Quick Answer
The best way to get from Port Blair Airport (IXZ) to the city center for most travelers is by taking an official pre-paid taxi, costing â¹450-550 and taking 10-15 minutes. The cheapest way is the public bus for about â¹30, taking 25-30 minutes. There is no train service on the island.
Taxi & Pre-Paid Cab from Port Blair Airport
The most convenient and popular door-to-door option. Immediately upon exiting the baggage claim area at Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), you will find the official pre-paid taxi counter.
| Vehicle Type | Approx. Fare to City Center | Capacity | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Sedan (Non-AC) | â¹ 400 - 450 | 3-4 Passengers + Luggage | Most Common |
| Standard Sedan (AC) | â¹ 450 - 550 | 3-4 Passengers + Luggage | Recommended for comfort |
| SUV / Innova (AC) | â¹ 600 - 800 | 6-7 Passengers | For groups/families |
How it works: Tell the operator your destination (hotel name/area). They will issue a fixed-fare slip. Hand this slip to the assigned driver waiting outside. No cash is exchanged with the driver. This system is government-regulated, transparent, and avoids haggling.
Unofficial Taxis & Negotiation
Outside the official pre-paid area, drivers may offer services. Exercise caution. Always agree on a firm price before getting in. Prices here are typically similar to or slightly higher than pre-paid rates. For first-time visitors, the pre-paid counter is strongly advised for peace of mind.
Public Bus from Port Blair Airport to City
Operated by the Andaman & Nicobar State Transport Service (ANSTS), this is the budget-friendly choice. The bus stop is a short 1-2 minute walk from the terminal exit, clearly signposted.
Key Details:
- Fare: Approximately â¹30 per person (exact change helpful).
- Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes, but schedule can be irregular. Service aligns with flight arrivals to an extent.
- Route: The bus goes to the Main Bus Terminus at Aberdeen Bazaar, the central hub of Port Blair.
- Travel Time: 25 to 30 minutes.
Pros, Cons & Luggage Consideration
Pros: Extremely cheap, authentic local experience. Cons: Can be crowded, limited space for large suitcases, slower, and may require an auto-rickshaw or short walk to your final hotel from the bus stand. Ideal for solo travelers or backpackers with one manageable backpack.
Private & Hotel Transfers
For a seamless arrival, especially for families, groups, or those with special needs.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers
You can book a car with a driver online before your trip through various tour operators or transport aggregators. The driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name sign. Cost: â¹700 - â¹1200, depending on vehicle and service level. Benefit: Guaranteed service, meet-and-greet, often includes bottled water.
Hotel-Arranged Pickup
Many mid-range to luxury hotels and reputable guesthouses offer paid or sometimes complimentary airport pickup. Always confirm this via email before arrival. The cost is usually bundled or comparable to a pre-paid taxi. This is highly recommended for a stress-free start to your holiday.
Ticket & Cost Comparison Table
Use this table to quickly compare all your options for transferring from IXZ to Port Blair city.
| Transport Mode | Approx. Cost (INR) | Travel Time | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Paid Taxi (AC) | â¹450 - 550 | 10-15 min | Most travelers, first-time visitors, convenience | Fixed fare, available 24/7 for flights |
| Public Bus (ANSTS) | â¹30 | 25-30 min | Budget travelers, solo backpackers | Very limited luggage space, irregular timing |
| Pre-Booked Private Car | â¹700 - 1200 | 10-15 min | Families, groups, luxury travelers | Meet-and-greet, guaranteed, highest cost |
| Hotel Pickup | â¹0 - 600 | 10-15 min | Guests of offering hotels | Must be arranged in advance |
Note: There is no train, metro, or ride-sharing app (Uber/Ola) service available for this transfer.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Beyond the basic logistics, here are practical insights for a smooth transfer:
- Currency & SIM: Withdraw cash (INR) from the ATM inside the airport terminal before heading to transport. Consider getting a local SIM (Airtel/VI) at the counters just outside arrivals for immediate connectivity.
- The "First Impression" Scam: Ignore overly helpful individuals inside the terminal offering "discounted" taxis or tours. Proceed directly to the official pre-paid counter.
- Luggage Tip: If you have more than one large suitcase per person, a taxi is essential. Bus luggage space is virtually non-existent for tourist-sized bags.
- Late-Night Arrivals: The pre-paid counter functions for all scheduled flights. Your confirmed hotel booking details are crucial to show the taxi operator.
- Road Condition: The road from the airport is decent but can be winding and hilly. If you're prone to motion sickness, choose the front seat.
- Official Resources: For the latest official bus schedules, refer to the Andaman Official Tourism Website.
FAQs: Port Blair Airport to City Transfers
Is there a direct train from Port Blair Airport to the city?
No, there is no direct train service from Port Blair Airport (IXZ) to Port Blair city. Veer Savarkar International Airport is located on an island, and the primary modes of transport are road-based: taxis, pre-paid cabs, and public buses.
What is the cheapest way to get from Port Blair Airport to the city?
The cheapest way is the public bus (Andaman & Nicobar Transport Service - ANSTS). The fare is approximately â¹30 per person. Buses depart from just outside the airport terminal and take about 25-30 minutes to reach the main bus stand in Port Blair (Aberdeen Bazaar).
How much is a taxi from Port Blair Airport to the city center?
A pre-paid taxi from the official counter at IXZ airport to most city center hotels costs between â¹450 and â¹550 (approx $6-$7 USD) for the standard sedan (4 passengers). The journey takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
How long does it take to get from Port Blair Airport to the city?
Travel time varies by mode: Taxi/Private Cab: 10-15 minutes. Public Bus: 25-30 minutes. The airport is only about 4-5 km from the heart of Port Blair, making transfers relatively quick.
Is Uber or Ola available at Port Blair Airport?
No, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola do not currently operate in the Andaman Islands. Your options are the official pre-paid taxi counter, privately negotiated taxis (not recommended for first-timers), or public transport.
What if my flight arrives late at night in Port Blair?
The pre-paid taxi counter at IXZ operates for all scheduled flight arrivals, including late-night ones. Public buses may not run very late. Therefore, a pre-paid taxi is your safest and most reliable option for late-night arrivals.
Is it easy to get a taxi on arrival, or should I book a transfer in advance?
It is generally easy to get a pre-paid taxi on arrival as the counter is well-organized. However, booking a private transfer in advance is advisable for large groups, those with lots of luggage, or travelers wanting guaranteed service and a meet-and-greet. You can book via official tourism affiliates or your hotel.
Can I rent a self-drive car at Port Blair Airport?
No, self-drive car rentals are extremely rare in the Andamans for tourists due to permit restrictions and logistical reasons. The standard practice is to rent a car with a local driver. While some agencies are in the city, it's uncommon to find a rental desk directly at the airport arrival hall.