The Andhra Pradesh Air Travellers Association (APATA) has called on the state government to expedite infrastructure development and ensure seamless connectivity to the upcoming ASR Greenfield International Airport at Bhogapuram in Vizianagaram district, ahead of operations shifting from the existing Visakhapatnam International Airport.
Connectivity Demands
APATA has specifically urged authorities to accelerate construction of the coastal corridor to improve airport access. The association has requested that the government and GMR enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with Uber and Ola for fixed-cost airport taxi services, utilizing technology to optimize routes and ensure shortest travel time and distance.
This initiative would provide fare transparency, prevent surge pricing, reduce passenger costs, and alleviate airport congestion. APATA also called for creation of a dedicated app-based pickup zone at the terminal.
Additional Infrastructure Requests
The association has urged authorities to increase daily flight movements beyond 90 at the new airport and introduce fixed-fare transport systems in coordination with app-based cab operators.
APATA has also sought establishment of a dedicated cargo terminal at Bhogapuram airport, which would help reduce logistics costs and enable exports to be routed directly through Vizag.
International Connectivity
The association has called for restoration of key international flight services to Colombo, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok, which had been discontinued due to operational restrictions at the existing airport. Revival of these services, along with existing connectivity to Singapore and Abu Dhabi, would strengthen international air links from north coastal Andhra Pradesh.
