Kurnool Airport

Overview

Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy Airport (also known as Kurnool Airport) is a domestic airport serving the city of Kurnool and the broader Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, India. Named after the 19th-century freedom fighter Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy, the airport primarily caters to passengers traveling for business, government work, and regional connectivity. It operates limited scheduled flights, focusing on linking Kurnool with major hubs such as Hyderabad and Bengaluru. The airport is relatively new and small in scale, designed to handle the growing demand for air travel in this part of the state. It plays a key role in reducing travel time for residents and visitors who previously had to rely on road or rail connections to reach larger airports.

Location & Access

The airport is situated near the village of Orvakal, approximately 12 kilometers east of Kurnool city center. It lies off the Kurnool–Nandyal road (State Highway 49), making it accessible by private vehicle or taxi. The surrounding landscape is typical of the Rayalaseema region: dry, rocky terrain with scattered scrub vegetation. For passengers arriving by car, the airport offers a wheelchair-accessible car park. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available from Kurnool city; travel time is roughly 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. There is no direct public bus service to the airport terminal, so pre-booking a private vehicle is recommended. The nearest major city is Hyderabad, about 200 kilometers north, which also has a large international airport. For those traveling from nearby towns like Nandyal, Adoni, or Yemmiganur, the airport provides a convenient alternative to longer road journeys.

Facilities

As a domestic airport, Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy Airport offers essential amenities for passengers. The terminal is equipped with wheelchair-accessible features, including the entrance, car park, and toilets, ensuring ease of movement for travelers with mobility challenges. Baggage storage is available for those who need to store luggage temporarily. Basic toilet facilities are maintained on site. The airport also provides general on-site services such as check-in counters, security screening, and waiting areas. Given its small size, there are no extensive shopping or dining options; passengers should plan accordingly. The peak hours are around 3 pm and 4 pm, corresponding to flight arrivals and departures, so expect busier conditions during these times. It is advisable to arrive at least one hour before departure for domestic flights.

About the Region

Kurnool is the headquarters of Kurnool district in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. This area is historically significant, known for its role in the Indian independence movement and as the former capital of Andhra State (1953–1956) before the formation of Andhra Pradesh. The region is characterized by a semi-arid climate, with the Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers flowing nearby. Agriculture is a mainstay, with crops like cotton, groundnuts, and chili peppers. The nearby Orvakal rock formations and the Kurnool Caves (also known as the Belum Caves, one of the longest cave systems in India) are notable natural attractions. The city itself has several temples and historical sites, including the Konda Reddy Fort and the Sakhi Venkateshwara Temple. Travelers often visit for business related to agriculture, mining (limestone and barytes), and government administration. The airport helps boost local tourism and economic activity by improving access to this historically rich but less-visited part of Andhra Pradesh.

Practical Information

The airport does not operate every day; flights are scheduled on select days of the week. Prospective passengers should check the current flight schedule with the airline or on the Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation (APADC) website: http://www.apadcl.com/. Peak hours are limited to the afternoon (around 3 pm and 4 pm), so services and staff are concentrated during these times. The airport has no direct phone listing provided; for inquiries, contact APADC through their website. Given the limited operating days, it is essential to confirm flight availability and timings before traveling to the airport. Wheelchair assistance is available upon request, and the accessible facilities cater to passengers with reduced mobility. For those driving, ample parking is available near the terminal. Overall, the airport serves as a functional gateway for Kurnool and the surrounding region, providing a streamlined travel experience for those flying to or from this part of Andhra Pradesh.