Imphal International Airport is located about 8 km south of Imphal city center, making it easily accessible by road. Taxis and app-based cabs are the most convenient option and are readily available from major areas such as Paona Bazaar, Thangal Bazaar, and government offices; the journey usually takes 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic. Auto-rickshaws and shared taxis also operate on key routes and are a budget-friendly choice for short distances. City buses and private buses connect various parts of Imphal to nearby junctions, from where local transport can be taken to the airport. Travelers using private vehicles can reach the airport via well-maintained city roads and NH routes, with parking facilities available near the terminal for hassle-free access.
Bir Tikendrajit International Airport Imphal (IMF)
🛬 About Bir Tikendrajit International Airport Imphal
Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, commonly known as Imphal Airport, is the primary airport serving Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, and the surrounding northeastern region of India. Located about 8 km south of Imphal city center, the airport is operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). It is identified by the IATA code IMF and ICAO code VEIM.
Imphal Airport functions as both a domestic and international airport, though international operations are limited and subject to approvals and schedules. The airport connects Manipur with major Indian cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bengaluru, and Agartala, playing a vital role in regional connectivity, tourism, and economic development in the Northeast. It features a modern passenger terminal equipped with check-in counters, security screening, baggage handling systems, waiting lounges, food outlets, and essential passenger amenities. Surrounded by scenic hills and valleys, Imphal Airport is a crucial aviation hub supporting civilian travel, government movement, and socio-economic growth in Manipur.
🧭 How to Reach
📍 Airport Details
Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, popularly known as Imphal Airport, is the main aviation gateway to Manipur and a key airport in Northeast India. Located about 8 km south of Imphal city, the airport is operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). It is identified by IATA code IMF and ICAO code VEIM.
The airport handles primarily domestic flights, with limited international operations planned or operated based on demand and approvals. It features a modern integrated passenger terminal equipped with check-in counters, security screening systems, baggage handling facilities, waiting lounges, food outlets, and passenger amenities. The airport has a single asphalt runway suitable for narrow-body aircraft such as Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.
Serving as a crucial link between Manipur and major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bengaluru, Imphal Airport plays an important role in regional connectivity, tourism, government travel, and economic development in the northeastern region of India.
🏨 Terminal Information
Bir Tikendrajit International Airport operates with a single integrated passenger terminal that handles all domestic flights and limited international operations when scheduled. The terminal is modern and well organized, designed to ensure smooth passenger movement. It includes dedicated check-in counters, CISF security screening, and efficient baggage handling systems.
Inside the terminal, passengers can access comfortable waiting lounges, basic food and beverage outlets, ATMs, clean restrooms, and flight information display screens (FIDS). The arrival area features clearly marked baggage claim belts and easy access to prepaid taxis and local transport services outside the terminal. Overall, the terminal offers a convenient and efficient travel experience for passengers flying to and from Imphal.
✨ Facilities
Bir Tikendrajit International Airport provides essential passenger facilities for a smooth and comfortable travel experience. The terminal offers comfortable waiting lounges, air-conditioned seating, and flight information display systems (FIDS) for real-time updates. Travelers can access food and beverage counters, drinking water facilities, and clean restrooms throughout the terminal. Additional services include ATMs, medical/first-aid assistance, and wheelchair & special assistance for elderly and differently-abled passengers. The airport also provides baggage trolleys, lost & found services, and CISF security. For last-mile connectivity, prepaid taxis and local transport services are available outside the terminal, along with short-term parking facilities for private vehicles.
🎒 Things to Do
While at Imphal Airport, passengers can relax in the comfortable waiting lounges and enjoy the calm atmosphere before boarding. Grab light snacks and refreshments from the food counters and stay updated using flight information displays. The airport’s scenic setting offers pleasant views of surrounding hills, making aircraft spotting and photography enjoyable during daylight hours. With free Wi-Fi (where available), travelers can catch up on messages or plan their onward journey. The compact terminal layout also makes it easy to rest, read, and unwind during short waits or layovers.
📸 Places to Visit
Kangla Fort – Historic citadel and cultural heart of Manipur, reflecting royal heritage and traditions.
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Loktak Lake – The largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, famous for floating phumdis and scenic views.
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Shree Govindajee Temple – Prominent Vaishnavite temple known for its serene architecture and rituals.
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Manipur State Museum – Insightful museum showcasing Manipur’s history, culture, textiles, and tribal heritage.
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Ima Keithel (Mother’s Market) – Iconic all-women market offering local produce, crafts, and a vibrant cultural experience.
❓ FAQs
Q1. What is the IATA code of Imphal Airport?
The IATA code is IMF.
Q2. How far is the airport from Imphal city center?
The airport is located about 8 km south of Imphal city center.
Q3. Is Imphal Airport an international airport?
It is designated as an international airport, but currently it mainly handles domestic flights with limited international operations depending on approvals and schedules.
Q4. How many terminals does Imphal Airport have?
Imphal Airport has one integrated passenger terminal.
Q5. Which airlines operate from Imphal Airport?
Major domestic airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and other regional carriers operate flights to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bengaluru.
Q6. What facilities are available at the airport?
Passengers can access waiting lounges, food and beverage counters, ATMs, clean restrooms, medical assistance, wheelchair support, and flight information displays.
Q7. Are taxi and local transport services available from the airport?
Yes, prepaid taxis, shared taxis, and local transport services are available outside the terminal.
Q8. Is parking available at Imphal Airport?
Yes, the airport offers short-term parking facilities for private vehicles.
Q9. Does the airport provide free Wi-Fi?
Limited free Wi-Fi may be available within the terminal, subject to network availability.
Q10. Why is Imphal Airport important for Manipur?
It serves as a critical air link connecting Manipur with the rest of India, supporting tourism, trade, government travel, and regional development in Northeast India.