th Century: Establishment as a flying club and training ground
Late 20th Century: Introduction of regional helicopter services
Early 21st Century: Infrastructure upgrades by AAI
2020s: Plans for commercial expansion and runway extension

Summary Table: Key Facts

Feature	Details
Location	Behala, Kolkata, West Bengal
Area	~210 acres
Runway	1,066 meters (3,500 feet), small aircraft and helicopters
Ownership	Airports Authority of India
Use	Flying club, pilot training, general aviation
Commercial Ops	None currently; planned for future
Facilities	Basic (briefing rooms, admin, restrooms)
Accessibility	Road, limited parking, nearby public transport
Future Plans	Runway extension, new terminal, regional flights

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I buy tickets for commercial flights from Behala Airport?
A: No, only joyrides and training flights are available; no scheduled commercial services yet.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Typically 4–5 p.m. on select weekdays, more slots on weekends for flying experiences. General visits require prior permission.

Q: How do I arrange a visit or joyride?
A: Contact the Behala Flying Club in advance for permission and bookings.

Q: What amenities are available?
A: Basic restrooms and waiting areas; no restaurants or shops on-site.

Q: Are there nearby attractions?
A: Yes—Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and more.

Visuals and Media Resources

Aerial view of Behala Airport runway (alt: “Behala Airport runway in Kolkata”)
Joyride aircraft preparing for takeoff (alt: “Joyride plane at Behala Airport”)
Map highlighting Behala Airport and nearby metro stations

Conclusion and Final Tips

Behala Airport represents a unique intersection of Kolkata’s aviation tradition and its aspirations for modern connectivity. While public access is limited and commercial operations are pending, the airport offers a distinctive experience through joyrides, flight training, and its close-knit aviation community. Combine your visit with cultural explorations of Kolkata’s historical sites for a truly enriching experience.

Tips: