Cochin International Airport, often known as Kochi Airport, is Kerala’s busiest and largest airport. The airport is located in Nedumbassery, approximately 40 kilometers from Kochi on the Indian peninsula’s southwest coast. Kochi Airport began operations in 1999, serving both domestic and international flights. The airport is well-known for being entirely powered by solar panels.
The airport has won several accolades, including:
State Pollution Control Board Excellence Award for 2018
Business Today – BEST SME Award, 2016
UN’s ‘Champion of Earth’ Award—2018
The airport provides all amenities and a variety of recreational activities, making it one of the best airports. This blog covers all aspects of Cochin International Airport.
Kochi Airport Quick Facts
Listed below are some quick facts about Kochi Airport.
|
Particulars |
Details |
|
Kochi Airport Name |
Cochin International Airport |
|
Kochi Airport Code |
COK |
|
Airport Type |
Public-Private Partnership |
| Location |
Nedumbassery, Kochi, Kerala, India |
|
Serves |
Kochi |
|
Operated By |
Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) & Govt. of Kerala |
| Opening Date |
10 June 1999 |
|
Kochi Airport Area |
41,156 Sq. Mtr. |
|
Number of Terminals |
3 Terminals (Domestic, International, & Cargo) |
|
Runway Length |
3,445 Mtr |
|
Kochi Airport Pin Code |
683111 |
| Website |
https://www.cial.aero/ |
Who owns Kochi Airport?
Kochi Airport is the first to be established using the Public-Private Partnership model. Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) owns 68.58% of the shares, while the Government of Kerala owns 32.42%. During that time, the Chief Minister of Kerala presided over the company.
Terminals at Cochin International Airport.
Kochi Airport contains the country’s first historic terminals, which represent Kerala’s traditions. There are three passenger terminals: one international, one domestic, and a Business Jet terminal that serves both.
Domestic Terminal 1: Kochi Airport’s terminal spans 6 lakh square feet and can accommodate 4000 passengers (2000 arriving and 2000 leaving). This terminal effortlessly handles all domestic planes. The domestic terminal consists of one arrival hall and one departure hall. The Terminal includes a shopping arcade that meets all of your needs.
Business Jet Terminal 2 at Kochi Airport handles only international and domestic business jets. The Business Jet Terminal features exclusive private automobile parking, a drive-in porch, a grand lobby, lounges, a business center, video conference rooms, a duty-free shop, and a foreign exchange desk.
International Terminal 3: International flights are managed from Kochi Airport’s Terminal 3. The Terminal’s design aims to provide guests with a typical Kerala experience. At Terminal 3, you can’t miss 15 life-size fiber elephants inspired by the Thrissur Pooram Festival.
Cargo Terminal: A specialized cargo terminal has been built at Kochi Airport, spanning 120,000 square feet on 50 acres of land. The cargo center includes the Center for Dry Cargo (CDC), the Center for Perishable Cargo (CPC), the Transshipment Cargo Complex, and the Domestic Cargo Complex.
Fast Track Immigration Launched
The airport has implemented a fast-track immigration procedure. This program uses biometric technologies and takes approximately 20 seconds to complete.
It is known as the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) scheme. With this, overseas tourists can finish their immigration process in seconds after registering once at the Ministry of Home Affairs’ portal. This portal allows Indian citizens and OCIs (Overseas Citizens of India) to submit applications.
There are eight biometric e-gates: four in the arrival area and four in the departure area. These gates provide expedited immigration services.
Facilities available at Kochi airport.
Cochin International Airport strives to provide a comfortable experience for passengers. The airport authority provides the following services:
Self-baggage drop: To improve travelers’ travel experiences, Terminal 1 now offers a self-baggage drop option. Passengers can drop off their bags without the assistance of airline staff members. However, this service is offered to passengers of Air India, Air Asia, and Go Air. Self-service luggage is available at check-in counters 27 through 30.
Lounges: Three VIP lounges are located in the Terminal 3 departure section, with one in the Terminal 3 arrival area. In addition, there are two VIP lounges in Terminal 1’s Arrival and Security hold rooms.
Parking facility: At Kochi Airport, there is parking for all types of cars. However, you must pay to use this amenity.
Baggage wrapping: To ensure the safety of any sensitive things or the overall security of your luggage, you can choose for baggage wrapping. The price is Rs 350 per baggage.
Meet & Greet facility: For a stress-free travel experience, there is a meet and greet facility where you may receive Baggage Assistance Service, Feel Safe Service, and simply Check-In Check-Out Service.
Accommodation: The Domestic Terminal building has five guest rooms. There are two types of rooms available: suite rooms and deluxe rooms, which cost up to Rs 5000.
Lost & Found: If you have lost baggage, please contact the lost and found desk.
Cloak Room: The Cloak Room facility is offered at Cochin International Airport’s Terminal 3; however, it is a paid service.
Smart gates: In a recent decision to make foreign travel easier, Kochi Airport will install specially built smart gates at immigration desks that allow for self-authentication. The measure is projected to cut the immigration verification procedure to 20 seconds, saving travelers a significant amount of time and effort.
Other amenities at Kochi Airport include diaper changing and feeding rooms, prayer rooms, ATM machines, shopping outlets, charging stations, wheelchair facilities, convenience stores, and restaurants.
Theme for Kochi Airport
Kochi International Airport (CIAL) is well-known for its Kerala traditional motif, which combines the region’s heritage with modern facilities. The airport terminals are not the typical glass and steel constructions. The terminals at CIAL are constructed in earthy colors to showcase the region’s cultural spirit.
International Terminal (T3): It is inspired by Thrissur Pooram, Kerala’s greatest temple festival. The departure hall features 15 life-size fiber elephants with gold-plated traditional ornamentation (Nettipattam).
Domestic Terminal (T1): The redesigned T1 terminal is based on the Ettukettu concept, which represents an eight-cornered palace. The terminal has wood carvings, clay roofs, and murals depicting stories such as King Mahabali’s story.
Construction Details for Cochin International Airport
The Cochin International Airport Society oversaw the airport’s construction, which began in 1993. The State Government supported the project, which was launched by India’s President in May 1999.
The construction phases for the Cochin airport are as follows:
Phase One:
inaugurated Cochin Airport with 18,580 m2 of floor space.
Planned four stages of expansion over 20 years.
The original terminal needed reconstruction due to increased international passenger traffic.
Phase Two:
built distinct terminals for domestic and foreign operations.
Increased floor area for foreign operations.
Expanded airline center complex and cargo terminal.
Phase Three:
Aims to accommodate 5 million passenger movements annually.
Participated in the commissioning of a central block and the expansion of the airside area.
Integrated international arrivals and departures, blocks, and increased parking lots.
Phase Four:
The original intentions for upgrading the domestic terminal were revised.
The updated proposal called for extensive renovations to the international terminal as well as the construction of a new international terminal.
The current domestic terminal will be renovated into a “Executive Pavilion” to accommodate VIP and private chartered planes.
How to get to Cochin International Airport?
Cochin is a major tourist destination, hence the Kochi Airport is a bustling center. Many modes of transportation are available from Kochi Airport to the city.
cab: You can easily take a cab to the airport from the city center. It takes 60 minutes to get from the city to the airport by cab. Additionally, there are numerous airport taxis and private shuttles. Taxis are available outside the airport 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will take you to your destination.
Bus: There are no direct buses from Kochi City to the airport. You can use the Kochi metro to go halfway there and then take the bus. The metro runs to Aluva metro station, from which you can easily catch a bus. The bus will take around 25 minutes to reach Kochi Airport. Traveling by bus is an inexpensive choice.
Train: The nearest train station to Kochi is Angamali train Station. The railway station is approximately 5.4 kilometers distant from Cochin International Airport. The journey from Kochi Airport to Angamali railway station takes about 10-15 minutes.
Metro stations closest to Kochi International Airport include Pulinchodu, Aluva, Muttom, and Companypady. Buses and taxis are easily accessible from metro stations.
Kochi Airport to Have A New Railway Station Nearby.
A new railway station, which was planned about a decade and a half ago, will be completed in one year. It will cost Rs 19 crores. It was planned in 2010, and the concept was never abandoned. This problem has been raised in Parliament.
The modified blueprint offers a new location adjacent to CIAL’s solar farm. Railways already possess land on both sides of the track that passes through this location.
According to the amended concept, the platform will begin immediately behind the Railway Over Bridge on the Athani Junction-Airport Road. There will be two platforms built, each with the capacity to carry trains with approximately 24 coaches.
This proposed station will connect travelers to the airport via a 1.5-kilometer road that passes under the Railway Over Bridge.
History of Kochi Airport
Cochin International Airport opened in 1936 as an airfield on Willington Island in the Kingdom of Cochin. The airfield was built to transport authorities involved in the development of the Cochin Port. During World War II, the Indian Navy transformed the airstrip into a military airport. The airport’s expansion began in the 1980s, coinciding with the Gulf Economic boom.
Sabarimala Pilgrims Transit Point at Kochi Airport.
On November 14, 2024, one of Kerala’s ministers inaugurated the transit facility for Sabrimala pilgrims at Kochi Airport. A transit point has been established in a 5,000-square-foot space known as ‘Edathavalom’. The state government built the transit point with the goal of delivering a hassle-free, pleasant, and comfortable pilgrimage experience for devotees who desire to travel by plane.
Some quick facts regarding the transit point:
Last year, approximately 6000 enthusiasts remained at the transit point.
Flight information display system is installed.
Food counter
Prepaid taxis
The Travancore Devaswom Board operates a help desk.
The 0484 Aero Lounge at the airport also offers budget accommodations.
To schedule any of these amenities, please call 0484-3053484 or email 0484reservation@ciasl.in.
Kochi International Airport Expansion
Cochin International Airport (CIAL) is undergoing a multi-phase expansion and development plan. Its strategy is to expand its infrastructure, capacity, and technological capabilities. Plans are being developed to accommodate increased passenger and cargo traffic, as well as to enhance the airport’s function as a hub.
Here’s an overview of the major expansion plans:
1. International Terminal (T3) Expansion.
It is a Rs 700-crore showpiece project. The terminal building will be expanded by 500,000 to 600,000 square feet, and a new 1.5 million square foot apron is being built on the north side of the original pier. The project will increase the number of parking spaces from 32 to 44, including eight additional aerobridges. The expansion will be completed by the end of this year.
2. Domestic Terminal (T1) Expansion
CIAL plans to modernize its domestic terminal as part of the expansion project. The current T1, which has a built-up size of 600,000 square feet, will be expanded by an additional 180,000 square feet. It will operate more domestic flights and passengers.
3. New Export Cargo Terminal.
The Cochin International Airport has reached a significant milestone with the opening of its brand-new Export Cargo Terminal. This tremendous expansion is a clear economic boon for Kerala. The primary goal of this initiative was to make it possible to ship goods abroad considerably faster. Among the most intriguing parts of this development project is the so-called cold chain system. It’s similar to a gigantic smart fridge that keeps fresh vegetables, fish, and medications at the proper temperature to avoid spoilage while in transit to Europe or the Middle East.
The airport can now accommodate far more weight than in the past. They installed scanning equipment and loading areas to prevent trucks from waiting in long queues. This hub is capable of handling more than 50,000 tonnes of cargo per year.
4. Technology Upgrades (CIAL 2.0)
CIAL has launched a Rs 200 crore digitalisation project called ‘CIAL 2.0’, which aims to completely digitize airport operations and improve the customer experience. More than 4,000 AI-powered surveillance cameras have been deployed to provide fast scanning and threat detection. For speedy cabin baggage screening, contactless scanning was used with full-body scanners and the Automated Tray Retrieval System (ATRS).
Cochin International Airport Upcoming Development Projects
CIAL, or Cochin International Airport Limited, has unveiled Kochi airport development projects costing Rs. 1,000 crore. The initiatives are planned to be finished within three years. Kochi airport improvement projects include enhancements to airport infrastructure and operations aimed at improving passengers’ overall travel experiences.
According to the CIAL report, 163 projects will be carried out as part of the Kochi Airport Development Plan. The paper covers the project’s technological advancements as well as its sustainability goals.
Cochin Airport Development Plan contains initiatives in both the aeronautical and non-aeronautical spheres. The authority intends to invest an extra Rs. 250 crore in IT infrastructure development, including the launch of Immigration e-gates, Digi Yatra, Self-baggage scanning systems, and PIDS (Perimeter Intrusion Detection System).
Real Estate Overview of Locations Near Cochin Airport
Let us have a look at some places around Kochi Airport that offer a profitable investment opportunity.
Aluva is a fantastic location around 8 kilometers from Kochi International Airport. Kalady Junction, schools, metro stations, and other social amenities surround the area. Aluva features a large number of inexpensive residential units in Kochi. A 3 BHK house might cost between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 40 lakh. While a rental house will cost between Rs 5,000 and Rs 15,000.
Nedumbassery is a suburban region in Kochi that is around 25 kilometers from the city center and close to the airport. The neighborhood is surrounded by all of the fundamental services, such as educational institutions, restaurants, and public transportation. A 3 BHK home for sale in Nedumbassery can cost up to Rs 60 lakh.
Kakkanad is an industrial and residential neighbourhood in eastern Kochi. The area is well-developed in terms of both social and physical infrastructure. Bavasons Constructions, Asten Realtors, KEM Builders & Developers, DLF Ltd, RMZ Homes, and Greentech Builders are some of the well-known developers in the area. A 3 BHK home can cost up to Rs 80 lakh, with monthly rentals of roughly Rs 15,000.
Kaloor is a thriving neighborhood near Kochi International Airport that boasts the state’s largest stadium. It is 25 kilometers from Cochin International Airport. Kaloor has some wonderful cafes and restaurants, making it a popular destination for young people. Famous developers such as Si Builders, Skyline Imperial Gardens, and Ceeyems City Nest have created numerous prospective residential properties in Kaloor. A property in Kaloor will cost between Rs 60 lakh and Rs 1.40 crore. A 3BHK home is often rented for roughly Rs 20,000.
Hotels near Kochi Airport
Listed below are a few significant hotels near Cochin International Airport.
|
Names |
Addresses | Contact Numbers |
Google Rating |
|
Aldora Airport Residency |
International Airport, opp. Jacobite Church, near Cochin, Nedumbassery, Kerala 683572 | 070127 33521 | 4.5 |
|
Treebo Trend Airport Avenue Plaza |
PRF Church, 596J, Junction, Akaparambu, Nedumbassery, Kerala 683111 | 093228 00100 |
4.4 |
|
Dreams Paradise Airport Residency |
596V+933, Kariyad – Airport – Mattoor Rd, Nedumbassery, Kerala 683111 | 078678 84000 |
4.4 |
|
Courtyard by Marriott Kochi Airport |
Vip Road Opposite Kochi International Airport, Nedumbassery, Kochi, Kerala 683572 | 0484 669 3333 |
4.4 |
|
Hotel Airlink Castle |
NH-47, Near Cochin International Airport Athani Nedumbassery, Kochi, Kerala 683585 | 0484 247 6666 |
4.1 |
|
Florida Airport Hotel |
Opp. Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery, Kerala 683572 | 073565 38880 |
4.1 |
|
Quality Airport Hotels |
Near Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery Nayathode P.O, Angamaly, Kerala 683572 | 0484 261 0366 |
4.0 |
| Anna Residency | Airport – Kariyad Road, opp. Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery, Kerala 683572 | 099465 31215 |
3.8 |
Contact Information for Cochin International Airport
If you have any questions or feedback, please visit the address or call the number provided.
Office address: Kochi Airport Post Office, Ernakulam – 683111, Kerala, India.
Contact information: 7994604033 / 7994935556 / 7994655578.
Email: pro@cial.aero.
Wrapping Up Kochi or Cochin Airport
Cochin International Airport has been providing great travel service to travelers for over 22 years. The airport is around 40 kilometers from the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” Kochi. Real estate opportunities abound near Kochi Airport, including Aluva, Nedumbassery, Angamaly, and others, where you can purchase or rent a property.
