By Air in Calcutta

By Air

All international and domestic airlines use Dum Dum Airport (CCU), 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the city.

Carriers

From the U.S.

Carriers serving India include Air Canada (tel. 800/776-3000); Air India (tel. 212/751-6200 or 33/260810 in India); Delta Airlines (tel. 800/221-1212); Northwest Airlines (tel. 800/447-4747); Tower Air (tel. 800/344-8693 or 718/553-8500); and United Airlines (tel. 800/241-6522).

From the U.K.

Carriers from the U.K. include Air Canada (tel. 020/87592636); Air India (tel. 01753/684828); British Airways (tel. 0345/222-111); and Thai Airways (tel. 020/7491-7953).

Within India

Indian Airlines is the national domestic carrier. A number of private airlines are starting operations, but financial turbulence may force many of them out of business. The entry of privately owned domestic carriers into the market has forced Indian Airlines to improve its service, but Indian Airlines flights are still subject to delays, and some scheduled departures are canceled without explanation. Check with your travel agent, tour operator, or the Government of India Tourist Office for the latest information on private carriers and flight schedules. Currently, fares for all carriers, including Indian Airlines, are about 40%-50% higher than air-conditioned first-class tickets on trains to the same destinations, but travel by air is much more comfortable.

For domestic flights, get your tickets when you purchase your international ticket to the subcontinent if possible. Some carriers are not allowed to sell their tickets outside India. Be certain tickets and not just reservations are confirmed. Indian Airlines is notorious for overbooking to important destinations, and you can be stranded with no recourse. Never schedule back-to-back flights; plan enough time for unexpected delays.

It is vital to reconfirm your flights at least 72 hours before departure. Since there are rigid security procedures, check in no later than 60 minutes before flight time, and expect tight security at all airports. Do not pack a pocketknife in your hand luggage. Even golf clubs are not allowed as hand luggage. Also remove the batteries from your camera or any electronics (except your computer) and pack them into your checked luggage. If you hand carry a computer, you will usually be asked to turn it on during the security check. For many flights, checked luggage must be identified on the tarmac before boarding.

Between the Airport and Town

By Bus

The airport coach (Rs. 50) goes to most of the better hotels and the city center; its counter is near the baggage-claim area.

By Shuttle

When you leave the airport baggage claim area, you'll find counters where you can get free airport shuttle service to and from your hotel.

By Taxi

A taxi downtown will take about 40 minutes and cost you around Rs. 300; use the prepaid taxi counter outside the baggage claim/customs.