Banaras silk, carpets and farm produce from eastern Uttar Pradesh all need a way out, and Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (IATA: VNS) at Babatpur, about 26 km north-west of Varanasi, is the gateway. An international airport, it pairs heavy pilgrim and tourist traffic with a growing freight business: cargo throughput has risen steadily for years, helped by more frequent freighter flights, upgraded handling and e-freight processes aligned with international norms. The cargo terminal is equipped with forklifts and the gear needed for safe loading, and express and charter freight is available. International services link Varanasi with the Gulf among other markets. National Highway 31 and the Varanasi rail network handle pre- and on-carriage. VNS is thus the principal air cargo node for eastern Uttar Pradesh, while large mainline-freighter volumes still move mainly via Delhi (DEL).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IATA code of Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport?▼

The IATA code of Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is VNS. This three-letter code is used for unique airport identification in international air transport.

Where is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport located?▼

Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is located in Varanasi, IN.

What is the ICAO code of Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport?▼

The ICAO code of Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is VEBN. This four-letter code is used internationally in aviation.

What is the elevation of Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport?▼

Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is at an elevation of 81 meters (266 ft) above sea level.

Location & Weather

25.45213, 82.86181

81 m ü. NN

Transit time routes from Varanasi

Mumbai → Shanghai Mumbai → Shenzhen Mumbai → Guangzhou Mumbai → Hong Kong Mumbai → Tokyo Mumbai → Busan

View all news

Last updated: 8 June 2026

Content verified & editorially approved

This airport is a record in the Global Cargo Airport Dataset.

The information on this page is based on publicly available transport and infrastructure data. The logistics significance of a location may change. All information without warranty.

No partner at this location yet

Your company operates here? Be the first partner visible at this hub.

Become a visible partner

Community Questions & Answers

Share your knowledge, ask follow-up questions, or add practical insights to this page. Every contribution is moderated before publication.

No community answers yet. Be the first.