Hyderabad - The Land of Nizams is a culturally rich city and the capital of Telangana. Since the town acts as a vital centre for business and culinary dishes, there is a massive influx of people from different cities and countries. To welcome people visiting Hyderabad or other parts of Telangana, the government has built the famous Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India, famously known as the Hyderabad Airport. Located in Shamshabad, it is the largest airport in India, covering approximately 5500 acres.

Besides being an essential civilian airport in Hyderabad, RGIA is the busiest airport, managing more than 50,000 passengers daily. In fact, in 2022, it recorded 21 million passengers annually. We have covered some more exciting facts about the Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in the blog below. Keep Reading!

Overview of Rajiv Gandhi International Airport

Image Source: Shutterstock

The Hyderabad International Airport started operating in 2008 after replacing Begumpet Airport. It is currently the largest and busiest airport in India and a central transportation hub for people visiting Hyderabad for travel or business purposes.

It is operated by GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHAIL), a joint venture between GMR Group and the Airport of India, Malaysia Airports Holdings, and the Government of Telangana.

One of the reasons authorities decided to upgrade the earlier Begumpet Airport is its inability to accommodate the increasing footfall. Since the town is close to different parts of Telangana, it was chosen as the ideal location for building an international airport. Also, passengers can look for a hotel near Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad. From budget to luxury hotels, there are multiple options available.

Currently, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India, serves as the central hub for commercial flights in India and internationally and handles 159000 tons of cargo annually. Additionally, it serves 20 International and 3 Indian passenger carriers and has 9 domestic carriers operating to around 65 domestic destinations.

Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Infrastructure

The infrastructure of Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India, is widely considered the best in the country, and advanced passenger assistance is available throughout the airport. It has two runways. The first, inaugurated in 2012, is used for accommodating Airbus 380. In addition, the airport has two cargo terminals, training facilities, a fuel farm, and a solar power plant.

There are two terminals- the eastern terminal is dedicated to domestic flights, and the western is for international operations.

Besides these, there are other essential facilities at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport India. These are-

• Immigration Counters-34
• Check-in Counters- 85
• Transfer Desk
• In-line Baggage Handlin System (4-level of detection)
• 9 Gates
• Information Desk
• Emergency Medical Services
• Free Wi-fi connectivity
• Baby Care Rooms
• Duty-free shopping
• Sanitary Pad Vending Machine
• Digi Yatra
• Lounges
• Atithya- Meet and Assist Services

On-Site Units at Hyderabad International Airport

The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport India has some on-site units serving different purposes. Some of these are-

Aviation Training

The GMR Aviation Academy (GMR AA) was founded in 2009 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Shamshabad, Hyderabad, to offer professional training and improve the knowledge and abilities of GMR Airports' staff. Indian ICAO, ACI, IATA, DGCA, and BCAS recognise it.

The Academy is the only one of its kind in India to have received the ACI's "Global Training Hub" designation and the ICAO's "Regional Training Centre of Excellence" (RTCE) status. Additionally, it is an IATA Accredited Training School and Authorized Training Centre.

Hyderabad Duty-Free

Image Source: Shutter Stock

Hyderabad Duty-Free at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), Hyderabad, is a division of GMR Hospitality and Retail Limited that operates duty-free stores. Over 3.5 million foreign passengers use HDF, which spans 2746 square meters in both arrivals and departures, as a tax and duty-free retail destination at RGIA.

HDF, which has expanded quickly over the last six years, offers a wide range of premium brands in spirits, perfume, confections and hand-picked souvenirs, along with an unparalleled shopping experience.

Cargo Terminal

The airport's cargo terminal handles around 150,000 tonnes of cargo annually and is specially equipped to handle pharmaceutical products.

Solar Power Unit

The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India, has a solar power unit to meet the daily energy demand and contribute to green energy. At present, the plant's capacity is 30MW to enable better power demand.

In-Flight Catering

LSG Sky Chefs (India) Pvt. Ltd. and Sky Gourmet Culinary Pvt. Ltd. run the concessions awarded by GHIAL to build, operate, maintain, oversee, and expand the in-flight culinary facilities. A separate 2.5-acre space within the airport premises manages the in-flight catering.

GMR Aero Technic Ltd MRO

There are two MROs at the RGIA, including the one run by GMR Aero Technic Ltd. The facility, which was completed in March 2012 at a cost of ₹3.5 billion (US$42 million), can accommodate up to five aircraft at once. The MRO was first a joint venture between Malaysian Aerospace Engineering (MAE), a division of Malaysia Airlines, and GMR Group.

However, MAE was unable to finance the MRO, which had been losing money because of its parent company's dire financial circumstances after the Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 disaster. GMR acquired MAE's share in December 2014.

GMR Aero Technic Ltd is the only MRO in India's private sector with substantial expertise in maintaining Airbus A320 family aircraft, Boeing 737, ATR 72/42, and Bombardier DHC Q400 aircraft.

Overview of General Aviation Terminal at the Hyderabad International Airport

Hyderabad International Airport has built a separate facility for General Aviation and private aircraft. For those who prefer using private jets, this state-of-the-art facility, spread over 11,234 sq. ft, is near the main airport.

It has facilities including-

• A dedicated Entry Gate for the terminal
• Private Lounge
• Common Lounge
• Separate Car Parking
• Immigration and emigration facility
• Custom Check
• Hand-baggage process

Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Transfer Service

The transfer service between Rajiv Gandhi International Airport India with other parts of Telangana is quite good. Whether you are looking for a transfer service or any rental car, you will find it easily from the airport.

Cabs/Taxis

You can book your cab/taxi in advance or in real-time using prepaid and postpaid services.

Bus

The airport runs a Pushpak Airport Liner that connects the airport to various parts of the city.

Hotels Near Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Hyderabad

If you are looking for a hotel near Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Hyderabad, you will have some good options to choose from. You have the option of choosing between 5 star to 4-star hotels. Some of these are-

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Hotel

The only international hotel close to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is the Novotel Hyderabad, which is easily accessible from major parts of the city and only a 30-minute drive away. It is the city’s top eco-friendly hotel that helps you unwind after a long day.

The hotel is the best location for both business and pleasure thanks to its 292 rooms, 70,000 square feet of flexible conference space, two different food and beverage locations, and state-of-the-art sports and recreation facilities.

Hotel Hyderabad Grand

One of the most opulent and contemporary hotels near the airport is the Hotel Hyderabad Grand. It is the perfect option for tourists because it provides opulent lodging at a reasonable cost. The hotel's 122 rooms are divided into Presidential Suites, Standard Rooms, and Suite Rooms. In addition to having comfortable, contemporary furnishings, all the hotel's rooms are well-lit, roomy, and equipped with modern conveniences.

Taj Falaknuma Palace

Although not very close to Hyderabad airport, it is best for those who want to have a luxury stay. It is 16.8 km away from the airport and is a heritage property promising a grand stay. From exclusive suite rooms to dining venues, you can enjoy the best experience here.

Transit by Encalm

Image Source: bizbuzz.com

Transit by Encalm, situated in Shamshabad near Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), offers more than simply a place to sleep; it's an experience to remember. For passengers looking for a comfortable and restful stay during their transit, our most recent foray into airport hospitality offers unmatched convenience and comfort.

From premium accommodation to an en route cafe and modern stay facilities, you will have everything here.

Summing it Up

The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport India is certainly the most advanced airport in India. With its proximity to vital city locations, including Gachibowli, Hitech City, Jubilee Hills, and others, passengers find it easy to travel. From a business perspective too, the airport offers good ROI on your investment.