Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a popular destination known for its lush landscapes, serene backwaters, and vibrant culture. As such, the state boasts several airports to accommodate the influx of tourists and business travelers. In this blog, we’ll delve into the specifics of Kerala’s airports, answer some commonly asked questions, and provide insights into the state’s air connectivity.
Major Airports in Kerala
Kerala is served by four major international airports, each strategically located to serve different parts of the state:
- Cochin International Airport (COK)
- Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV)
- Calicut International Airport (CCJ)
- Kannur International Airport (CNN)
Cochin International Airport, located in Nedumbassery, about 25 kilometers northeast of Kochi, is one of the busiest airports in Kerala. It is well-known for being the first airport in the world to operate entirely on solar power.
Is Cochin/Kochi and Ernakulam airport the same?
Yes, Cochin International Airport, also referred to as Kochi Airport, serves the city of Kochi and the surrounding Ernakulam district. While Ernakulam does not have its own separate airport, Cochin International Airport effectively serves this region.
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is located in the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram, and is one of the oldest airports in Kerala. It serves as a significant gateway for international travellers, especially from the Middle East.
Is Trivandrum & Thiruvananthapuram Int. Airport the same?
Yes, Trivandrum International Airport and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport are the same. Thiruvananthapuram is the official name of the city, and Trivandrum is its anglicised form.
Calicut International Airport, also known as Karipur Airport, is located in Karipur, near the city of Kozhikode. This airport serves the northern parts of Kerala and is a crucial hub for travelers to and from the Malabar region.
Is Karipur/Calicut/Kozhikode Int. Airport the same?
Yes, these names refer to the same airport. Calicut International Airport is often called Karipur Airport or Kozhikode Airport interchangeably, as it serves the Kozhikode (Calicut) region and is situated in Karipur.
Kannur International Airport, the newest addition to Kerala’s aviation infrastructure, is located in Mattanur, near Kannur. It significantly enhances the connectivity of the northern parts of Kerala and supports both domestic and international flights.
Is Cannanore & Kannur Int. Airport the same?
Yes, Cannanore and Kannur Int. Airport are the same. Cannanore’ is the anglicised form of the Malayalam word Kannur
Connectivity and Nearby Airports
Q: Which Airports in Kerala have the most connectivity?
Cochin International Airport (COK) and Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) are the most well-connected airports in Kerala. Cochin International Airport, with its extensive network of domestic and international flights, stands out for its connectivity to major global hubs. Trivandrum International Airport also offers a robust network, particularly with flights to the Middle East and domestic destinations.
Q: Which Airports in Kerala have the most connectivity?
Several nearby airports outside Kerala can serve as alternative entry points, depending on your location and travel plans:
- Mangalore International Airport (IXE) – Located in Karnataka, it is a convenient option for travellers heading to the northern parts of Kerala.
- Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) – Situated in Tamil Nadu, this airport is a viable alternative for those travelling to the Palakkad and Malappuram regions.
- Bengaluru International Airport (BLR) – Although further away, Bengaluru Airport can be considered for travel to the northern and central parts of Kerala, offering a wider range of international connections.
Conclusion
Kerala’s airports play a pivotal role in facilitating travel to this picturesque state. Whether you’re flying into Kochi, Trivandrum, Calicut, or Kannur, each airport offers unique advantages and extensive connectivity options. Understanding the nuances of these airports, including their various names and proximities, can help you plan your travel more efficiently. Safe travels as you explore the enchanting state of Kerala!
