Jalgaon Airport (JLG)

Jalgaon Airport (IATA: JLG, ICAO: VAJL) is a domestic airport serving the city of Jalgaon and the surrounding Khandesh region in Maharashtra, India. It plays a crucial role in enhancing regional connectivity for this industrial and agricultural center, providing a vital link to major metropolitan hubs. Managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the airport primarily facilitates business and leisure travel, supporting the local economy by improving access to the region known for its banana cultivation and industrial zones.

Originally an airstrip, the facility was upgraded and inaugurated for commercial operations in 2012. Its modern significance is largely tied to its inclusion in the Indian government's UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, a regional connectivity initiative designed to make air travel more affordable and accessible in smaller cities. This program led to the revival of scheduled passenger services, re-establishing Jalgaon on India's aviation map after periods of inactivity and connecting it to key economic centers.

The airport is conveniently located approximately 9 kilometers southeast of Jalgaon city center, adjacent to National Highway 53. This strategic location makes it easily accessible by road. Travelers typically reach the airport using private vehicles, local taxis, or auto-rickshaws. The drive from the main city area to the terminal usually takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Operations at Jalgaon Airport are exclusively domestic. It is not an international airport and does not handle customs or immigration services. Flight schedules are limited, with regional airlines like Star Air operating services to destinations such as Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Passenger traffic is modest, consistent with its status as a small regional airport.

The facility consists of a single, compact passenger terminal building designed for functional efficiency. Amenities for travelers are basic but sufficient for the airport's current scale of operations. The terminal includes a few check-in counters, a security hold area, and an arrivals hall with a baggage carousel. While extensive retail or dining options are unavailable, a small snack and beverage counter may be present. Seating areas and restrooms are provided for passenger convenience.

For travelers using Jalgaon Airport, arriving 90 minutes before a scheduled departure is recommended to ensure a smooth check-in and security process. As transport options at the airport can be limited, it is advisable to pre-book a taxi or arrange for a pickup, particularly for flights arriving late or departing early. Passengers planning onward travel should account for the limited frequency of flights and build sufficient buffer time for connections at larger hub airports.