Agra AFS: Location, History and How to Reach

Agra AFS or Agra Air Force Station is a key operational base of the Indian Air Force with strong historical and strategic importance. From its early role during World War II to its modern use as a transport and surveillance hub, the station has evolved continuously. Its dual role as a military base and civil airport further strengthens its national importance.

What is Agra AFS?

Agra AFS is a strategically vital military aviation facility in Uttar Pradesh, India. It ranks among the Indian Air Force's largest airbases. These notes detail its history, primary functions, and current operational profile. Understanding Agra AFS highlights its contribution to national defence and logistics.

History and Establishment

The station began during World War II as Royal Air Forces Station Agra. The United States Army Air Forces also used it as a major maintenance and supply depot. This depot supported crucial operations, including those over "The Hump." Following India's independence, the base transferred to the Royal Indian Air Force. It officially became Air Force Station Agra on August 15, 1947. The Paratroopers Training School (PTS) was re-established here in 1949. The base moved from Western Air Command to Central Air Command in July 1971.

Key Functions

Agra AFS serves multiple essential roles for India's defence.

• Paratroopers Training: The Paratroopers Training School conducts jump training for soldiers and NCC Cadets.

• Strategic Air Transport: The base operates various transport aircraft, moving personnel and supplies.

• Mid-Air Refuelling: It hosts squadrons dedicated to aerial refuelling, extending the range and endurance of fighter aircraft.

• Airborne Early Warning and Control (AWACS): The station supports AWACS platforms, critical for air surveillance and command.

• Civilian Airport: The base also operates as Kheria Airport, facilitating domestic air travel.

Aircraft and Units

Throughout its history, Agra Air Force Station has hosted many aircraft types.

• Historical Aircraft: Douglas Dakota, Fairchild C-119 Packet, Antonov-32, HS 748 'Avros', AN-12s, IL-76s, Canberras.

• Current Operational Units:

• No. 78 ‘Mid Air Refuelling Squadron’ (MARS): Operates IL-78MKIs.

• No. 12 Squadron: Operates An-32 aircraft.

• No. 50 Squadron: Operates Beriev A-50EI (AWACS) aircraft.

• Unnamed flying squadron: Operates C-295 aircraft.

Agra Air Force Station Location and Infrastructure

Agra AFS is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, south of New Delhi. It is easily accessible within the region. Check Agra Air Force Station address on various parameters below:

• Coordinates: 27.1618°N, 77.9707°E.

• Elevation: 168 meters (551 feet).

• Codes: IATA code AGR, ICAO code VIAG.

• Runways: Two concrete runways, 05/23 and 12/30.

• Civil Terminal: The domestic terminal is undergoing expansion, with completion planned for late 2027 or early 2028. This expansion will boost the Agra Air Force Station location's connectivity.

How to Reach Air Force Station Agra?

Air Force Station Agra is easily accessible by air, rail, and road.

• By Air: Agra Airport (Kheria Airport) is located within the Air Force Station premises and is connected to major Indian cities by domestic flights.

• By Train: Agra Cantt Railway Station is the nearest major station, around 6–8 km away. Taxis, autos, and cabs are easily available from the station.

• By Road: Agra is well connected via the Yamuna Expressway and national highways. Regular buses and taxis operate from Delhi and nearby cities.

• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and app-based cabs are commonly used. Entry inside the Air Force Station is permitted only with valid authorization.

Historical Aircraft Preservations

Several retired aircraft are preserved at the Agra AFS premises.

• Two Fairchild Packet aircraft (IK 455, IK 463) are reportedly stored at PTS Agra.

• One Douglas C-47 Dakota (HJ 905) is preserved.

• A HAL HF-24 Marut (D 1277) is located at the Air Force School within the premises.

• An Mi-4 helicopter is on display at one of the base gates.

• There are unconfirmed sightings of grounded Canberra Bombers.

Agra AFS Evolution of Aircraft Operations

The base has consistently upgraded its aircraft and operational capabilities.

• WWII Era: Functioned as a crucial maintenance and supply base for Allied forces.

• Early IAF Period (1947-1970s): Served as a primary hub for transport and paratrooper training, starting with C-47 Dakotas. Fairchild C-119 Packets later became central to these operations.

• Modern Era (1980s onwards): The base integrated newer transport aircraft like the Antonov-32. It also introduced specialized assets such as IL-78 MKIs for mid-air refuelling and Beriev A-50EI for AWACS. This continuous upgrade underscores the strategic importance of air force station Agra.