Does the roar of a WWII-era aircraft still echo in the modern terminals of Agra Airport? Agra Airport stands as a testament to Agra’s growth. It reflects both military history and civilian accessibility. Officially known as Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport, Agra Airport is also known as Kheria Airport.
Established in 1947, Agra Airport has witnessed decades of aviation advancements. The airport began as Royal Air Forces Station Agra during World War II. It played a crucial role as a maintenance and supply hub for Allied forces. Later, it transitioned to the Royal Indian Air Force. The prefix Royal was dropped. It became a vital base for the Indian Air Force.
Wing Commander Shivdev Singh commanded the station. Agra Airport initially fell under the Western Air Command. In 1971, it transitioned to the Central Air Command. Agra Airport continues to serve under this command today.
Agra Airport has supported various aircraft. These include C-47 Dakotas, AN-32s, and IL-76s. Today, it hosts the IL-78MKI refuelling aircraft. No. 78 Squadron operates these aircraft.
During World War II, the United States Army Air Forces established a major maintenance facility here. It was named Agra Air Depot. The 3rd Air Depot Group serviced numerous aircraft. These aircraft supported forces in Burma and China. Agra Air Depot stockpiled supplies for shipment over the Himalayas. This route was known as “The Hump”. Agra Airport became a key stopover on the Karachi-Kunming air transport route.
Ernest Gann mentions Agra Airport in his book “Fate Is the Hunter”. He recounts nearly destroying the Taj Mahal. This near-miss occurred after taking off in an overloaded C-87 aircraft.
Today, Agra Airport operates with two runways. Runway 05/23 measures 2,743.2 meters. Runway 12/30 is 1,817.83 meters long. Agra Airport has ILS CAT-II compliance for landing in poor weather.
The current terminal spans 4,870 square meters. It accommodates 250 arrivals and 250 departures. A new terminal is planned. The Air Force Arjun Nagar Gate provides passenger entry.
Expansion plans are underway. The Uttar Pradesh government approved land acquisition for upgrades. The expansion will facilitate international operations. A new 30,000 square meter terminal is planned. It will accommodate nine Airbus A321 aircraft. Runway extensions and other facilities are included.
IndiGo operates flights from Agra Airport to Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. Agra Airport enhances connectivity to major Indian cities.
Located seven kilometers east of Agra, Agra Airport offers convenient access. It is close to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Various transportation options connect the airport to the city center. These include taxis, auto-rickshaws and buses.
Agra Airport is more than a transit point. It represents Agra’s rich history and modern ambitions. It continues to evolve. The airport ensures seamless travel experiences. It also supports economic growth in the region. Agra Airport is an important gateway to Uttar Pradesh.