{"id":10702,"date":"2026-10-15T02:44:36","date_gmt":"2026-10-15T02:44:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/irisholidays.com\/keralatourism\/?p=10702"},"modified":"2026-10-15T02:44:36","modified_gmt":"2026-10-15T02:44:36","slug":"airports-in-kerala","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/irisholidays.com\/keralatourism\/airports-in-kerala\/","title":{"rendered":"Airports in Kerala with Codes-Which Airport Is Best for Your Kerala Trip?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Kerala has four operational international airports: Cochin International Airport (COK), Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), Calicut International Airport (CCJ), and Kannur International Airport (CNN).<\/strong> All four airports handle domestic and international flights, with routes connecting Kerala to major Indian cities and selected international destinations, particularly in the Middle East.<\/p>\n

Cochin Airport is generally the best choice for Munnar, Alleppey and central Kerala, while Trivandrum Airport is more convenient for Kovalam and Varkala. Calicut Airport serves Kozhikode, Malappuram and much of Wayanad, whereas Kannur Airport is useful for exploring northern Kerala.<\/p>\n

Choosing the right airport can save several hours of road travel. This guide compares Kerala’s four airports, their locations, airport codes, nearby tourist destinations and onward transport options to help you plan your trip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

How Many Airports Are There in Kerala?<\/h2>\n

Kerala has four international airports: Cochin, Trivandrum, Calicut and Kannur which are operational. All four serve domestic and international passengers, providing convenient access to different regions of the state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Name of the Airport in Kerala<\/th>\nCode<\/th>\nCity<\/th>\nTourist Places near Airport<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Cochin International Airport<\/td>\nCOK<\/td>\nKochi, Ernakulam<\/td>\nMunnar, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Fort Kochi, Athirappilly<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Trivandrum International Airport<\/td>\nTRV<\/td>\nThiruvananthapuram<\/td>\nKovalam, Varkala, Poovar, Ponmudi, Padmanabhaswamy Temple<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Calicut International Airport<\/td>\nCCJ<\/td>\nKozhikode, Malappuram<\/td>\nWayanad, Kozhikode Beach, Kappad Beach, Beypore, Nilambur<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Kannur International Airport<\/td>\nCNN<\/td>\nKannur, Malabar region<\/td>\nKannur Beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, Bekal Fort, Thalassery, Coorg<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

The proposed Sabarimala Greenfield Airport in Kottayam district is intended to improve access to the Sabarimala pilgrimage region. The project is still under development, and no confirmed opening date has been announced.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"airports-in-kerala\"
There are 4 airports in Kerala<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Domestic Airports and Airstrips in Kerala<\/h2>\n

Kerala has many smaller military airstrips along with its four major international airports, but they do not handle commercial flights. Kollam had an operational airport during the Travancore Kingdom era, though it is now closed. The Sathram Airstrip located in Idukki is strictly for NCC aviation training, while INS Garuda in Kochi is a naval airbase.<\/p>\n

The local government has proposed another airport near Thiruvambady in Kozhikode, but the project is still in nascent stages. These airfields do not currently offer scheduled commercial passenger services<\/p>\n

International Airports in Kerala: A Full Breakdown<\/h2>\n

There are four main international airports in Kerala. Each airport has its own flight network and covers different corners of the state. Be sure to get the information about each airport before you book your ticket.<\/p>\n

1. Cochin International Airport (COK)<\/h3>\n

Cochin International Airport (COK) is one of the busiest airports in Kerala. It is located about 30 kms from the main city of Kochi. In 2015, Cochin became the world’s first fully solar-powered airport. Spread across a very large area, the airport has three separate terminals for domestic, international, and executive flights. There is a public-private partnership that funds its operation and continuous development. The airport connects directly to major Indian cities and to international destinations in Southeast Asia and the Gulf.<\/p>\n

\"cochin-international-airport\"
Kochi Airport has a traditional Kerala-style roofing, bustling with travelers, aircraft on the tarmac, and lush greenery surrounding the runway<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

ALSO SEE-How To Book Taxis From Cochin Airport (COK)<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Feature<\/th>\nDetails<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Airport Name<\/td>\nCochin International Airport<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Code<\/strong><\/td>\nCOK<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Location<\/td>\nNedumbassery, approximately 30 km from Kochi city<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Highlight<\/td>\nWorld’s first fully solar-powered airport<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Domestic Terminal<\/td>\nTerminal 1<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
International Terminal<\/td>\nTerminal 3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
International Connectivity<\/td>\nFlights to destinations in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and other international markets, subject to airline schedules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Facilities<\/td>\nLounges, duty-free shopping, ATMs, currency exchange, restaurants and luggage storage<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nearest Railway Stations<\/td>\nAngamaly and Aluva<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nearest Metro Station<\/td>\nAluva Metro Station, accessible by feeder bus<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Taxis<\/td>\nPrepaid taxi counters at domestic and international terminals<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Public Transport<\/td>\nKSRTC buses and Kochi Metro feeder buses<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ideal Tourist Destinations<\/td>\nMunnar, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Fort Kochi, Athirappilly and Thekkady<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Best For<\/td>\nCentral Kerala tours, Munnar-Thekkady-Alleppey itineraries and Kochi city breaks<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Official Website<\/td>\nwww.cial.aero<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

2. Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)<\/h3>\n

Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is the oldest airport in Kerala, which was opened back in 1932. TRV is located just 3.7 km from the capital city and offers extremely easy access to major attractions, including Kovalam Beach and the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The airport is best for those visiting southern Kerala. Besides connecting major Indian cities, this airport also has direct flights to international destinations like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Colombo, and the Gulf.<\/p>\n

\"thiruvananthapuram-international-airport\"
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is a major gateway to South Kerala, offering convenient access to popular tourist destinations such as Kovalam, Poovar, Varkala, and the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Feature<\/th>\nDetails<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Airport Name<\/td>\nTrivandrum International Airport (Thiruvananthapuram International Airport)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Code<\/strong><\/td>\nTRV<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Location<\/td>\nChackai and Shanghumugham, approximately 3.7 km from Thiruvananthapuram city centre<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Highlight<\/td>\nKerala’s oldest airport, established in 1932, and a major gateway to southern Kerala<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Domestic Terminal<\/td>\nTerminal 1 (T1)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
International Terminal<\/td>\nTerminal 2 (T2)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
International Connectivity<\/td>\nFlights to destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, subject to airline schedules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Facilities<\/td>\nPassenger lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, retail outlets, free Wi-Fi, baggage services, and wheelchair assistance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nearest Railway Stations<\/td>\nThiruvananthapuram Central and Thiruvananthapuram North (Kochuveli)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nearest Metro Station<\/td>\nNo operational metro service in Thiruvananthapuram<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Taxis<\/td>\nPrepaid taxi counters and app-based cab pickup points at both terminals<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Public Transport<\/td>\nKSRTC buses, Air-Rail EV buses connecting the airport with the railway station and city centre, and auto-rickshaws<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ideal Tourist Destinations<\/td>\nKovalam, Varkala, Poovar, Ponmudi, Shanghumugham Beach, Padmanabhaswamy Temple and Kanyakumari<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Best For<\/td>\nSouthern Kerala beach holidays, Kovalam-Varkala itineraries, Ayurveda retreats, Thiruvananthapuram city tours and Kanyakumari trips<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Official Website<\/td>\nthiruvananthapuram.adaniairports.com<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

3. Calicut International Airport (CCJ)<\/h3>\n

Calicut International Airport (CCJ) is also known as Karipur Airport. It began domestic flight services in 1988 and became an international airport in 2006. It is located 28 km from Kozhikode, making it a perfect choice for those traveling to Wayanad or the surrounding Malappuram district. Internationally, CCJ connects to many destinations in the Middle East \u2014 including direct flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Doha, and Muscat.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n
\"calicut-international-airport\"
Calicut International Airport – A major gateway to North Kerala, offering convenient access to popular tourist destinations such as Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, and the scenic beaches and hill stations of the Malabar region.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Feature<\/th>\nDetails<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Airport Name<\/td>\nCalicut International Airport (Karipur Airport)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Code<\/strong><\/td>\nCCJ<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Location<\/td>\nKaripur, Malappuram district, approximately 28 km from Kozhikode Railway Station<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Highlight<\/td>\nAn important international gateway to northern Kerala, particularly for travellers from Gulf countries<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Domestic Terminal<\/td>\nDomestic departures and arrivals are handled at designated areas of the airport’s passenger terminal<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
International Terminal<\/td>\nDedicated international check-in, arrivals, immigration and customs facilities<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
International Connectivity<\/td>\nFlights to Middle Eastern destinations including Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Muscat and other international destinations, subject to airline schedules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Facilities<\/td>\nBusiness lounge, restaurants, currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, baggage wrapping, baby care rooms, charging points and medical assistance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nearest Railway Stations<\/td>\nFeroke and Parappanangadi; Kozhikode Railway Station is a major rail connection<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nearest Metro Station<\/td>\nNo operational metro service in Kozhikode or Malappuram<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Taxis<\/td>\nAirport taxis and pre-arranged private cabs for Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad and nearby destinations<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Public Transport<\/td>\nKSRTC buses and local transport connections to nearby towns; check current services and timings before travelling<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ideal Tourist Destinations<\/td>\nWayanad, Kozhikode Beach, Kappad Beach, Beypore, Nilambur, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary and Thusharagiri Waterfalls<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Best For<\/td>\nWayanad hill station holidays, Kozhikode city tours, Malappuram visits, northern Kerala cultural experiences and Malabar coastal trips<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Official Website<\/td>\nwww.aai.aero\/en\/airports\/calicut<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

4. Kannur International Airport (CNN)<\/h3>\n

Kannur International Airport (CNN) is the youngest airport in Kerala, opened in December 2018 as a greenfield project. It is located near Mattannur, which is roughly 27 kms from Kannur city. This airport was built to serve northern Malabar and the neighboring enclave of Mah\u00e9 in Puducherry. For domestic tourists, this airport is closest to places like Bekal Fort, northern beaches, and traditional Theyyam spots, all within just a short drive away.<\/p>\n

\"kannur-international-airport\"
Kannur International Airport is a key gateway to North Kerala, offering convenient access to popular tourist destinations such as Kannur, Wayanad, Bekal, and the scenic beaches, historic forts, and cultural attractions of the Malabar region.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Feature<\/th>\nDetails<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Airport Name<\/td>\nKannur International Airport<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Code<\/td>\nCNN<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Location<\/td>\nMattannur, Kannur district, approximately 26-28 km from Kannur city<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Highlight<\/td>\nKerala’s fourth international airport, inaugurated in December 2018, serving northern Kerala and the Malabar region<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Domestic Terminal<\/td>\nIntegrated passenger terminal handling domestic arrivals and departures<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
International Terminal<\/td>\nSame integrated terminal building, with dedicated international check-in, immigration and customs facilities<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
International Connectivity<\/td>\nFlights to Middle Eastern destinations including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Doha, Muscat and other Gulf cities, subject to current airline schedules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Facilities<\/td>\nPassenger lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, retail outlets, currency exchange, self-check-in counters, wheelchair assistance and a day hotel<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nearest Railway Stations<\/td>\nKannur and Thalassery Railway Stations, approximately 26 km away<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nearest Metro Station<\/td>\nNo operational metro service in Kannur<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Airport Taxis<\/td>\nAirport taxis and pre-booked private cabs for Kannur, Thalassery, Bekal, Wayanad and Coorg<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Public Transport<\/td>\nKSRTC bus services connecting the airport with Kannur, Mattannur and Iritty; additional local bus connections via Mattannur<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ideal Tourist Destinations<\/td>\nMuzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Thalassery, St. Angelo Fort, Payyambalam Beach, Bekal Fort, Wayanad and Coorg<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Best For<\/td>\nNorthern Kerala beach holidays, Kannur-Thalassery cultural tours, Theyyam experiences, Malabar heritage trips and Coorg-Wayanad itineraries<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Official Website<\/td>\nwww.kannurairport.aero<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nearest Airport in Kerala for Popular Destinations in Kerala<\/h2>\n

Choosing the nearest airport can reduce travel time and make your Kerala itinerary more comfortable<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE – 15 Best Places To Visit In Kerala\u00a0 With Map (Updated)<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Tourist Destination<\/th>\nNearest Airport in Kerala<\/th>\nApprox. Road Distance<\/p>\n

from Airport<\/th>\n

Typical Drive Time<\/p>\n

from Airport<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

Fort Kochi<\/td>\nCochin (COK)<\/td>\n40\u201345 km<\/td>\n1\u20131.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Munnar<\/td>\nCochin (COK)<\/td>\n110\u2013130 km<\/td>\n3.5\u20134.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Alleppey (Alappuzha)<\/td>\nCochin (COK)<\/td>\n75\u201385 km<\/td>\n1.5\u20132.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Kumarakom<\/td>\nCochin (COK)<\/td>\n75\u201385 km<\/td>\n2\u20132.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Athirappilly Waterfalls<\/td>\nCochin (COK)<\/td>\n35\u201340 km<\/td>\n1\u20131.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Thekkady<\/td>\nCochin (COK)<\/td>\n145\u2013190 km<\/td>\n4\u20135.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Kovalam<\/td>\nTrivandrum (TRV)<\/td>\n10\u201316 km<\/td>\n25\u201345 minutes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Varkala<\/td>\nTrivandrum (TRV)<\/td>\n45\u201357 km<\/td>\n1\u20131.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Poovar<\/td>\nTrivandrum (TRV)<\/td>\n30\u201335 km<\/td>\n1\u20131.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ponmudi<\/td>\nTrivandrum (TRV)<\/td>\n60\u201367 km<\/td>\n2\u20132.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Wayanad (Kalpetta)<\/td>\nCalicut (CCJ)<\/td>\n85\u2013100 km<\/td>\n2.5\u20133.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Kozhikode Beach<\/td>\nCalicut (CCJ)<\/td>\n28\u201332 km<\/td>\n45\u201375 minutes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nilambur<\/td>\nCalicut (CCJ)<\/td>\n40\u201350 km<\/td>\n1\u20131.5 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Muzhappilangad Beach<\/td>\nKannur (CNN)<\/td>\n25\u201340 km<\/td>\n45\u201375 minutes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Bekal Fort<\/td>\nKannur (CNN)<\/td>\n85\u2013105 km<\/td>\n2\u20133 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Ground Transportation from Kerala Airports<\/h2>\n

Finding a ride to your hotel from the airport is pretty simple in all four airports. You can find pre paid taxi counters right inside the arrivals hall. Even though\u00a0 Uber is\u00a0 available from most airports, sometimes getting it will be difficult.\u00a0 Make sure to book a private cab in advance during the peak tourist season if you don’t want to pay a high cost. Also, if you have a hotel reservation, check whether they offer airport pickup.<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE – Kerala Itinerary Guide-Costs, Routes, Transport & Best Trip Plans<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

For budget travelers, getting around the city without a private cab is also easy with state-run KSRTC buses. These buses connect to every major surrounding town, while Kochi specifically has dedicated airport buses that connect directly to the city.<\/p>\n

If you want total freedom in your travel, you can even rent a self-drive car from a rental car service right at the airport gates. However, check with a few rental companies before finalizing one to get the best price.<\/p>\n

Which Airport Is Best for Your Kerala Trip?<\/h2>\n

The best airport for your Kerala holiday depends on your itinerary, arrival city and preferred destinations. Since Kerala stretches over 500 km from north to south, choosing the right airport can save considerable road travel time.<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE – Kerala Trip Planning Guide-11 ways to ruin your holiday<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Choose Cochin International Airport (COK)<\/strong> if your trip includes Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Kumarakom or Fort Kochi. It is generally the most convenient option for a classic Kerala itinerary combining hill stations, backwaters and cultural attractions.<\/p>\n

Choose Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)<\/strong> if you plan to visit Kovalam, Varkala, Poovar or the beaches of southern Kerala. It is also convenient for travellers visiting Thiruvananthapuram and Kanyakumari.<\/p>\n

Choose Calicut International Airport (CCJ)<\/strong> for holidays centred around Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram and the southern parts of the Malabar region.<\/p>\n

Choose Kannur International Airport (CNN)<\/strong> if you want to explore Kannur, Thalassery, Muzhappilangad Beach, northern Malabar or nearby parts of Coorg.<\/p>\n

Travel Tip:<\/strong> If your Kerala holiday starts in Kochi and ends in Kovalam or Trivandrum, consider booking your arrival flight to Cochin and your return flight from Trivandrum. This can help avoid a long return drive across the state, depending on your route and available flights.<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE- Getting from Kochi Airport to Alleppey\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Can You Arrive at One Kerala Airport and Depart From Another?<\/h2>\n

Yes, you can arrive at one international airport in Kerala and depart from another. This is called a multi-city or open-jaw flight itinerary<\/strong>, and it can be a convenient option for tourists visiting several destinations across Kerala. Instead of returning to your arrival airport, you can finish your holiday near a different airport, saving time and unnecessary road travel.<\/p>\n

For example, if your Kerala holiday includes Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Kovalam, and Varkala<\/strong>, you can fly into Cochin International Airport (COK)<\/strong> and depart from Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)<\/strong>. This allows you to travel through Kerala from central to southern destinations without returning to Kochi.<\/p>\n

Option 1: Arrive at Cochin Airport and Depart from Trivandrum Airport<\/h3>\n

This is a practical option for travellers planning a Kerala itinerary that combines hill stations, backwaters, and beaches.<\/p>\n