Kannur International Airport (Cannanore International Airport, IATA: CNN, ICAO: VOCL), also known as the “northern gateway to Kerala,” is an international airport serving the North Malabar region of the Indian state of Kerala. Located in Mattannur, about 28 km from Kannur city, it’s the fourth international airport in Kerala and the largest in terms of runway length. This state-of-the-art airport is a testament to India’s growing aviation sector and a key driver of economic growth in the region.
A Brief History of Kannur International Airport
The idea of an airport in Kannur was first conceived in the 1970s, driven by the need to cater to the large expatriate population from North Malabar. After decades of planning and development, Kannur International Airport was finally inaugurated on December 9, 2018. The airport was built by the Kannur International Airport Limited (KIAL), a public-private partnership venture with the Government of Kerala as the majority shareholder.
World-Class Infrastructure and Facilities
Kannur International Airport boasts world-class infrastructure and facilities designed to offer a seamless travel experience. The airport’s 3,050-meter-long runway is capable of handling wide-bodied aircraft like the Boeing 777 and Airbus A330. The spacious terminal building, with a floor area of 100,000 square meters, can accommodate 2,000 passengers at peak hours.
Some of the key features of Kannur International Airport include:
- Integrated passenger terminal: With a capacity of 4 million passengers per annum, the terminal is equipped with modern amenities like self-check-in kiosks, baggage handling systems, and immigration counters.
- Air cargo terminal: With a capacity of 100,000 tonnes per annum, the dedicated cargo terminal is designed to handle both domestic and international cargo.
- Parking facilities: The airport has ample parking space for cars, buses, and taxis.
- Connectivity: The airport is well connected to major cities in India and abroad through a network of domestic and international flights.
Kannur International Airport: A Boost to Tourism and Economy
The opening of Kannur International Airport has had a significant positive impact on the tourism and economy of North Malabar. The airport has made the region more accessible to tourists, opening up new avenues for tourism development. It has also created new employment opportunities and attracted investments in various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and logistics.
Mr. Anoop Kumar, a leading tourism professional in Kerala, believes that “Kannur International Airport has the potential to become a major tourist destination in South India. The airport has made it easier for tourists to access the beautiful beaches, backwaters, and hill stations of North Malabar.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Kannur International Airport
Q1: Where is Kannur International Airport located?
A1: Kannur International Airport is located in Mattannur, approximately 28 km from Kannur city in Kerala, India.
Q2: What airlines operate flights to and from Kannur International Airport?
A2: Several major domestic and international airlines operate flights to and from Kannur International Airport, including Air India, IndiGo, Go First, Air India Express, and Emirates.
Q3: How can I book a taxi or cab from Kannur International Airport?
A3: Pre-paid taxi booths and cab services are available at the airport for hassle-free transportation to your destination.
Q4: What are the facilities available for passengers with disabilities at the airport?
A4: Kannur International Airport is a barrier-free airport with facilities like ramps, lifts, accessible restrooms, and dedicated assistance for passengers with disabilities.
Connecting Kannur with the World
Kannur International Airport is not just an airport; it’s a symbol of progress and a testament to the aspirations of the people of North Malabar. It has opened up new opportunities for the region and is playing a crucial role in its economic and social development. With its world-class infrastructure and connectivity to major cities across the globe, Kannur International Airport is poised to become a major aviation hub in South India.
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