The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata is preparing to celebrate a century of operations, marking 100 years since its establishment in 1924. The airport will officially commemorate this milestone starting December 21, 2024, with a three-month program, the logo for which was unveiled on Friday.
Originally known as the Calcutta Aerodrome in the early 1900s, the airport quickly became a vital international hub by 1924. That year, KLM Airlines began making scheduled stops on its route from Amsterdam to Batavia (now Jakarta). The year 1924 also marked several historic firsts for the airport, including the landing of Royal Air Force aircraft and the arrival of French pilot Mr. Doycee on May 2. Dum Dum Airport, as it was known then, also hosted a series of significant milestones, including the first night landing. On November 14, a flight from Amsterdam landed using kerosene-powered gooseneck lights along the runway to assist the aircraft in low visibility.
While the airport’s history is rich with significant events, modern-day passengers are calling for improvements as part of its centennial celebrations. Flyers have requested better facilities, including cleaner washrooms and more efficient transport options. These updates are seen as crucial to ensure that the airport remains a major player in global aviation as it steps into its second century of operations. The centenary celebrations are expected to highlight both the airport’s historical significance and its commitment to future improvements, positioning it as a key gateway for air travel in India and beyond.