Bhubaneswar to Mumbai AirAsia Flights

  About Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is the temple city of India and deservedly so. The City is known for its grand temples and the beautiful architecture and attracts tourists and pilgrims from all over India. In fact, Bhubaneshwar literally translates to 'Lord of the Universe'. The City is an architectural marvel. Though the City is famous for its temples, there are other reasons for you to visit the City, too. Situated in Orissa, Bhubaneswar is also home to a lot of animals like deers and White Tigers. You'll also find Museums in the City that will showcase the arts, crafts and splendid artefacts.

The Lingaraj Temple is one of the most visited temples in the City. It is ancient and has a lot of religious importance. It sees a lot of devotees who come to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva throughout the year. The Parasurameswara temple, which was constructed in 650 AD, is unique because of the one thousand lingas present in the north-west corner of the complex. The Brahmeshwara temple is yet another marvel and a great example of the Oriya architecture, that was built in the 11th century. The Ananta Vasudev temple, built by Queen Chandrika, has Lord Krishna residing in it. The Vaishnavi sculptures will leave you impressed and are a treat to the eyes.

The Museum of Tribal Arts and Artefacts is a must-visit for anyone who stops to appreciate and admire art whenever they get the opportunity. You'll get to see a lot of traditional costumes, jewellery, weapons, gears and farming equipment at the museum. It will leave you in awe of the artists. The Kedar Gauri Temple, which is one of the eight Asthasambhu Temples, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri. The Mahashivratri celebrations across Bhubaneswar. You will feel overwhelmed to see the processions and be a part of the festivities.

Visit the Pathani Samantha Planetarium. It is named after the famous astronomer of the same name. Catch the audiovisual shows put up by the authorities. The City is also known for Khandagiri Caves, a series of artificial caves which dates back to the 2nd century. The caves are of great historical significance.

Don't miss visiting the Ramachandi beach, which is 65 km away from the City. It's a beautiful beach that sees the Bay of Bengal and River Kushabhadra converging. It's a sight to behold and one of the best places to take pictures at, too. The beach is accessible quite easily and is a popular location for young couples, tourists and students residing in the City.

Bhubaneswar experiences extreme summers but also intense rainfalls during monsoon. However, that does not stop people from venturing out, and the rains only add to the beauty of the City. October to February is the ideal time to visit the City since the city experiences winter during these months. While you are in Bhubaneswar, make sure you try the Machha Jholo, fish curry that is a speciality here. You must also try the Cuttack chaat, Badi Choora, Rasagola and the Abadha. The vegetarian food served in temples is also a treat to your taste buds. The list of things to do and places to see in Bhubaneswar is endless. Since Bhubaneswar is the capital of Orissa, it is well-connected to all the major cities. Biju Patnaik Airport is 5 km away from the City and is the nearest airport.

Best Time to Visit Bhubaneswar

The ideal time to visit the City is during winters which are from October to February. This is a peak season for tourists and is also ideal for sightseeing. The City experiences monsoon from June to September. Bhubaneswar experiences heavy rainfall, and it is not the most favourable time to visit the City. It will definitely put a damper on all of your outdoor plans. The summer starts from March and lasts till May. The scorching heat and the high humidity make it quite unbearable for you to venture out. This is also why you shouldn't visit Bhubaneswar during summer. The afternoons can get pretty harsh during summer.

Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is known for its temples. The Lingaraj Temple is one of the most popularly visited temples, and devotees of Lord Shiva come to offer their prayers throughout the year. You can also visit the Parasurameswara and the Brahmeshwara temple. Not only will you feel at peace by offering your prayers, but you will also be in awe of the expert Oriya architecture. You can also visit the Ananta Vasudev temple that was built by Queen Chandrika to offer her prayers to her deity, Lord Krishna. The City has a religious significance and is also considered holy. Devotees always leave with a smile and a sense of relief on their faces after visiting the temples.

The City also plays host to a lot of museums like the Museum of Tribal Arts and Artefacts and the Orissa State Museum. You will know more about the City, its culture and ancient art. You will also come across a lot of untold stories during the construction of these marvels. The Nandankanan Zoological Park, established in 1960, is another place you must visit in the City. You will spot different species of tigers and other animals in the zoo. There are also a lot of wildlife sanctuaries that will appease the wildlife photographer in you. Take home all the memories of spotting exotic wildlife in these sanctuaries.

Don't miss visiting the Ramachandi Beach. The beach is quite unique since it sees the convergence of the Bay of Bengal and River Kushabhadra. It's only 7 km away from Konark and a top-rated destination among tourists, too. The City also has a lot of parks for you to visit with your family. Another location for you to take great pictures.

Things to do in the City in Bhubaneswar

Visit all the temples in the City, starting with the Lingaraj temple. Don't just offer your prayers and admire the striking architecture of the temples but also try to discover the stories inception of the temple and the religious importance of it. Find a priest or a knowledgeable person and get them to tell you the stories about the temple. You'll surely leave with a lot of information, things that you never knew before. While the rulers made some of the temples out of respect and devotion to their deities, some have mythological stories and incidents attached.

The City has a lot of historical importance and artistic significance, too. There are a lot of human-made marvels in this City. Visit the Museum of Tribal Arts and Artefacts that showcases the exquisite collections of 62 tribes of Odisha. Explore the culture of all of these tribes and the history of Orissa, too. You can also visit the Nandankanan Zoological Park, the Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary, the Ekamra Kanan and more sanctuaries to treat the animal lover in you.

Since it's the capital city, it's easier to find and book a hotel as per your budget and convenience. Make sure you find something closer to the tourist attractions so you won't have to spend more time travelling. While you visit the Ramachandi beach, you can sit there and admire the waves or read your favourite book. It's the perfect place to chill and embrace solitude. You won't regret visiting and holidaying in Bhubaneswar for sure.

Foods and Restaurants in Bhubaneswar

Apart from the local speciality, you will also find restaurants that serve other cuisines that you might crave for. Even though it is a city with a lot of temples, you will find certain places that serve non-vegetarian food. Do try the Machha Jholo if you are a fan of seafood. Do not leave without taking back home a pot of rasagolas. Since the City is usually always budding with tourists, finding a decent restaurant is not a tedious task. If you are craving for some South-Indian food, do stop by at Truptee Restaurant. It is famous for its variety of dosas and other South Indian snacks.

Tangerine 9 is yet another restaurant that serves mouth-watering food at reasonable prices. You can also give the Hare Krishna restaurant a try. It's a delight for vegetarians and worth every penny spent. Not just their food but even the special ghee that they serve will leave you impressed.

How to reach Bhubaneswar

By Air

The nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport and is also the only international airport in Orissa. It connects the City to all of the domestic routes and international routes as well. You can get fair flight deals online and cheap flight tickets, if you are lucky.

By Rail

The Bhubaneswar railway station is well-connected to all the major cities in the country. You will also find a taxi or a bus easily from outside the station to your hotel.

By Road

A lot of deluxe buses with AC coaches and government buses will be available from major cities and the nearby ones, too. You can also take a private cab or drive to Bhubaneswar.

 About Mumbai

Mumbai is to India is what New York is to America, a city of dreams. The place with its rich heritage and urbane culture has since forever brought forth people from all walks of life together. It is also recognised as the commercial capital of India with over millions of migrants flocking over from different parts of the country and even world! Mumbai is the second big city in India after Delhi and has a busy airport as well as an active lifestyle. The city has far too many beautiful places to visit and culture to take in. Mumbai has been named after Mumba Devi and is the state Maharashtra's capital. The flight connectivity of Mumbai is splendid with various major cities in the world, making it one of the most important cities.

Best time to visit Mumbai

Fixing an ideal season to visit Mumbai can be tricky as the city is always bustling with energy and travellers. The winters in Mumbai are pleasant as the temperatures drop, and the city's festive spirit takes over. Even though the atmosphere is humid during winter, the city life would not cease to amaze you. Mumbai's monsoon is legendary as everybody loves and hates the city's rains at the same time. From June to September, the city of Mumbai experiences heavy rain which could be cumbersome for travelling but beautiful nevertheless. Flight tickets to Mumbai are often a little pricey as the city is an important commercial hub. The living expenses and accommodation has a range from cheap to extravagant. You can book a hotel in Mumbai or pick the hostel life.

Places to visit in Mumbai

The city is full of vibrant places and heritages to explore. The top attractions of Mumbai include the Gateway of India. Located right at the Colaba bay is the beautiful gate-like structure build by the Britishers. The structure continues to attract tourists to this day as it faces the beautiful Arabian Sea on one side and the Taj Mahal hotel on the other. While you're exploring South Mumbai, you should check out the ancient Asian Library which is located at Horniman Circle. The steps of the library is a prime spot for concerts hosted by Kala Ghoda Festival. You should also visit the Taraporewala Aquarium which has some beautiful marine life, including the remains of an enormous whale. The Nehru Planetarium located in Worli is an interesting complex where you will be blessed with some fabulous mysteries of the universe.

Beaches

Located on the coast, Mumbai's shores touch the Arabian Sea. The crowded beaches might not be clean as compared to some of the pristine blue shores of Goa or Kerala, but the vibrant energy of people enjoying the sunset on the beach is a wholesome experience. You can check out beaches such as Juhu Beach, Versova Beach, Girgaum Chowpatty Beach, Gorai Beach and Aksa Beach, to name a few. A little away from the city centre lies this untouched beach called Rajodi Beach, where you can actually learn how to surf.

Pilgrimage

Mumbai is also famous for its love for Lord Ganesha. The famous Siddhivinayak Temple is interestingly located at the heart of the city, in Dadar. The temple sees a staggering footfall regularly as many devotees worship the power of Lord Ganesha. During Ganesh Chaturthi, the pandals built around the temple looks exquisite. Another important pilgrimage is the Haji Ali, located on the Arabian Sea and connected to the city by a narrow bridge. Close to the Haji Ali is the Mahalakshmi Temple, also nestled by the edge of the sea. You should also visit Mount Mary in Bandra. Other important temples include Mumba Devi and ISKCON.

Things to do in Mumbai

Walk on the promenade popularly known as Marine Drive

The much-hyped Marine Drive, also known as Queen's Necklace, is a promenade constructed by the city. Many movies have been shot with Marine Drive as the backdrop. There is literally no reason yet every reason to check out this place, sit over the promenade and stare at the wide sea.

Shop at Colaba Causeway Market

Colaba Causeway is another prominent marketplace in the city that is forever crowded. Causeway's collection of accessories, clothes, chappals and the area, everything is a vibe that you'd want to be a part of. Plus, famous cafes such as Mondegar and Leopold are also located here.

Spend a day at Goregaon Film City

Mumbai's biggest highlight and gift to the world is Bollywood. Home to one of the biggest film industries in the world, the Goregaon Film City is one such place you simply cannot miss when in the city. Watch the actors play their roles in a make-believe set that you've always watched in the comfort of your couch at home.

Explore the Sanjay Gandhi National Park

A little away from the city centre is the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, also known as the city's lungs, is a vast expanse of lush green forest. You can rent cycles and explore the national park, opt for trekking and trek the trails leading to Kanheri Caves or simply just pack a lunch and indulge in some picnic at the park.

Food and Restaurants in Mumbai

The list of places with the best food in Mumbai is exhausting. The city, with its urban lifestyle, has a type of restaurant and food for every kind of crowd. For the ones who want to get their hands dirty (literally) with Mumbai's street food culture, Khao gallis is the place to be at. There are many Khao gallis in the city, starting from Churchgate to Ghatkopar. These lanes are dedicated spots for hawkers and street food owners to sell their speciality. You'll find vada pavs, pav bhaji stalls, chat corners, Anna with his slew of South Indian dishes like idli, vada, dosa, guys selling small street pizzas, frankie rolls, etc.

For the ones who wish to indulge in some pricey lounge setting, you should head to Masala Library, Gaylord, Hakkasan, The Bombay Canteen, Olive, The Clearing House, Bastian, Wasabi, to name a few. These places are celebrated and have been founded by renowned chefs from the culinary field. If you do not have any preferences as such, then you should visit some of the popular cafes and restaurants that have been part of Mumbai for a long time. These include Kyani's, Britannia & Co, Bademiya, Cafe Madras, Cafe Mondegar, Sardar Pav Bhaji, Cafe Gulshan, Cafe Leopold, O Pedro, Imbiss, to name a few.

How to reach Mumbai

By Air

Mumbai is one of the busiest cities in India, as is the city's domestic and international airport. As the commercial capital of the country, the city's domestic and international airports are admirably connected to big cities in the country and globally. Flights to and from Mumbai fly to various big cities in India such as Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Guwahati and basically most of the cities in the country. Formerly known by the name Sahar International Airport, the airport was re-christened to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Terminal 2) while the domestic airport has been named Santacruz Airport (Terminal 1). It is important for you to know from which terminal you'll be boarding the flight from Mumbai as they are located in two diverse sides of the city.

The airport has major Indian and international airlines stationed at the airport. These include IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Etihad Airways, Emirates and more. Mumbai's international routes are crowded too as there are multitudes of flights flying to global cities namely, New York, San Francisco, Dubai, Hong Kong, Beijing, London, Tokyo and more. Travelling from the airport within the city is quite convenient as there are taxi cabs, Ola and Uber services, rickshaws and buses that can be found right outside the airport. In fact, 1 km away from the airport is the Mumbai Metro which connects the city's varied geography.

By Rail

The railway network of Mumbai is touted to be one of the best in the city. It has direct train connections to various cities in India. These cities include Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad and more. The city has two main terminals namely Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Mumbai Central, from where you can take outstation trains. However, much recently, they opened the Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, which also connects to various parts of the country. There are mail trains and express trains that travel from the Mumbai city, including Mumbai Rajdhani, Duronto, Konkan Kanya Express and more. The excellent connectivity of Mumbai with other cities makes it easy to traverse.

By Road

Major national highways connect Mumbai to various parts of India. You can literally take a road trip to anywhere you want from Mumbai without any hassle. In fact, you can travel from any part of the country and reach Mumbai with its impeccable roadway connections. Not to mention how there are several buses run by the state and private owners that travel from the city regularly. Many travellers often opt for road trips as the roads leading up to Mumbai are beautiful. Travelling by buses is quite economical as well. 

  About Air Asia

AirAsia, a Malaysian airline with headquarters near Kuala Lumpur, is the largest airline in Malaysia destinations and fleet size. It has domestic and international flights operating to more than 65 destinations across 25 countries. It also has its affiliate airlines like the Thai AirAsia, AirAsia India, Philippines AirAsia, Indonesia AirAsia and AirAsia Japan with hubs at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok, Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, Ninoy Aquino International Airport in the Philippines, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Indonesia and Chubu Centrair International Airport in Japan. AirAsia began operations back in 1996 and was established in 1993 by a government-owned company called DRB-HICOM. However, it was later bought by Tony Fernandes and Kamarudin Meranun's company Tune Air Sdn Bhd. The two not only made the company successful and profitable but also launched new routes from Kuala Lumpur, which is its hub. AirAsia launched its first international flight to Bangkok in 2003 along with a second hub at Senai International Airport in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Later on, it started flights to other countries and cities like Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines and so on.

AirAsia operates majorly through its affiliate airlines which only makes expansion easier for the company. While AirAsia did team up with the Henan Working Group in China, things did not work out in their favour. They signed a non-binding agreement for about 12 months, and neither party renewed the contract when it expired. However, AirAsia flights do fly to different cities in China. AirAsia showed a keen interest in joining hands with India to begin their operations here since it fits their low-cost airline plans perfectly. Tata Sons holds a 49% stake in the airline. AirAsia was also the first foreign airline that set up an affiliate in India. Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru serves as the main hub of the airline. AirAsia Japan's first flight took off in 2012. AirAsia X, Indonesia AirAsia and Philippines AirAsia and Thai AirAsia and took off eventually.

AirAsia has won several accolades and awards over the years for its service and efficiency. It has been consistently earning the title 'World's Best Low-Cost Carrier' by Skytrax for 11 years in a row. It also won the World's Best Low-Cost Airline award at the World Airline awards in 2012. The airline recently launched its frequent flyer programme, and it has a ton of services for you to choose from on its website. You can also upgrade to a seat that converts into a flatbed or choose seats that are comfortable with extra legroom. Apart from that, the airline also offers hotel accommodation and other events that you can sign up for in the destination that you are visiting. Make sure you look up their website to know more about all the offers and services that AirAsia has to offer. The airline does make it a point to impress you and not leave the passengers disappointed at all.

Fleet Size of AirAsia

AirAsia operates at least 165 flights to more than 25 countries in the world. The airline has 97 aircraft that are in service at the moment and has also ordered 364 more to increase efficiency and frequency. Though it was previously operating the Boeing 737-300, it moved to Airbus A320 entirely. It has approximately 66 Airbus A320-200 aircraft in service that can accommodate 180 passengers. It also has 29 Airbus A320neo aircraft that accommodates 186 passengers and has ordered 11 more. While it has only 2 Airbus A321neo aircraft, it ordered for 353 more. It is one of the biggest aircraft that can accommodate up to 236 passengers. Every aircraft has something special about it. The A330 aircraft has a quiet zone for everyone who wants to enjoy a calm and peaceful journey. Meals are also served faster here. It also has a Twin seat facility where you will not have a stranger sitting next to you and can enjoy extra privacy. You can also upgrade to a Premium Flatbed if you are eligible for it. The seat reclines to become a flatbed, and you also get a pair of noise-cancelling headphones.

Additionally, you get free baggage allowance up to 40 kg, priority boarding, complimentary meals, pillow with duvet, access to the premium Red Lounge and ample in-flight entertainment. The airline is looking forward to expanding its services to a lot of other countries as well. It is also extending services to Ahmedabad and Croatia.

Air Asia Baggage Allowance

AirAsia has certain baggage allowance restrictions that you must follow. Unless you are eligible for a premium upgrade or you are willing to pay a nominal fee in addition to your flight fare, you will have to stick to 20 kg of check-in luggage and one cabin baggage that does not exceed 7 kg. However, if you are eligible for a premium upgrade, you get to carry check-in luggage up to 40 kg. Your baggage is pretty safe with the airline, and there have barely been any complaints from customers about losing their baggage. However, make sure you are not carrying anything that has been prohibited by the airline like explosives, flammable substances, toxic chemicals or drugs. You are also asked not to carry any sharp or blunt objects. A lot of passengers also tend to get confused as to whether they can pack their electronics in their check-in luggage or not. The airline advises you to carry your electronics, portable chargers and power banks in your cabin luggage. You will get priority baggage allowance if you are a premium passenger or if you want to use any of the deals that you have come across on their website. The airline also offers to deliver your luggage at your doorstep if you are a premium passenger.

In-flight Services

AirAsia's in-flight services are top-notch, and you will love the experience. You can either pre-book your meals, or you can choose from the menu during your flight. The menu is quite impressive, and the food is delicious. The in-flight entertainment services are only available in the AirAsia X (D7) flights, except for when you are flying to and from Bali, Saudi Arabia, Taipei, Okinawa or Singapore. You will have to book your Excite tab in advance since the units are limited. You will get headsets with your tab, and you can also opt for a snack combo with your tab. AirAsia X is the only flight that serves alcohol and wine onboard.

Popular Routes and Top Cities for AirAsia

AirAsia connects to various domestic and international routes daily. AirAsia India connects to most major cities in the country like Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Goa and so on. The international airline operates to and from Bali, Singapore, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, China, Japan, Thailand and the Philippines among other destinations. It connects to more than 25 countries, and since it has affiliated airlines in several countries, it only becomes easier for it to cover the cities in all of those countries as well. AirAsia also makes layovers pretty easy for you and makes sure that you are not bored. The airline also offers accommodation services, and you can go through it on their website. You might even get great discounts on your hotels if you book through the website. You can also make the most of AirAsia's boarding pass. All you have to do is show your boarding pass at your hotel or hostel to avail the offer but do this in advance. Make sure you also go through all the terms and conditions of the offer that you want to avail. AirAsia has a Premium Red Lounge at all of its hubs that you can use if you are a premium passenger.

Why Travel by AirAsia?

AirAsia has proven time and again that it can offer the best, convenient services at an affordable price. The flight connectivity is also excellent to/from most domestic and international destinations. The airline lures you in with stunning offers and a comfortable journey, too. Some of the aircraft also have a quiet zone for passengers who want to travel peacefully. AirAsia is also known for its punctuality, and there are barely any delays or inconveniences to passengers. If you are on vacation, you can also check out their services that include accommodation, car rentals, activities in the city and luggage delivery. Web check-in is the best way to avoid long queues at the airport, and it can be done easily through the website. You can check your flight status and AirAsia's flight schedules on your phone on their website. You can make the most of AirAsia's in-flight services. The staff does not give you a reason to complain at all. Booking an AirAsia flight ticket is also quite easy. You can either log in to the website to book it, or you can get your travel agent to do so. Please make sure you check their flight deals, too, while you book the ticket. If there are any ongoing offers on tickets and accommodation, you can opt for those to make your journey even better.

  About Bhubneshwar Airport

Biju Patnaik International Airport also referred to as Bhubaneswar Airport, is the primary international airport that serves the city of Bhubaneswar which is the capital of the state Odisha. The airport is located about 4 km south-west of the Bhubaneswar Railway Station and 6 km away from the main city. The city's main airport has been named after the former chief minister of the state of Odisha, Biju Patnaik. He is a famed aviator as well as a freedom fighter. Biju Patnaik International Airport is the 15th busiest airport in the country. As for the Airports Authority of India's list of airports, Biju Patnaik International Airport falls on the 11th busiest which a registered 27.9 per cent growth in the passenger and air traffic.

The airport came into existence in 1962 and was dedicated to catering to the travel needs of the citizens of Odisha. It is the first commercial airport to be installed in the state. The airport caters to domestic and international carriers, activities of which are divided into two terminals. In 2013, the former minister of civil aviation, Ajit Singh, inaugurated the newly refurbished Terminal 1 to enhance the travelling experience of the domestic passengers. Terminal 2 was also upgraded to handle better international operations. It received international stature in 2013 and commenced operations to international destinations.

About Bhubaneswar Airport Terminal

Along with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, Biju Patnaik International Airport is also recognised as a major civil aviation hub for Eastern India.

Terminal 1 - Terminal 1 was refurbished and inaugurated in 2013 to accommodate a passenger capacity of 4 million in a year. Lanco Infratech built it at the cost of INR 1.45 billion. The project upgradation was developed by the Airports Authority of India as part of their scheme to enhance 35 of their non-metro airports in India. Terminal 1 is equipped with two storeys and a total area of 18,240 square metres. The new terminal comprises of four aerobridges, several escalators, four elevators, 18 check-in counters, multiple seating and three arrival baggage conveyors. Terminal 1 also houses some lounges in the departure and arrival sections. There is a total of three VIP lounges also installed at the Biju Patnaik International Airport. The airport has been constructed keeping the green building standards on the check. There are sewage treatment plant and rainwater harvesting facilities located at the terminal. Reflecting the culture and tribal traditions of Odisha, the airport also has tribal paintings, sculptures, motif designs and several such artefacts.

Terminal 2 - Terminal 2 is reserved for international operations and was constructed in the mid-1960s. Originally, the terminal catered to domestic flight activities in the 1960s. However, with the addition of the new airport terminal building, the domestic operations were shifted. Biju Patnaik International Airport's terminal 2 comprises of six check-in counters, four customs counters, ten immigration counters, various facilities and a slew of seating area too.

Terminal 3 - Terminal 3 is a passenger terminal building that has been proposed by the airport's authority to expand its passenger handling to 8 million in a year. The terminal is set to spread across an area of 58,000 square metres for INR 9.3 billion. With this, Biju Patnaik International Airport's capacity would be increased from 3.5 million to 11.5 million. The positioning of the terminal started in 2019 with construction works to be completed in three years, as scheduled. Once completed, the terminal would be handling all domestic passenger activities with the existing 1 and 2 terminals catering to international flight activities.

About airport authority

Biju Patnaik International Airport is owned and operated by the Airports Authority of India. The government body was introduced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation under the Government of India and came into existence to cater to the infrastructural management and maintenance of civil aviation across the country. Overall, the airport's authority handles about 126 airports along with 11 international airports. Biju Patnaik International Airport also falls under the international airport list of the aviation body. The airport authority has brought forth several expansion, and upgradation plans to make Bhubaneswar Airport accessible and ideal for more airline activities. Much recently, they refurbished their terminals and have proposed for a new terminal that would cater to domestic operations. Meanwhile, the old two terminals would take care of international operations.

Following the repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic, Biju Patnaik International Airport's authority has announced that they would be changing their operations. Following the lifting of the lockdown, the airport plans to operate in a single shift that would only take place between 10 am to 6 pm. Overall, 16 flights with two flights per hour would be operated Special guidelines to avoid the abundant footfall of passengers will also be taken care of at the airport. They are handling limited cargo operations too.

Facilities at the Bhubaneswar Airport

ATMs – Biju Patnaik International Airport has installed four ATM kiosks at one spot that range from domestic to international banks. This makes it easier for international tourists to withdraw money without much hassle. It is available at the departure and the arrival sections of the terminal building.

WiFi – The airport also has WiFi facilities available. By using the local mobile number, the passengers can connect to the airport's WiFi network and avail the free services.

Child care rooms – To cater to parents travelling with infants, the airport has installed designed child care rooms. These rooms are well-equipped with baby products as well as comfortable chairs and changing tables. They also have some baby products such as powders and diapers, in case the parent has exhausted these products.

Lounge – An airport lounge is also present in the departure section where passengers with relevant passes can access. You can also make some payments and enter the comfortable lounge area. They provide great hospitality and good services.

Smoking lounge – As smoking is not allowed in public spaces, the airport has reserved special smoking zones for passengers. These spaces can be utilised, and even boxes of cigarettes can be purchased at the airport.

Medical services – With a view to dealing with medical emergencies, the airport has installed relevant services. There is a special team of doctors and medical professionals who are present at the airport to deal with emergency cases. Plus, there are pharmacies also present at the airport.

Baggage – The baggage services offered by Biju Patnaik International Airport are quite good. You can opt for wrapping services, porter services, conduct thorough security checks of bags and even use the trolleys.

Top airlines flying from the Bhubaneswar Airport

Currently, the airport has some of the top domestic airlines functioning from the premise. In fact, airlines that operate from Biju Patnaik International Airport include AirAsia India, Air India, Alliance Air, GoAir, IndiGo and Vistara. These flights from Biju Patnaik International Airport connect to major Indian cities such as Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Varanasi, Surat and Ranchi, to name a few. The airport also caters to one international airline, AirAsia, which connects to Kuala Lumpur. The services to the Malaysian capital has been suspended owing to the coronavirus pandemic. However, once things go back to normal, international flight services from the airport will be resumed.

How to reach Bhubaneswar Airport

By Bus

The city of Bhubaneswar has excellent bus facilities that are run by the state government. Called the MO Bus, the services have been rolled out by the Capital Region Urban Transport to connect Cuttack, Bhubaneswar and Puri, in the state of Odisha. The service is known to be one of the most reliable ones in the city that has reduced the transportation challenges that one might have had to face earlier. The MO Bus also has a mobile app with provisions of the map of its routes, ticket booking options and schedules of the buses traversing within the city. The ticket fare is also quite cheap and affordable. You can easily pick a bus route from the MO Bus to reach Biju Patnaik International Airport. These buses are available in AC as well as Non-AC to add to the comfort of the passengers.

By Taxi and Ridesharing apps

The city has an abundance of taxi cab services available. You can easily hail a taxi cab from the city to reach Biju Patnaik International Airport. Besides, it is only 3 km away from the city centre, so travelling is usually not an issue. Depending on the traffic of the city and your location, the travel time might differ, but it will not exceed 15 minutes to reach Biju Patnaik International Airport. Besides, ridesharing apps can also be used within the city premise. You can book cabs on Ola and Uber to reach Bhubaneswar Airport. Normal taxi cabs can also be hailed in the city, but you will need to discuss the fare ahead of the journey. Usually, the cabs in the city-run at fixed prices so it is always safe to ask in advance about the fare and whether it is feasible.

  About Mumbai Airport

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, which was acknowledged as Sahar International Airport, is a prominent international airport that serves the Mumbai metropolis. It is deemed to be the second busiest airport in India, after Delhi, with respect to international passenger traffic and cargo traffic. Recently, the airport crossed London's Gatwick Airport to become the world's busiest airports to operate a single runway at a time. The airport is sprawled across 1,850 acres and takes care of about 950 aircraft movements in a day. The airport has been awarded various titles including, "Best Airport in India and Central Asia". Mumbai airport is also recognised as one of the three airports to implement Airport Collaborative Decision Making in India. A-CDM has been implemented to ensure that the efficiency in terms of takeoffs and landings, along with other necessary facilities.

About Mumbai Airport Terminals

Initially, the Mumbai Airport, also previously known as Sahar International Airport, had both the international and domestic terminals located in the same airport. With the introduction of T2, the terminals were divided into dedicated domestic and international airports, sharing the same runway and airport complex. The domestic airport, also called the Santacruz Airport, served flights to primarily operate domestic airlines and low-cost carriers. Meanwhile, the international airport focussed on international airlines and flights flying out of the city. However, much recently, all the domestic and international flight activities have been shifted to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Terminal 2 has many provisions, including multi-level parking for 5,000 cars, 192 check-in counters, 60 immigration counters for departure, 14 baggage carousels and 76 immigration booths for arrival. There are many numerous lounges, including the GVK lounge, which is a luxury lounge. There are lounges for Business class travellers and first-class passengers as well.

About airport authority

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is owned and served by MIAL (Mumbai International Airport Private Limited). MIAL is a consortium of GVK Industries Ltd., Bidvest, Airports Company South Africa and Airports Authority of India. While the consortium holds 74 per cent ownership, the other 26 per cent is owned by the Airports Authority of India. Ever since the MIAL venture has come into existence, the international airport has witnessed tremendous infrastructural growth. There are tremendous improvements in terms of the aesthetics, passenger convenience, design and refurbishing of the domestic terminals 1A&1B as well as the international terminals 2B & 2C. A new domestic terminal 1C has also been introduced in Terminal 2. MIAL has also undertaken projects to improve the taxiways, aprons and rehabilitation of both the runways.

Facilities at the Mumbai Airport

Child care centres: To make travelling with young ones easier and convenient, special child care rooms have been created at the Mumbai Airport. The room is reserved to cater to the needs of young kids ranging from changing diapers to feeding and many such necessities. It is well-sanitised and is well-maintained to ensure that the mother feels safe. Baby strollers have also been made available at the airport

Smoking zones: Enclosed smoking rooms have been arranged for at the Mumbai Airport. The smoking lounges are facilitated to ensure that the atmosphere of the airport is smoke-free. You can also purchase packets at the airport.

WiFi and Telecommunication Services: WiFi and telecommunication services are also available at the Mumbai Airport. There are free WiFis and Premium WiFis available. This way, you wouldn't have to compromise on your business and professional obligations. You can also find SIM card facilities at the airport for a temporary SIM if you have come for a short period of time.

Medical Centre: The Mumbai Airport is well-equipped with medical services to cater to emergencies. There are ICU ambulances and medical centres catering to medical emergencies 24/7. They are spread out in the airport's vicinity.

Luggage services, cloak room and baggage trolleys: Special storage services have been accommodated where you can keep your luggage and other items. Other luggage facilities include depositing of the baggage at the domestic terminal and receiving them at the international terminal. You can also find baggage trolleys outside the airport as well as in the terminal.

ATMs and Currency exchange: The airport also has provisions for foreign exchange. The airport also has ATMs and other money-related facilities to make travelling more convenient for passengers. The airport has a bevy of foreign exchange counters, ATMs and banks.

Valet parking and other parking facilities: Mumbai airport also has valet parking and other parking services. You can pay a nominal fee and keep your car at the airport's parking zone. You can also avail from their valet parking services.

Play zone, prayer and meditation rooms: If you are travelling with kids, you can actually take them to the play area that has been reserved for kids. They are safe and child-friendly. The airport also has special rooms for multi-faith prayer rooms as well as meditation halls. While you wait for your flight and are nervous, you can use this time to relax and calm your nerves.

Restaurants and cafes: The airport has a slew of restaurants and cafes that you can check out. From classic local establishments such as Shiv Sagar to globally recognised joints such as Burger King, McDonald's and KFC, you can find them at the airport. There are provisions for restaurants serving liquor as well.

Automated buggies: To make commute within the airport convenient, you can also take the buggy services. They will pick you up from the security check and drop you at the boarding area. The services are especially recommended for people with medical conditions and disabilities. The airport also has wheelchairs and other services to commute within the terminal.

Postal services: The Mumbai airport also has provision for postal services. Postal services are located at the exit of both the terminals of Mumbai airport. If you have any last-minute document that needs to be mailed, you wouldn't need to worry about it.

VIP lounge: The airport is also host to many VIP lounges and upscaled restaurants and food establishments. If you are a premium member at any of the airlines with airport lounge as one of the perks, you will be able to benefit the privileges of the VIP lounge as well as the services provided by them.

Top airlines flying from the Mumbai Airport

Mumbai airport is excellently connected to major domestic and international cities. Unsurprisingly, it is known to be the second busiest airport in the country due to its phenomenal ability to accommodate a slew of international and domestic airlines. In fact, the airport witnesses approximately 950 aircraft activities on a daily basis. Mumbai airport connects domestic cities such as Rajkot, Dehradun, Madurai, Lucknow, Kannur, Leh, Ranchi, Jabalpur and more. Thanks to the brilliant connectivity Mumbai has with other cities in the country, it doesn't require any connecting flights too. In fact, the Mumbai airport has a majority of airlines operating from the city. Airlines such as Alliance Air, Air India, Air India Express, GoAir, IndiGo, SpiceJet, TruJet and Vistara operate from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

The city also harbours a plethora of international cities and flights. The international airlines operating from Mumbai airport are quite similar to the ones that operate from the Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. International airlines such as Air Asia, Air Arabia, Air Canada, Air China, Air France, Air Mauritius, Air Seychelles, Air Tanzania, Bangkok Airways, Bhutan Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Delta Air Lines, EgyptAir, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Ethiopian Airways, flydubai, Gulf Air, IranAir, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airways, Korean Air, Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Nepal Airlines, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, RwandAir, Singapore Airlines, SriLankan Airlines, Swiss, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Uzbekistan Airways, operate from Mumbai airport. Thanks to the immaculate connectivity, the city sees a lot of crowd flocking over from various other cities and towns to take international flights.

How to reach the Mumbai Airport

The domestic and the international airport of Mumbai have separate gateways to enter. While the domestic airport, Terminal 1, also known as Santacruz Airport, is located in Santacruz, the international airport, T2, is located in Andheri. To reach Mumbai airport, it is imperative that you know which terminal you need to catch your flight from. Depending on the same, you can travel to the airport.

By Rail

To reach Mumbai airport Terminal 1, the closest railway station is Ville Parle railway station which falls on the Western and Harbour Line of the Mumbai railway network. Meanwhile, to reach the international Mumbai airport, Terminal 2, you should get down at the Andheri station lying on the Mumbai railway network. From here, you can take a rickshaw and reach the city. Mumbai's metro line is perfectly connected with Airport Road and Marol Naka stations while T1 is close to the Western Express Highway station. Both the terminals are very close to the Mumbai Metro. The city is currently expanding the Mumbai metro line further by adding more lines to connect to the airport. An underground network from Cuffe Parade to SEEPZ is in the works which have one stop at the Santacruz airport and the other close to the GVK SkyCity terminal.