Rajkot Airport, Rajkot

Rajkot Airport, officially known as the Gandhigram Civil Aerodrome, is named after its location in the Gandhigram district of Rajkot, which honors Mahatma Gandhi. The airport has retained its original designation throughout its history. Established in the mid-20th century to serve the former princely state, the facility functioned as the city's primary aviation gateway for decades and did not replace a prior facility. In September 2023, all scheduled commercial operations were transitioned from this site to the newly inaugurated Rajkot International Airport in Hirasar. During its final full operational year in 2022–2023, the airport handled over 615,000 passengers, ranking it as the 47th busiest airport in India, though it does not hold a significant global ranking. Key milestones in its history include a 2021 terminal expansion to increase peak-hour capacity and the 2023 launch of the replacement greenfield facility, which features a 3,040-meter runway and a terminal building that earned a four-star GRIHA rating for its sustainable, energy-efficient design. As a vital hub for the Saurashtra region, the airport supports Rajkot’s role as a major industrial center for automobile parts, jewelry, and casting units. It serves as a critical link for business travelers and a gateway for pilgrims and tourists heading to heritage sites such as Dwarka and Somnath, reinforcing the city's status as a regional economic engine.

Airport Information

Rajkot Airport Address