Aeropuerto de Calicut Int'l (Karipur) (CCJ)

Calicut International Airport (Karipur), designated by IATA as CCJ and ICAO as VOCL, is a significant gateway located in Kerala, India. Situated approximately 28 kilometers from the city of Kozhikode (formerly Calicut), and serving the Malabar region of the state, it acts as both a domestic and international hub for travelers. Calicut International was inaugurated in 1988, commencing operations that have grown exponentially over the decades.

The airport is nestled close to the small town of Karipur, which is why it is often referred to as Karipur Airport. It is one of Kerala's four international airports, a testament to the state's vibrant tourism and extensive overseas connections, particularly with the Middle Eastern countries. This link to the Middle East is of paramount importance, given the substantial diaspora from Kerala working in various Gulf countries.

Over recent years, Calicut International Airport has experienced significant growth in passenger traffic, reflecting its strategic importance. Annually, the airport handles over 3 million passengers, with around 24,000 aircraft movements, offering a considerable number of flights connecting to both domestic destinations like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, as well as international destinations mainly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Multiple airlines operate out of CCJ, including prominent names like Air India, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and IndiGo. These airlines serve a growing number of passengers, highlighting Calicut International as a pivotal connector in the region's aviation network. Its continued development underscores Kerala's position as a prime destination for both tourism and commerce.