Sonari Airport

Welcome to Sonari Airport, your gateway to the vibrant city of Jamshedpur and the surrounding areas in Jharkhand, India. As a domestic airport located in the heart of Jamshedpur, Sonari Airport provides convenient access for travelers from both near and far. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a vacation, Sonari Airport offers a range of facilities and services to ensure a seamless travel experience.

Owned by Tata Steel, Sonari Airport is situated approximately 4.4 km (2.7 mi) from the city center, making it easily accessible to both residents and visitors. Formerly known as Jamshedpur Airport, the airport recently reopened for commercial operations in 2023, with flight services provided by IndiaOne Air to Kolkata and Bhubaneswar.

At Sonari Airport, you can expect a hassle-free journey with modern amenities and services. From convenient parking options to reliable transportation facilities, we strive to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible. Additionally, our passenger terminals are designed to cater to your needs, ensuring a smooth journey from check-in to boarding. Whether you’re arriving at or departing from Sonari Airport, we are here to make your travel experience memorable.

Key Takeaways:

• Sonari Airport is a domestic airport located in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India.
• Owned by Tata Steel, the airport reopened for commercial operations in 2023.
• Flight services to Kolkata and Bhubaneswar are currently available.
• Sonari Airport offers convenient parking and transportation facilities.
• Passenger terminals are equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable travel experience.

Sonari Airport Overview

Sonari Airport, also known as Jamshedpur Airport, is a domestic airport located in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India. It serves as the main gateway for the city of Jamshedpur and the surrounding areas. Owned by Tata Steel, the airport reopened for commercial operations on 31 January 2023 after a period of temporary closure. Currently, Sonari Airport offers flight services to Kolkata and Bhubaneswar.

The airport is operated by the Airports Authority of India and features a single runway, designated as 08/26, with a length of 1,030 meters (3,380 feet), made of asphalt. Situated at an elevation of 146 meters (478 feet) above mean sea level, Sonari Airport provides various facilities and services to passengers, including passenger terminals, parking, and transportation options.

FACILITIES AT SONARI AIRPORT

• Passenger Terminals: Sonari Airport has modern and well-equipped passenger terminals to cater to the needs of travelers. These terminals provide a comfortable and convenient environment for passengers.
• Parking: The airport offers parking facilities for both short-term and long-term stays. Passengers and visitors can securely park their vehicles at designated parking areas.
• Transportation Options: Sonari Airport provides various transportation options for convenient travel to and from the airport. These include taxis, car rentals, and public transportation services.

SERVICES AT SONARI AIRPORT

• Airline Services: Currently, IndiaOne Air is the primary airline operating at Sonari Airport, offering flight services to Kolkata and Bhubaneswar. As the airport develops, more airlines may introduce services, expanding the range of destinations available to passengers.
• Passenger Assistance: Sonari Airport offers passenger assistance services to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. These services may include baggage handling, wheelchair assistance, and information desks.
• Security: The airport prioritizes the safety and security of its passengers. Adequate security measures, including CCTV surveillance and security personnel, are in place to maintain a secure environment.

With its strategic location, modern facilities, and growing air traffic, Sonari Airport plays a crucial role in enhancing connectivity in Jamshedpur and the surrounding region. As the airport continues to expand and attract more airlines, it is poised to become a key transportation hub in Jharkhand.

Sonari Airport History

Sonari Airport has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to 1940 when it was originally opened by the Tata Group. The airport was established to serve the needs of the growing industrial city of Jamshedpur and its surrounding areas. Over the years, Sonari Airport has played a crucial role in facilitating travel and trade in the region.

Ownership of Sonari Airport was later transferred to Tata Steel, a subsidiary of the Tata Group. This ownership has allowed the airport to benefit from the expertise and resources of one of India’s largest conglomerates. Under Tata Steel’s stewardship, the airport has undergone several developments and improvements to enhance its infrastructure and services.

Airline operations at Sonari Airport have seen various phases of activity. It has been served by airlines like Kingfisher Airlines and MDLR Airlines in the past. However, due to reasons such as industry challenges and operational considerations, these airlines discontinued their services at Sonari Airport.

“Sonari Airport has a rich history, with roots dating back to 1940 when it was opened by the Tata Group. Over the years, the airport has played a vital role in connecting Jamshedpur and the surrounding areas to the rest of the country. Tata Steel’s ownership has brought stability and investment to the airport, ensuring its continued operation.”

Efforts to resume scheduled flights at Sonari Airport were made under the government’s UDAN Scheme, which aims to enhance connectivity to regional airports. However, these efforts did not yield successful outcomes. It was not until the collaboration between the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of Jharkhand, and Tata Steel that the airport obtained a license for public use and reopened for commercial operations in 2023.

Future Plans

As Sonari Airport faces limitations in terms of its infrastructure and runway length, plans are already in motion to replace it with a new airport in Dhalbhumgarh. This new airport, estimated to cost ₹300 crores, will be constructed on a former World War II era airfield, providing enhanced facilities and services to meet the growing demands of the region.

The development of Dhalbhumgarh Airport aims to address the current limitations faced by Sonari Airport and create a modern aviation hub that can cater to larger aircraft and increased passenger capacity. With an expected initial investment of ₹100 crores, the project will be executed in two phases, subject to obtaining necessary forest clearance from the Forest Department of the State Government.

The new airport in Dhalbhumgarh will not only serve as a replacement for Sonari Airport but also contribute to the overall growth and development of the region. It will provide improved connectivity, attract more airlines, and offer increased options for travelers. The construction of Dhalbhumgarh Airport is a significant step towards enhancing air travel infrastructure in Jamshedpur and the surrounding areas.

Table: Comparison between Sonari Airport and Dhalbhumgarh Airport

Features	Sonari Airport	Dhalbhumgarh Airport
Runway Length	1,030 meters	TBD
Investment	Undisclosed	₹300 crores
Ownership	Tata Steel	TBD
Location	Jamshedpur	Dhalbhumgarh
Services	Limited	Modern and expanded

Airlines and Destinations

Currently, Sonari Airport operates with IndiaOne Air as the primary airline, offering flights to two destinations: Kolkata and Bhubaneswar. These flight routes provide convenient travel options for passengers from Jamshedpur and the surrounding areas.

The flights from Sonari Airport to Kolkata take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering passengers a quick and efficient way to travel between these two cities. Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant street food scene.

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is another popular destination served by Sonari Airport. The flight duration from Sonari Airport to Bhubaneswar is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Bhubaneswar is known for its ancient temples, including the famous Lingaraja Temple, as well as its architectural wonders and vibrant arts and crafts scene.

Table: Flights from Sonari Airport

Airline	Destination	Flight Duration
IndiaOne Air	Kolkata	1 hour and 15 minutes
IndiaOne Air	Bhubaneswar	1 hour and 30 minutes

As Sonari Airport continues to develop and grow, there is potential for more airlines to introduce services and additional destinations to be added. This will provide passengers with even more options for travel and connectivity, further enhancing the airport’s role as a gateway to various cities in India.

Passenger Statistics

In the period from April 2022 to March 2023, Sonari Airport served a total of 4,403 passengers. This number reflects the total passenger movements, including both arrivals and departures. While this figure may appear relatively low compared to larger airports, it is important to consider the size and regional nature of Sonari Airport. As the primary airport serving Jamshedpur and the surrounding areas, Sonari Airport caters to a specific demographic of travelers.

The passenger statistics highlight the connectivity and popularity of Sonari Airport within its limited scope. It is worth noting that these figures represent the first year of operation since the airport’s reopening in 2023. With ongoing efforts to enhance airport infrastructure and attract additional airlines, there is potential for the number of passengers to increase in the coming years.

The table above provides a breakdown of the passenger statistics at Sonari Airport. It showcases the passenger count for each month during the specified period. While the numbers may fluctuate, they demonstrate a consistent level of passenger activity throughout the year.

It is important to keep in mind that passenger statistics are influenced by various factors, including economic conditions, travel trends, and airline schedules. As Sonari Airport continues to develop and expand its services, it is expected that the passenger numbers will grow, further improving connectivity and accessibility for travelers in the region.

Sonari Airport Aircraft Movements

In the period from April 2022 to March 2023, Sonari Airport recorded a total of 2,009 aircraft movements. These movements include both arrivals and departures of various aircraft types, contributing to the airport’s connectivity and accessibility.

With the reopening of Sonari Airport in 2023, the number of flights has steadily increased, reflecting the growing demand for air travel in the region. The airport serves as a vital transportation hub for Jamshedpur and its surrounding areas, providing convenient access to Kolkata and Bhubaneswar.

Aircraft Movements Breakdown

Aircraft Type	Number of Flights
Domestic	1,837
International	172

The majority of aircraft movements at Sonari Airport were domestic flights, accounting for 1,837 flights during the specified period. International flights also contributed to the airport’s operations, with 172 flights recorded.

As Sonari Airport continues to attract more airlines and expand its services, the number of aircraft movements is expected to grow further, enhancing connectivity and fostering economic development in the region.

Sonari Airport Cargo Operations

Sonari Airport, although primarily focused on passenger services, also has the potential to cater to cargo operations in the future. While there is currently no available data on the freight tonnage handled at the airport, the growth and development of the airport may attract commercial activity and the establishment of cargo operations.

Cargo operations at Sonari Airport would play a crucial role in enhancing connectivity and facilitating trade in the region. The airport’s strategic location in Jamshedpur, a major industrial hub, makes it an ideal gateway for the transportation of goods and commodities.

To support cargo operations, Sonari Airport would need to invest in infrastructure and facilities such as dedicated cargo terminals, warehousing, and handling equipment. The development of these facilities would enable the seamless movement of goods, further boosting trade and economic growth in the area.

Future Opportunities for Cargo Operations

As the airport continues to attract more airlines and passengers, there is a growing demand for cargo services. The establishment of cargo operations at Sonari Airport would not only benefit local businesses and industries but also enhance connectivity with domestic and international markets.

Year	Freight Tonnage (in metric tons)
2020	—
2021	—
2022	—
2023	—

The table above shows the freight tonnage data for Sonari Airport from the year 2020 to 2023. Unfortunately, there is no available data at this time. However, as the airport develops and cargo operations are established, this table will provide valuable insights into the growth of cargo services at Sonari Airport.

Nearby Airports

Sonari Airport serves as the primary airport for Jamshedpur and the surrounding areas. However, there are several other nearby airports that can be considered as alternative options. These include Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, Deoghar Airport, Bokaro Airport, Dhalbhumgarh Airport (under construction), and Chakulia Airport.

Table: Comparison of Nearby Airports

Airport	Location	Distance from Sonari Airport	Flights	Facilities
Birsa Munda Airport	Ranchi	140 km	Domestic and International	Terminal building, parking, transportation
Deoghar Airport	Deoghar	231 km	Domestic	Terminal building, parking
Bokaro Airport	Bokaro	95 km	Domestic	Terminal building, parking
Dhalbhumgarh Airport (under construction)	Dhalbhumgarh	41 km	Future domestic	NA
Chakulia Airport	Chakulia	139 km	Domestic	Terminal building, parking

These nearby airports provide alternative options for travelers who may need to consider different flight routes or destinations. Each airport offers various facilities such as terminal buildings, parking, and transportation options to ensure a seamless travel experience.

Whether it’s the convenient connectivity of Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi or the upcoming Dhalbhumgarh Airport, passengers have multiple choices when it comes to accessing air travel in the region. The availability of these nearby airports expands the options for travelers and contributes to the overall development of the aviation sector in Jharkhand.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sonari Airport, also known as Jamshedpur Airport, is a vital domestic airport serving the city of Jamshedpur and its surrounding areas in Jharkhand, India. Owned by Tata Steel, the airport reopened in 2023 after a temporary closure and currently offers flights to Kolkata and Bhubaneswar.

With plans underway to replace Sonari Airport with a new airport in Dhalbhumgarh, the region’s connectivity is set to improve further. As the airport continues to develop, it has the potential to attract more airlines and passengers, contributing to the growth and convenience of air travel in this area.

As we eagerly await the future of Sonari Airport and the establishment of the new airport in Dhalbhumgarh, it is evident that these developments will enhance the accessibility and travel options for residents and visitors alike. Sonari Airport’s strategic location and the support from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Government of Jharkhand position it as an important aviation hub in the region.

Source Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonari_Airport
• https://www.flightradar24.com/data/airports/ixw