Boundless Horizons: A Journey of Aviation Passion at Begumpet Airport
I have been enchanted by the sight of airplanes. During my childhood, I often visited my family in Hyderabad, who lived in very close proximity to the old airport in Begumpet on the takeoff and approach paths of Runway 27. I would run in and out of the house countless times in the day to watch flights arriving and departing. I still remember the loudest arrival of the day around 7 AM, the Boeing 777–200LR operated from Dubai-Hyderabad by Emirates. The Airline’s name under the belly of the aircraft with the triple bogie wheels, humungous wings and thunderous roar from those massive engines really was a spellbound experience to watch as a child.
The Begumpet airport was the 6th busiest operating several domestic and international flights out of Hyderabad. The Airport was heaven for Aviation enthusiasts, As I grew up, I visited various aviation shows by Wings India and Aero India, conducted every couple of years in Hyderabad. I was lucky to see many aircrafts and aerobatic shows along with the world’s largest passenger jet, the A380, which made its maiden flight to Hyderabad in October 2008. I also visited the stalls of Bombardier and de Havilland and was stunned by the range of chartered and commercial jets they have in their fleet.
chronicles of the Unforgettable Begumpet Airshow 2016
The March 2016 Aviation Show held at Begumpet Airport featured a remarkable lineup of aircraft, like the A380, Boeing 777 and 787, Embraer Jets and many more… But Air India’s Boeing 777–300ER on display caught my attention, It was the same feeling that I remember, I used to have each day watching the Boeing 777 during my childhood. It was a bright summer afternoon and the aircraft shined with Air India’s livery on it. It was the VT-ALS, named Mizoram by Air India as they name their aircrafts with states of India.
It was the very first time I have got to see such a long and wide aircraft in such a close proximity. With the tallest tail painted in shades of orange denoting the Flying Swan and the Konark Wheel, along with the humongous twin General Electric 90 Engines mounted on it. Anything around it like people, refuelling trucks felt very small. To someone with a deep sense of aviation, it’s a different feeling altogether.
I also got to meet pilots from across the globe and listen to their experiences first-hand. I had the unique opportunity to watch the aerobatic performance by Mr Mark Jefferies and Mr Tom Cassells from the Global Stars Aerobatic Team from the UK; who then performed aerobatics with their EXTRA 300 family of aircraft.
Benchmarks and Legacy:
Begumpet Airport, initially constructed in the 1930s, was once the primary aviation hub for the city.
But Begumpet Airport wasn’t just known for its infrastructure; it also had a unique claim to fame. In 1938, Hyderabad boasted its own aeroclub, breaking barriers by welcoming women as members. Over 70 passionate individuals joined, embracing the thrill of flying.
Among these remarkable pioneers was Capt Prema Mathur, a trailblazer in her own right. In 1948, she made history by becoming the first-ever Indian woman pilot to fly with Deccan Airways. Her groundbreaking flight took off from none other than Begumpet Airport, solidifying its significance in India’s aviation history.
Begumpet Airport continued to soar to new heights. It served as a base for Nizam’s Deccan Airline, a renowned carrier synonymous with luxury and excellence.
Begumpet Airport’s prestige extended beyond national boundaries. In the early 2000s, it had the honor of hosting a very special guest — President Bill Clinton’s Airforce One. This iconic aircraft touched down on Begumpet’s runway, marking a momentous occasion for the airport and the city as a whole.
Cultivating Aviation Dreams: Begumpet Airport’s Role in Inspiring Young Flyers
For aviation enthusiasts, Begumpet Airport offers a myriad of vantage points to witness the enchanting ballet of airplanes in the sky. The airport’s vicinity provides ample spots to capture the excitement and grace of takeoffs and landings. where you can witness aircraft gracefully descending towards the runway.
Begumpet Airport has been the proud host of renowned aviation shows like Wings India and Aero India, which attract aviation enthusiasts from around the world. These events provide a platform to showcase cutting-edge technologies, and magnificent aircraft, and foster industry collaborations. Held every couple of years, these shows transform Begumpet Airport into a vibrant hub of aviation excitement and innovation.
These aviation shows have featured an impressive array of aircraft from various airlines and manufacturers, captivating spectators with their presence and technological advancements. From commercial airliners to military aircraft, Begumpet Airport has welcomed a diverse range of flying marvels during these events.
Conclusion:
Begumpet Airport, situated in the heart of the city, faced limitations in terms of expansion, ultimately leading to the establishment of the new Hyderabad International Airport at Shamshabad, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. This transition marked the end of commercial operations at Begumpet Airport on March 22, 2008.
However, Begumpet Airport’s story didn’t end there. Equipped with modern facilities, it continued to serve the Indian Air Force, flight training institutes, and business jets. To this day, a wide range of aircraft grace its runways, from the humble Cessna 152s to the mighty C-17 Globemasters. This unique characteristic makes Begumpet Airport truly exceptional, as it is likely one of the few airports in the world that have witnessed the handling of aircraft spanning from the Cessna 152s to the awe-inspiring A380s.
Nevertheless, beyond its operational history, Begumpet Airport holds a deeper significance. It has nurtured a community of aviation enthusiasts who have been captivated by its geographic location and the legacy it has carried since the 1930s. This airport has inspired dreams, ignited passions, and forged lasting connections between the people of Hyderabad and the world of aviation.
As we bid farewell to the commercial era of Begumpet Airport, let us cherish the memories it has created. This airport holds a special place in the hearts of aviation enthusiasts, symbolizing the boundless love for flight. It has left an everlasting impact on the lives of those who have experienced the exhilaration of aviation within its boundaries. The legacy of Begumpet Airport lives on in the dreams and aspirations of countless individuals whose journeys into the sky took flight from this vibrant city amidst the captivating skies above.
