Commercial flight operations will officially shift from Visakhapatnam Airport to the newly developed Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport in Bhogapuram from August 17, marking a major milestone in Andhra Pradesh's aviation infrastructure.

According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, all commercial services operating from the Civil Enclave at Visakhapatnam Airport (INS Dega) will cease from 00:01 hours on August 17, with operations moving to the new airport in Vizianagaram district.

The transition follows the inauguration of the airport by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 1. Developed at an investment of nearly Rs 4,727 crore, the Greenfield airport has been completed in just 31 months, nearly five months ahead of schedule, making it one of the fastest-completed international Greenfield airports in the country.

The Ministry also announced that the International Air Transport Association (IATA) airport code "VTZ", currently used by Visakhapatnam Airport, will be transferred to the new airport from 00:01 hours on August 17. Additionally, the Bhogapuram Greenfield Airport has officially been renamed Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport with immediate effect.

While commercial flight operations will move entirely to the new airport, the Civil Enclave at Visakhapatnam Airport will remain reserved for national emergencies and aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force, other Armed Forces, police authorities, and special government-owned, leased, or hired VIP aircraft.

The airport has already received its DGCA aerodrome licence, along with all mandatory safety, fire, and environmental clearances, and is ready to begin commercial operations.

In its first phase, the airport has been designed to handle 6 million passengers annually, with a long-term master plan to expand its capacity to 40 million passengers per year.

Spread across 2,703.26 acres, the integrated project includes 2,203.32 acres for the airport, 500 acres for an aviation hub, and 136.63 acres earmarked for an Aviation University and EduCity. The development also features commercial spaces, residential zones, approach roads, and supporting infrastructure.

The airport's 3,800-metre Code-E runway is capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft, including the Boeing 777, Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Airbus A330, and Airbus A340. It is equipped with advanced airfield lighting, navigation systems, and CNS/ATM infrastructure to support both domestic and international operations.

Passengers will also benefit from modern terminal facilities such as contact boarding bridges, Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS), self-baggage drop, self-service passenger processing, smart surveillance, integrated security systems, and an Integrated Operational Control and Monitoring Centre.

The new airport is expected to play a significant role in strengthening tourism, trade, exports, logistics, industrial investment, and the aerospace and defence sectors across the erstwhile Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam districts, while enhancing Andhra Pradesh's overall air connectivity.

Air India has launched its Easy Connect services from Amritsar, expanding the Government of India's hub-and-spoke aviation model and offering travellers from Punjab easier access to 27 international destinations through Delhi. The launch follows the nationwide rollout of the initiative announced in June 2026.

The new service allows international passengers departing from Amritsar to complete through check-in for their final destination, finish immigration formalities at Amritsar airport, and transfer seamlessly through Delhi without the need to collect and re-check baggage or change terminals.

By routing international transfers through Delhi, the programme simplifies the travel experience, helping passengers avoid repeated procedures and the challenges often associated with transiting through foreign airports.

Air India has designated two daily flights between Amritsar and Delhi under the Easy Connect programme:

• AI1113: Departs Amritsar at 09:10 AM and arrives in Delhi at 10:40 AM

• AI1115: Departs Amritsar at 10:00 PM and arrives in Delhi at 11:20 PM

These services provide onward connections within four hours to 27 international destinations across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, West Asia, and Southeast Asia.

Commenting on the launch, Mr Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Hon'ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India, said: “The expansion of hub-and-spoke operations to Amritsar is another step towards our vision of building an aviation network that truly serves a New India - one where global access is no longer confined to a handful of metropolitan centres but extends to every region of the country. By strengthening connectivity through Indian hubs, we are strengthening the foundation for a more integrated, accessible, and globally competitive aviation ecosystem."

"With these flights, Punjab becomes closer to the rest of the world, deepening connections with its vibrant global diaspora and unlocking new opportunities for tourism, economic growth, and cultural exchange.”

The inaugural event was attended by Mr Samir Kumar Sinha, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation; Mr Puneet Kansal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation; Mr Vipin Kumar, Chairman, Airports Authority of India; and Mr P. Balaji, Group Head - Governance, Risk, Compliance & Corporate Affairs, Air India, along with senior officials from government agencies, airport stakeholders, and Air India.

The morning Easy Connect flight is scheduled to connect passengers to major European destinations including London Heathrow, Birmingham, Paris, Milan, Copenhagen, Vienna, Amsterdam, Zurich, Frankfurt, and Rome, besides select cities in Southeast Asia and West Asia.

The late evening service offers convenient connections to destinations such as New York (JFK), Newark, San Francisco, Chicago, Toronto, Vancouver, Melbourne, Sydney, Singapore, Phuket, Bali, Dubai, and several other international cities.

Air India will also become the first Indian airline to implement the Ministry of Civil Aviation's Standard Operating Procedure for inbound hub-and-spoke operations. This will enable seamless international-to-domestic transfers via Delhi for passengers travelling onward to Amritsar. The inbound Easy Connect model is expected to be introduced within the next two months.

Speaking on the initiative, P. Balaji, Group Head – Governance, Risk, Compliance & Corporate Affairs, Air India, said: "Punjab is home to one of the largest globally connected communities of Indians, with generations of families, entrepreneurs, students, and professionals forging strong links with communities around the world, especially the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. Yet for many travellers, international journeys have often involved navigating multiple airports, repeated formalities, and lengthy transit experiences. With Easy Connect flights from Amritsar, travellers can now begin their overseas journeys from their home city without any hassle. We are proud to support the Government of India’s vision to bring the world closer to every Indian while strengthening India’s position as a major global aviation hub."

Following the launch in Amritsar and Varanasi, Air India plans to expand the Easy Connect programme to additional cities including Ahmedabad, Goa, Kochi, and several other destinations across India in the coming weeks.

The initiative is part of a larger effort to route more international passengers through Indian airports instead of overseas transit hubs. Of the nearly 25 million passengers travelling long-haul to and from India each year, around 20 million are connecting travellers, with approximately 85% currently transiting through foreign airports. Through the hub-and-spoke framework and Air India's expanding domestic and international network, Easy Connect aims to gradually shift more of this traffic through Indian hubs, delivering a smoother and more integrated travel experience.

Passengers using Easy Connect services are required to complete specific pre-departure and transit procedures, including mandatory DigiYatra enrolment for Indian passport holders travelling internationally. Bookings are available through Air India's website, mobile app, contact centre, and authorised travel agents.

The best friendships are not measured by how often people meet, but by the memories they create when they finally come together. This Friendship Day, instead of settling for another dinner plan or virtual catch-up, travellers can celebrate their bonds with a memorable getaway.

From wildlife adventures and lakeside escapes to beach holidays and mountain retreats, ZANA Luxury Escapes and Country Inn Hotels & Resorts offer destinations designed for friends looking to relax, explore, and create unforgettable experiences together.

1. ZANA Forest Resort, Ranthambore

Located close to Ranthambore National Park and spread across 11 acres of lush greenery, ZANA Forest Resort, Ranthambore offers the perfect escape for friends seeking adventure and relaxation.

Guests can begin the day with an exciting jungle safari, spend afternoons unwinding by the pool, and end evenings with leisurely meals, live music, and conversations that continue long after sunset. Surrounded by nature and designed for slow-paced experiences, the resort provides an ideal setting to reconnect away from everyday routines.

2. ZANA Lake Resort, Udaipur

With stunning lake views, ZANA Lake Resort, Udaipur offers a scenic setting for a memorable friends’ getaway. The resort allows guests to enjoy relaxed days by the infinity pool, outdoor activities across its green lawns, and dining experiences overlooking the water.

The monsoon season further enhances Udaipur’s beauty, making it a perfect destination for friends looking to unwind, catch up, and enjoy quality time together.

3. ZANA In the Wild, Jim Corbett

For groups seeking adventure and entertainment, ZANA In the Wild, Jim Corbett combines nature experiences with recreational activities.

Friends can enjoy thrilling safari experiences, spacious accommodations, swimming pool sessions, and an arcade featuring air hockey, basketball, racing simulators, and video games. Evenings come alive with live music and dining experiences, creating the perfect atmosphere for group celebrations.

4. Country Inn Goa

For friends who love beaches, nightlife, and exploring new places, Country Inn Goa offers an ideal location in North Goa.

With easy access to Calangute Beach, cafés, beach shacks, shopping areas, and nightlife spots, the resort serves as a convenient base for a fun-filled holiday. Guests can spend their days exploring Goa’s beaches, relaxing by the pool, and experiencing the vibrant energy of the destination.

5. Country Inn Premier Pacific Resort, Mussoorie

A timeless favourite for group holidays, Mussoorie continues to attract travellers with its misty hills, charming cafés, and scenic viewpoints.

Country Inn Premier Pacific Resort, Mussoorie complements the hill station experience with comfortable accommodations, peaceful surroundings, and panoramic valley views. After exploring Mall Road, local cafés, and nearby attractions, friends can return to the resort for a relaxing evening surrounded by the mountains.

6. Country Inn Nature Resort, Bhimtal

Spread across 13 acres of greenery, Country Inn Nature Resort, Bhimtal offers a peaceful retreat for friends looking to slow down and reconnect.

Guests can enjoy boating at Bhimtal Lake, visit Kainchi Dham, or take part in activities such as zip lining, rope cycling, badminton, horse riding, and indoor pool experiences. With scenic surroundings and plenty of opportunities for shared moments, the resort creates the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and lasting memories.

7. Country Inn Smart Stays, Rishikesh

Designed for young travellers, Country Inn Smart Stays, Rishikesh combines adventure, social experiences, and comfort.

Friends can spend their days white-water rafting, café hopping, exploring local attractions, and shopping before returning to enjoy the rooftop pool, restaurant, rooftop café, and recreation spaces featuring pool, karaoke, and games.

With vibrant common areas and unique bunk-bed accommodation options, the property is ideal for groups seeking an energetic and youthful travel experience.

Whether it is chasing wildlife trails, relaxing beside a lake, exploring beaches, or escaping to the mountains, these destinations offer the perfect opportunity to celebrate friendship beyond messages and calls.

This Friendship Day, gather your favourite people, pack your bags, and create stories that will be remembered long after the journey ends