Gaya Airport is an important international airport located in Gaya, Bihar. It serves both domestic and seasonal international flights, especially for Buddhist pilgrims visiting Bodh Gaya, one of the world’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. The airport is around 8 km from Gaya city centre and about 12 km from Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya.
The airport is owned and operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Although it is a relatively small airport, it plays a major role during the pilgrimage season by handling flights from countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Vietnam, and Myanmar. In recent years, passenger facilities and terminal services have been improved to support the growing number of domestic and international travellers.
Gaya Airport Quick Information
| Particular | Details |
| Airport Name | Gaya Airport |
| IATA Code | GAY |
| ICAO Code | VEGY |
| Airport Type | Domestic and Seasonal International |
| Operator | Airports Authority of India (AAI) |
| Owner | Airports Authority of India |
| Airport Address | Gaya Airport, Gaya Airport Road, Gaya, Bihar |
| PIN Code | 823004 |
| Number of Terminal(s) | 1 Integrated Passenger Terminal |
| Distance from City Centre | Approx. 8 km |
| Distance from Gaya Junction Railway Station | Approx. 10 km |
| Nearest Metro Station | No metro connectivity available |
| Nearest Bus Stand | Gaya Bus Stand (Approx. 8 km) |
| Official Website | https://www.aai.aero |
Address and Contact Details
Airport Address
Gaya Airport, Airport Road, Gaya, Bihar – 823004
IATA Code: GAY
ICAO Code: VEGY
Operator: Airports Authority of India (AAI)
Airport Phone Number: +91-631-2210027
24×7 Helpline: Available through the Airports Authority of India customer support and airline help desks.
Email Address: apdgaya@aai.aero
Official Website: https://www.aai.aero
Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for flight-specific information such as delays, cancellations, or baggage-related queries.
Terminal Information
Gaya Airport has one integrated passenger terminal that handles both domestic and seasonal international flights. The terminal is designed to process arrivals and departures efficiently while managing increased passenger traffic during the Buddhist pilgrimage season.
Inside the terminal, passengers can access check-in counters, baggage screening, comfortable waiting areas, drinking water, clean washrooms, information desks, airline ticket counters, and security screening facilities. Immigration and customs counters become operational when international flights are scheduled. The Airports Authority of India continues to upgrade airport infrastructure and passenger amenities to improve travel convenience and support future growth in domestic and international traffic.
Airlines and Flights
Airlines Operating
Major airlines operating from Gaya Airport include:
- IndiGo
- Air India Express (subject to seasonal schedules)
- Bhutan Airlines (seasonal)
- Thai AirAsia (seasonal/charter)
- Myanmar Airways International (seasonal)
- SriLankan Airlines (seasonal charter)
- Various international charter airlines during the Buddhist pilgrimage season
Airline schedules may change depending on the travel season.
Popular Destinations
Domestic Destinations
- Delhi
- Kolkata
International and Seasonal Destinations
- Bangkok
- Colombo
- Paro
- Yangon
- Hanoi
- Ho Chi Minh City
Most international services operate during the annual Buddhist pilgrimage season.
Passenger Facilities and Services
Despite being a medium-sized airport, Gaya Airport offers essential facilities for a comfortable journey. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi in selected areas, clean waiting lounges, restaurants and snack counters, ATM services, drinking water facilities, clean washrooms, charging points for electronic devices, and baggage trolleys.
Currency exchange services are available during international flight operations. Wheelchair assistance can be requested through airlines, while baby care rooms are provided for families travelling with infants. Medical assistance is available for emergencies, and airline help desks assist passengers with travel-related queries. Lost and Found support is available through the airport authorities. Security arrangements follow the standards laid down by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).
Parking Information
Gaya Airport provides parking facilities close to the passenger terminal. The parking area accommodates private cars, taxis, and two-wheelers. Separate pick-up and drop-off zones help passengers enter and exit the terminal smoothly.
Short-term parking is available for visitors accompanying passengers. Since the airport mainly serves domestic travellers and seasonal international flights, the parking area is usually sufficient for daily traffic. Passengers should check with airport authorities for the latest parking availability before travelling during peak pilgrimage months.
Location and Connectivity
Gaya Airport is well connected to the city and nearby tourist destinations.
- Taxi: Prepaid and local taxis are easily available.
- Ola/Uber: App-based taxi services operate in Gaya, though availability may vary.
- Bus: Local buses connect the airport with Gaya city and nearby areas.
- Auto-rickshaw: Easily available outside the airport.
- Private Vehicle: The airport is connected through well-maintained city roads.
- Metro: No metro service is available in Gaya.
Hotels Near Gaya Airport
| Hotel | Approx. Distance from Airport |
| Hotel Viraat Inn | 2 km |
| Hotel Taj Darbar | 7 km |
| The Imperial Bodhgaya | 8 km |
| Hotel Anand International | 8.5 km |
| Hyatt Place Bodh Gaya | 10 km |
Distances are approximate and may vary depending on the route taken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Gaya Airport code?
The IATA code of Gaya Airport is GAY, while the ICAO code is VEGY. These codes are used by airlines, airports, and travel booking platforms for ticketing, baggage handling, and flight operations.
What is the address of Gaya Airport?
Gaya Airport is located on Airport Road, Gaya, Bihar – 823004. The airport is approximately 8 km from Gaya city centre and around 12 km from the famous Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya.
What is the PIN Code of Gaya Airport?
The official PIN Code of Gaya Airport is 823004. This PIN Code should be used for postal correspondence and navigation purposes when visiting the airport.
Who operates Gaya Airport?
Gaya Airport is owned and operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). AAI is responsible for airport operations, passenger services, maintenance, air traffic infrastructure, and terminal management.
How many terminals does Gaya Airport have?
Gaya Airport has one integrated passenger terminal that serves both domestic and seasonal international flights. The terminal includes check-in counters, immigration facilities, security screening, and passenger waiting areas.
Which flights operate from Gaya Airport?
The airport offers scheduled domestic flights to cities such as Delhi and Kolkata, along with seasonal international flights and charter services to destinations including Bangkok, Colombo, Paro, Yangon, and other Buddhist pilgrimage centres.
Is parking available at Gaya Airport?
Yes. Gaya Airport has dedicated parking for private cars, taxis, and two-wheelers. Pick-up and drop-off areas are available close to the terminal, making passenger movement convenient.
Is there a metro station near Gaya Airport?
No. Gaya currently does not have a metro rail network. Travellers can reach the airport by taxi, auto-rickshaw, bus, or private vehicle from Gaya city and nearby areas.
Conclusion
Gaya Airport is an important gateway to Bihar and one of India’s key airports for Buddhist tourism. With a modern integrated terminal, essential passenger facilities, reliable road connectivity, and seasonal international services, it offers a smooth travel experience for domestic and overseas visitors. Before travelling, passengers should check their latest flight status and airline schedule, especially during the international pilgrimage season, to avoid any last-minute inconvenience.