| Name : KOLKATA | | Location : KOLKATA, INDIA | | International : Yes | | Runways : 2 | | Runway length : 3,627 / 2,399 | | Number of Airlines : 20 | | Operator : Airports Authority of India | | Aircraft Movements, 05-06 : 51,560 +21.7 | | Passenger Traffic, 05-06 : 4,406,763 +26.1 | | Cargo Traffic, 05-06 : 74,499 +7 | Description : The state of West Bengal has long been the centre for socialist and Marxist politics in India. A reputation for industrial unrest had resulted in its economic growth falling behind that of India’s leading states. However, despite a Marxist state government, the introduction of pragmatic policies that are conducive to domestic and foreign investment has resulted in a resurgence of the Kolkata’s fortunes.
The city’s airport is therefore experiencing strong growth, particularly in domestic traffic which is up over 50% in the first half of 2006/07. International traffic is less buoyant, nevertheless Lufthansa resumed services in late 2006. Kolkata is also located within a 3-4 flight time of Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, which could make it a potential destination for low cost airlines. Although both Jetstar and Tiger Airways tried operate to the city and subsequently withdrew due to poor loads.
As one of India’s key metro cities, the modernisation of Kolkata Airport is a key priority for the central government, however the model which should be employed is currently under debate. The left wing parties in the ruling coalition are insistent that responsibility for the upgrade of the airport should remain with Airports Authority of India.
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