Complete Guide of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport Terminal

Ahmedabad International Airport, officially known as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, serves both Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar in Gujarat. It is located just 9 km from the Ahmedabad city center, making it easily accessible for travelers.

Named after Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister, the airport is an important hub for domestic and international flights. During the fiscal year 2018-2019, it handled 11.7 million passengers, ranking as the seventh busiest airport in India.

In 2015, the Indian government initiated the privatization of the airport to improve its infrastructure and services. Additionally, plans are underway for the development of Dholera International Airport, which is expected to take over as the primary airport for the region as part of the city’s expansion.

If you’re flying to Ahmedabad, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with the airport’s terminals and facilities to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Terminals

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has three terminals in total. Two of these are dedicated to passenger traffic, while the third is used exclusively for cargo operations. This separation ensures efficient handling of both travelers and freight services.

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport covers an area of 480,000 square feet and features 32 check-in counters. It is dedicated to domestic flights, connecting travelers to various destinations across India.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport was inaugurated in 2010 and has received recognition for its architecture, winning the “Best Steel Structure” award at the National Structural Steel Design and Construction Awards in 2009.

This terminal spans 41,000 square meters and is equipped with 32 check-in counters and four aerobridges, efficiently serving over 1,600 passengers at a time.

Additionally, the terminal includes an apron area of 51,975 square meters, providing parking space for four ATR-72 aircraft and nine A-321 aircraft. This layout ensures smooth operations for both domestic and international flights.

Cargo Terminals

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport also features a dedicated cargo terminal, capable of handling 51,637 tons of cargo annually. Interestingly, 60% of this cargo originates from domestic sources, reflecting its importance for regional trade.

To support the transportation of perishable goods, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) leased 3,685 square meters of space to Gujarat Agro Industries Corporation for seven years. This initiative aimed to establish a specialized perishable cargo center.

In 2014, the airport introduced Terminal 3 as a dedicated cargo terminal, further enhancing its capacity to manage growing freight demands. This terminal plays a vital role in facilitating efficient cargo movement for both domestic and international operations.

Hotel and Lounges

After a long journey, finding comfortable accommodations and lounges is essential to recharge. Here are some hotels and lounges near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport:

1. Pristine Residency Hotel
   Located just a mile from the airport, this hotel offers a free pick-up and drop-off service upon request, making it a convenient option for travelers.
2. Hotel R.J. Residency
   This is the closest hotel to Ahmedabad International Airport, situated within walking distance of the airport premises for quick and easy access.
3. The Ummed Ahmedabad
   Situated near the International Airport Circle, The Ummed Ahmedabad is 1.2 miles away from the airport and offers a blend of comfort and convenience.
4. Hotel Airport Residency
   Also within walking distance of the airport, this hotel provides an airport shuttle service for added convenience, ensuring a hassle-free stay.
5. Port Lounge
   The Port Lounge is located in the International Departure terminal and is the only lounge at the airport. Travelers can enjoy a luxurious and relaxing experience while waiting for their flights.

Facilities at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport

Passengers arriving at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport can enjoy several facilities designed for a comfortable travel experience. Key amenities include:

1. Wi-Fi Internet
   • Free Wi-Fi is available for up to 30 minutes.
   • For extended use, travelers can purchase a seven-day pass for INR 100, offering unlimited Wi-Fi access.
2. ATMs and Cash Machines
   • ATMs and cash machines are conveniently located along the approach roads to the Terminal 1 departure area, providing easy access to cash after arrival.
3. Shopping
   • Duty-free shops are available near the arrivals and departures at Terminal 2.
   • These outlets offer a variety of products to meet your travel needs or for last-minute purchases.
4. Luggage Trolleys
   • Free luggage trolleys are available at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to assist passengers with their baggage.
5. Food Courts and Drink Centers
   • A range of food counters can be found across the airport, including a restaurant in Terminal 1 and snack bars in both terminals.
   • Tea and coffee vending machines are also available for a quick refreshment.
6. Massage Chairs and Medical Services
   • Pay-per-use massage chairs are accessible in both terminals, perfect for relaxing during layovers.
   • Free urgent and emergency medical services are provided at Terminals 1 and 2 to ensure passenger safety and well-being.

These facilities aim to make your travel experience at Ahmedabad International Airport as convenient and enjoyable as possible.

Transportation Services at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport

After arriving at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, you can choose from several convenient transportation options:

1. Car Rentals
   • Cabs and rental cars are readily available at the Arrival Halls of both the International and Domestic Terminals, ensuring seamless travel to and from your destination.
2. Hotel Shuttles
   • Many hotels offer free shuttle services to and from the airport. Before booking your stay, check if your hotel provides this facility for added convenience. Some popular options include Hotel Airport Residency, Tune Hotel, Naeeka Hotel, and Hotel German Palace.
3. Buses
   • City buses are an economical option for getting around Ahmedabad. However, note that the routes are limited, so they may not cover all destinations within the city.
4. Taxis
   • Pre-paid taxis are available near the Terminal 2 Arrival Hall, offering a hassle-free and reliable option for local transportation.

Additional Services

The airport also offers amenities like currency exchange centers and mobile charging stations to make your journey more convenient.

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