Hyderabad Airport is an international and public utility airport situated in Hyderabad, which is one of the largest airports in terms of size. Due to such a sprawling area and a vast number of airlines serving there, passengers often face issues commuting within the airport and boarding their flight. The article aims to enhance the traveller experience for those commuting through the Hyderabad Airport by providing in-depth information about the airport services, terminals, and procedures, as well as answering the passengers' most commonly asked questions.
Read ahead to learn about the Hyderabad Airport comprehensively and know how to make your commute hassle-free.
Introduction to Hyderabad Airport (HYD)
Hyderabad Airport, officially called the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, is a commercial airport that serves the Hyderabad Metropolitan Region. It is situated in Shamshabad (Hyderabad) and was opened on March 23, 2008. The airport is owned and operated by the GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL). It is the largest airport in India in terms of area and the first airport to launch domestic e-boarding. Moreover, it is the first greenfield airport in India under a private-public partnership model. The airport is a hub for multiple airlines, including Alliance Air, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Star Air, and many more.
- Hyderabad Airport Official Name - Rajiv Gandhi International Airport
- Hyderabad Airport Official Address - Shamshabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 500409, India
- Hyderabad Airport IATA Code - HYD
- Hyderabad Airport ICAO Code - VOHS
- Hyderabad Airport Phone Number - +91 40 6654 6370
- Hyderabad Airport Support Email Address - rgia.customersupport@gmrgroup.in
Hyderabad Airport Terminal Overview
Hyderabad Airport has a single, integrated passenger terminal that manages the domestic and international flight movements. The terminal is divided into various levels, featuring multiple arrival and departure gates, enabling the airport to manage the passenger volume efficiently. With 10 baggage claim belts, 44 passenger boarding aero bridges, a domestic-to-domestic (D-D) transfer area, 20 immigration counters, 87 check-in desks, and 14 self-check-in kiosks, Hyderabad Airport effortlessly handles millions of passengers annually.
See also: Delhi Airport Guide 2025
Airlines operating from the Hyderabad Airport Terminal
There are a myriad of airlines that fly to/from the Hyderabad Airport, providing flight connectivity to numerous domestic and international destinations. Here's a list of airlines that serve at the airport:
- Air Arabia
- Air Asia
- Air India
- Alliance Air
- British Airways
- Cathay Pacific
- Emirates
- Etihad Airways
- FlyDubai
- Flynas
- GoAir
- Gulf Air
- IndiGo
- Jazeera Airways
- Malaysian Airlines
- Oman Air
- Qatar Airways
- Saudi Arabian Airlines
- Silk Air
- SpiceJet
- SriLankan Airlines
- Thai Airways
- Tiger Air
- Trujet
Transportation to and from Hyderabad Airport
Not only within the airport, but the Hyderabad Airport also ensures that passengers can effortlessly commute from the airport to the city. This is why they offer multiple transportation options on the airport grounds to make sure that customers can select the vehicle that suits their budget and choice. The following are the varied transportation mediums the airport offers:
- Metro: You can commute to the Hyderabad Airport using the Hyderabad Airport Express Metro or Corridor IV. The metro rail system offers direct connectivity to the airport, encompassing 24 stations, connecting major city points. The fare ranges from Rs. 12 to Rs. 75 based on the travel distance.
- Taxi & Cab Services: The Hyderabad Airport offers various vehicle options and car rental services for road commuters. These transportation options include radio taxis, cab services, prepaid taxis, car rental services, and premium car facilities. Please choose the medium that best suits your budget.
- Airport Shuttle & Buses: Buses and shuttle services are another budget-friendly transportation option available at the airport. The "Pushpak – Airport Liner," operated by the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation, provides AC electric buses from/to the airport to various parts of the city.
See also: Mumbai Airport Guide 2025
Baggage Services & Lost and Found at Hyderabad Airport
- Baggage Services: Baggage Claim Process: After exiting the aircraft, visit the baggage claim area and wait for your baggage to arrive. Check the baggage tag and collect your luggage.
- Reporting Damaged Baggage: If you receive damaged luggage, visit the airline's baggage services counter at the airport for repair services, replacement, or compensation.
- Left Luggage & Storage Services: For short-term and long-term needs, you can keep your bags at the left luggage counter and retrieve them by presenting your receipt and valid ID when required.
- Oversized & Special Baggage Handling: If travelling with large items, such as sports equipment and medical instruments, drop off your oversized baggage at designated counters for safe handling.
- Baggage Assistance & Porter Services: If you need help with heavy luggage, you can request porter services at the airport. A nominal fee will apply based on the number of bags and service duration.
- Lost and Found Service: Lost Baggage: File a lost and found report or visit the "Lost & Found Counter" at the airport if you misplaced your luggage. Your baggage can be delivered to your address or made available for pickup.
- Delayed Baggage: If your luggage is damaged or delayed, reach the respective airline's baggage services counter at the airport for assistance and appropriate compensation.
See also: Varanasi Airport Guide 2025
Hyderabad Airport Check-in and Security Procedures
- Hyderabad Airport Check-In: The airport offers multiple check-in options, including web check-in, so that passengers can check in for their flight using the way that suits them best. Here are the varied methods for checking in:
- Web Check-In: You can check in online through the respective airline's web check-in facility, which is available on their website or application, and download your e-boarding passes.
- Self-Service Kiosks: In addition to the web check-in facility, the airport offers kiosk service, which allows passengers to check in independently, print boarding passes, and tag their baggage.
- Counter Check-In: Individuals who prefer face-to-face assistance can visit the respective airline's check-in counter at the Hyderabad Airport to get their boarding passes.
- Baggage Drop-Off: You need to submit your checked luggage at the designated counters after completing the check-in and before proceeding to security clearance.
- Hyderabad Airport Security Clearance: Once you complete the check-in, the next step is to go through the security and immigration clearance. Here's what you need to do:
- Security Screening: Passengers are required to place their electronic devices, belts, and jackets in trays for X-ray screening.
- Body Scanner: After the security screening, the customers need to walk through the security scanner and follow the officer's instructions for additional screening.
- Immigration Check: The next step is to present your passport, visa, and boarding pass at immigration counters.
- Customs Declaration: Once you have passed the immigration check, you must declare high-value items, foreign currency, or restricted goods at customs checkpoints.
See also: Lucknow Airport Guide 2025
Hyderabad Airport Facilities and Amenities
Hyderabad Airport provides a wide variety of services and facilities, making it easier for customers to commute within the airport and board their flights. The airport offers various amenities, from exceptional culinary service to a premium shopping experience and free internet connectivity to multiple banks/ATMs. Here are some of its services and facilities listed:
- Lounges: The Hyderabad Airport offers Encalm lounge access, located at both the Domestic Departure and International Departure areas on the airside. With a contemporary, stylish and serene ambience, the lounge offers a comfortable space and services, such as food and beverages, charging plugs, Wi-Fi, shower facilities, international newspapers and magazines, international TV channels, Head and shoulder massage and Foot Reflexology.
- Free Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: The airport offers complimentary Wi-Fi access to all passengers for the first 45 minutes. This service can be utilised via mobile phones, tablets, or laptops. International travellers need to visit the Wi-Fi kiosk near the information desk on 23 B and scan their passports. A coupon with the OTP will be issued, through which passengers can access the Wi-Fi for free for up to 4 hours.
- Shopping and Duty-Free Stores: The airport has numerous shops and national and international brand outlets, allowing you to shop while you wait for your flight. These shops are situated at different levels across the airport, so you must visit the airport's website for precise locations.
- Dedicated Areas: Hyderabad Airport understands that every traveller has different preferences, practices, and habits. To cater to them accurately, the airport offers dedicated spaces, such as baby care rooms, prayer rooms, smoking zones, valet parking, and more. These dedicated spaces and services help passengers make their travel more manageable.
- Dining Options: The airport offers various cafes, restaurants, and food outlets that offer a wide variety of meal options. Please note that these food outlets are spread across the entire terminal at different levels and areas. The restaurants and cafes offer palatable meals at a nominal rate, ensuring you can enjoy delicious food without worrying about your pocket.
- Medical Assistance: Hyderabad Airport offers a dedicated medical centre that operates 24/7 and features qualified doctors, paramedics, first aid stations, and ambulance services. The centre also provides various assistance, such as wheelchairs and mobility support, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and emergency response services.
See also: Coimbatore Airport Guide 2025
Special Services for International Travellers at Hyderabad Airport
Travelling internationally is quite a demanding task because you are flying across different nations. Hyderabad Airport simplifies international flight boarding and ensures that passengers do not have issues at the airport by providing special services and facilities. Please note that these amenities may vary based on airline selection, membership tier, and other factors. Below are some special services the airport offers its international travellers:
- Visa on Arrival: Hyderabad Airport offers a visa-on-arrival to passengers who are travelling internationally from specific nations. To qualify, passengers must have a six-month valid passport and meet other eligibility criteria.
- Currency Exchange: If you run short on cash, there is no need to worry. Hyderabad Airport offers various financial services at its terminal, including currency exchange counters, which can help you arrange an adequate amount of cash and fulfil your currency requirements.
- Meet and Greet Services: A personalised Welcome & Assist service offered by Encalm Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., which provides a range of services to ensure a seamless journey through the airport. These services include escorting to the boarding gate, providing check-in assistance, having a dedicated professional team at the airport, and handling luggage.
- Priority Services: International travellers, especially those with Premium Cabin Class tickets, receive various priority services that make their journey through the airport more convenient. These priority services include priority airport check-in, priority security clearance, and more.
- Exclusive Lounge Access: The airport offers international travellers exclusive lounge access, allowing them to wait and relax while waiting for their flight or in case of unplanned flight delays or cancellations. The lounge is equipped with various facilities, including dedicated rooms, magazines, AC centralised spaces, and so on.
See also: Bangalore Airport Guide 2025
Tips for a Smooth Experience at Hyderabad Airport
Though Hyderabad Airport offers various services and facilities, enabling you to commute across the airport and board your flight conveniently. However, there are specific pointers that you must be aware of when travelling via the Hyderabad Airport so that you avoid all the potential setbacks. Please go through the tips below:
- Arrive at the Hyderabad Airport at least two hours before the scheduled departure of your domestic flight and three hours before the international flight departure.
- You must check in for your flight online so that you do not have to stand in the long queues at the check-in counter and can board your flight without hassle.
- Carry all the necessary documents and arrive at the airport on time so you have adequate time and paperwork to complete the airport procedures conveniently.
- Download the Hyderabad Airport App (HOI App) beforehand to acquire real-time flight information and airport updates, making your travel more manageable.
- Do not forget to connect your device to the airport's free Wi-Fi, especially during layovers, so you can continue your online work or browse the airport website.
- Pack your bags smartly so that they stay within the mentioned weight and size limitations. For assistance, you can also approach the baggage transfer counter.
Future Expansion Plans for Hyderabad Airport
Hyderabad Airport aims to enhance the travellers' experience even more with its future expansion plans, enabling it to cater to larger masses and provide flight connectivity to more destinations. Here's a detailed layout of its future goals:
- New Construction: Hyderabad Airport is planning to expand its area and add more dedicated services and sections to accommodate more passengers and flights, and ensure their effortless handling. The airport reveals that it is aiming to construct a second terminal and an additional runway, and the terminal will be broadened with additional security lanes, check-in counters, and other amenities.
- International Connectivity: In addition to increasing the area and facilities for passengers and airlines, the airport is also planning to expand its connectivity across the globe by offering direct flights to multiple international destinations. Direct flights will be introduced to key cities globally and with major U.S. airlines.
- Better Commuting Options: Hyderabad Airport is also planning to construct new cross taxiways on the east and west of the terminals, connecting to the approach road's north and south runways. The approach road tunnel will allow free flow of traffic entering the airport from the ORR/Bangalore Highway Junction and the Srisailam Highway.
Conclusion
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, AKA the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, is Hyderabad's primary international airport. It handles immense passenger traffic flying to various domestic and international destinations. As mentioned in the passage above, the airport provides multiple services and facilities to make flight travel and customer commuting seamless. Moreover, the article discusses the airport explicitly and provides some tips to help make your flight journey more manageable and allow you to navigate the airport effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which terminal does IndiGo use at Hyderabad Airport?
Ans. Hyderabad Airport has a single integrated terminal through which it manages the passenger flights of all airlines, including IndiGo.
Q2. Is there a metro connection to Hyderabad Airport?
Ans. Yes, the Hyderabad Airport Express Metro or Corridor IV offers metro connectivity to the Hyderabad Airport. It encompasses 24 stations, ensuring seamless connectivity to the airport from different locations.
Q3. Can I sleep at Hyderabad Airport overnight?
Ans. Yes, you can sleep at Hyderabad Airport overnight as it offers multiple relaxation areas, lounges, and sleeping pods. The airport shares proximity with numerous hotels, so you can also stay in a nearby hotel.
Q4. Are there food options for vegetarians at Hyderabad Airport?
Ans. Yes, there are multiple vegetarian food options at the Hyderabad Airport. The airport features numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering various food options, including vegetarian meals.
Q5. How early should I arrive at Hyderabad Airport for an international flight?
Ans. You must arrive at the Hyderabad Airport at least two to three hours in advance of your scheduled international flight departure. This provides you with ample time to complete the airport procedures.
Q6. What are the different terminals at Hyderabad Airport, and how do I know where to go?
Ans. Hyderabad Airport features a single passenger terminal. You can seek assistance from the ground staff or visit the airport's website to learn how to commute within the airport.
Q7. Which airlines operate from Hyderabad Airport Terminal?
Ans. Multiple airlines fly to/from the Hyderabad Airport terminal. Some of the prominent ones are Emirates, Air India, IndiGo, Qatar Airways, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific.
Q8. How can I travel between terminals at Hyderabad Airport?
Ans. Hyderabad Airport has a single and integrated main terminal that facilitates travel for both domestic and international passengers for arrivals and departures.
Q9. Is there free Wi-Fi available at Hyderabad Airport?
Ans. Yes, Hyderabad Airport provides all passengers with complimentary Wi-Fi, connecting to the "Tata DOCOMO" Wi-Fi or service provider. Please note that the free Wi-Fi is available for the first 45 minutes only.
Q10. Where can I find lounges at Hyderabad Airport, and how can I access them?
Ans. Hyderabad Airport comprises Encalm Lounges that can be accessed by both domestic and international travellers using a Priority Pass, the airline's loyalty program membership, or paying for the pass.
Q11. Are there hotels near Hyderabad Airport for layovers or overnight stays?
Ans. Yes, there are numerous hotels (budget-friendly as well as five-star accommodations) near Hyderabad Airport that can be accessed for layovers as well as overnight stays.
Q12. How early should I reach Hyderabad Airport for a domestic flight?
Ans. For domestic flights, passengers must reach the Hyderabad Airport at least two hours prior to the scheduled departure to get sufficient time to complete the airport procedures, such as check-in and security clearance.
Q13. What are the transportation options from Hyderabad Airport to the city?
Ans. Hyderabad Airport offers varied transportation options, such as ride-sharing services, buses, metro rail, and taxis, ensuring passengers can effortlessly commute to the city from the airport.
Q14. Can I book a prepaid taxi at Hyderabad Airport?
Ans. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport offers multiple commuting options, including prepaid taxis.
Q15. Does Hyderabad Airport offer facilities for disabled or elderly passengers?
Ans. Hyderabad Airport offers multiple facilities for the aged, disabled, and medically vulnerable individuals. These services include wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, a dedicated waiting area, and more.
Q16. Where is the lost and found counter at Hyderabad Airport?
Ans. The lost and found counter is available in the arrivals hall at Hyderabad Airport.
Q17. Is Hyderabad Airport open 24 hours a day for travellers?
Ans. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport or Hyderabad Airport operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, the services of some airlines may not be available during certain hours.
Q18. Are there duty-free shops at Hyderabad Airport for international travellers?
Ans. Yes, Hyderabad Airport offers multiple duty-free shops for international as well as domestic travellers at the arrival and departure areas.
Q19. How do I check flight status for departures from Hyderabad Airport?
Ans. You need to visit the official website of Hyderabad Airport (www.hyderabad.aero) and select the "Flight Information" tab. Click the "Departures" section and enter your "Flight Number" or "City/IATA Code" to view the live flight status.
Q20. Can I carry food inside the Hyderabad Airport or on the plane?
Ans. Yes, Hyderabad Airport does allow customers to bring their own food inside the airport. However, whether you can get your own food inside the plane depends on the selected airline's guidelines.