BIAL or Bangalore Airport or Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR) is one of the busiest airport in the country. The traffic does not really match the Mumbai and Delhi airports, Bengaluru (the new name of Bangalore) but still its a big deal for the airport to have runways closed for over 2.5 months. So it may get tougher for passengers to get in and out of the city. Read on to be informed and avoid issues.
This week marks the start of “Aero India 2017” show and also is partially the reason behind the closure of Bangalore Airport runways at mentioned times. This partial closure will be followed by a more planned closure of the runways across the next 2 months for runway maintenance and airport upgrades.
What are the dates and timings of runway closure?
Closure Schedule
February 8-11 — 1.30 to 4.30 p.m.
February 12-18 — 10 a.m. to 1.30 p.m and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
February 19-April 30 — 10.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why is the BIAL Runway closed?
Aero India 2017 is a grand biennale event organized by the Indian Air Force at the Yelahanka Air Station in Bangalore. The event attracts people in massive numbers because of its famed air acrobatics show and several aircrafts on display. The first few days of runway closure is to accommodate and avoid any hindrance for this event. As mentioned above, this is mainly from 8th Feb to 18th February’17.
The more sustained closure starting Feb 19th till April 30th is meant for runway maintenance and repairs. The Bangalore airport has seen growth in its traffic by several folds over the last couple of years with several national and international carriers flying in and out of here. This traffic is further expected to grow and these repairs are in preparations for the same.
As per reports, work will be going on in several areas through the day with the mentioned time being used just for things which will hinder the operation of the airport.
What does this mean for Bangalore Passengers?
If you already have tickets booked during the time when the runway has been closed, the flights would have either been rescheduled or canceled. Please check with your airline to ensure you have the latest details.
Also, this would mean that more flights would be flying out/in at other times than usual. This will impact the number of people at the airport at any given time. Plan to reach the airport atleast 90mins earlier to manage through long queues. Do make sure you avail the Vayu Vajra Bangalore Airport Bus Service for a hassle-free experience. It may be crowded but the frequency is predictable.
Though it’s expected that the number of cabs plying to the airport during these days will be higher, from experience I can tell you that unless you have pre-booked cabs, getting an uber or ola from the airport can be a challenge. So plan well.
Bangalore Airport Contact Info
Toll Free: 1800 425 4425 (24×7)
WhatsApp: +91 888 499 8888 ( 24×7)
Feedback Desk Email : [email protected] (24×7)
Note – I share information on this blog to help my readers and it’s critical to ensure that all information is current. So if you want to share your experience in using the Bangalore Airport during these times, please share in the comments below for the benefit of others.
Oh yes i remember the time last year. I also had my flight cancelled. But now the expansion has taken place i think as my recent visit showed a much facilitated and on time landing and take offs. Good going and well maintained.