- It is Manipur’s primary air gateway, located 8 km from Imphal city, and one of the busiest airports in Northeast India.
- Operated by AAI, the airport handles domestic and limited international flights, offering modern facilities and essential passenger services.
- It plays a vital role in boosting tourism, trade, education, and regional connectivity, with future expansion plans including a new integrated terminal.
Airport in Imphal
The airport in Imphal, officially known as Bir Tikendrajit International Airport (IMF), serves the city of Imphal, the capital of Manipur, and the surrounding northeastern regions of India.
Located around 8 kilometers south of the city center, it is one of the busiest airports in Northeast India, connecting Manipur to major cities across India.
Imphal, known for its rich culture, heritage, and scenic beauty, depends heavily on the airport for tourism, business, and connectivity.
Overview of Imphal Airport
Bir Tikendrajit International Airport is operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
It is the second-largest airport in the Northeast region, after Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.
Originally a domestic airport, it was upgraded and inaugurated as an international airport to enhance regional and global connectivity under India’s Act East Policy.
The airport plays a crucial role in linking Manipur with the rest of the country and supporting tourism, trade, and education in the region.
Airport Code
The airport code for Bir Tikendrajit International Airport is IMF.
This code is used for flight bookings, baggage handling, and identification in all travel systems.
Facilities at Imphal Airport
Imphal Airport offers all essential facilities for domestic and limited international travelers.
Passenger Terminal
- Single terminal for both domestic and limited international operations.
- Capacity to handle around 1,000 passengers during peak hours.
- Equipped with modern check-in counters, baggage handling systems, and security infrastructure.
Lounges and Waiting Areas
- Comfortable seating and air-conditioned lounges.
- VIP and business-class facilities for premium passengers.
Food and Beverages
- Small refreshment counters offering tea, coffee, and snacks.
- Limited food outlets and local souvenir shops available inside the terminal.
Transport and Connectivity
- Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and private cabs available outside the airport.
- Travel time to Imphal city center: 15–20 minutes.
- Good road connectivity to Thoubal, Kakching, and Ukhrul.
Parking
- Designated parking spaces for cars, two-wheelers, and buses.
- Easy drop-off and pick-up zones near the terminal.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair and escort assistance for senior citizens and differently-abled passengers.
- Basic medical and first-aid services available.
Connectivity of Imphal Airport
Domestic Destinations
Imphal Airport connects to several major Indian cities, including:
- Delhi (DEL) – Direct and connecting flights.
- Kolkata (CCU) – Frequent daily flights.
- Guwahati (GAU) – Important regional route.
- Aizawl, Agartala, Dibrugarh, and Silchar – Key northeastern destinations.
International Connectivity
- Currently, Imphal Airport has limited international operations, primarily seasonal flights to Mandalay (Myanmar) and other nearby destinations proposed under the Act East Policy.
Airlines Operating
- Major airlines include IndiGo, Air India, Alliance Air, and Akasa Air (on select routes).
Importance of Airport in Imphal
Economic Growth
- Supports trade and commerce in Manipur by improving logistics and business mobility.
- Facilitates import-export of handicrafts, organic products, and local goods.
Tourism and Culture
- Provides access to tourist attractions such as:
- Loktak Lake
- Kangla Fort
- Ima Keithel (Women’s Market)
- Shree Govindajee Temple
- Encourages eco-tourism and cultural exchange in the Northeast.
Education & Healthcare
- Enables students and professionals to travel to other cities for higher education and career opportunities.
- Supports medical travel for patients seeking advanced healthcare outside the state.
Regional Integration
- Strengthens connectivity within the Northeast region and supports the government’s push for regional integration and infrastructure development.
Travel Experience at Imphal Airport
Passengers can expect a clean, efficient, and scenic travel experience at Imphal Airport.
- Quick security and check-in process.
- Courteous airport staff and organized boarding.
- Scenic aerial views of green hills and valleys surrounding Imphal.
Future Developments
Several projects are planned to enhance Imphal Airport’s capacity and services:
- Construction of a new integrated terminal building with higher passenger capacity.
- Upgradation of runway and apron to handle larger aircraft.
- Expansion of cargo facilities for regional exports.
- Plans for additional international routes under India’s Act East Policy.
Conclusion
The airport in Imphal – Bir Tikendrajit International Airport (IMF) – serves as the main air gateway to Manipur and the northeastern region of India.
With its strategic location, improving infrastructure, and increasing flight connectivity, it plays a vital role in regional development, tourism, and trade.
For travelers visiting Manipur, Imphal Airport provides a comfortable, efficient, and scenic travel experience, connecting the state with the rest of India and beyond.
