Bangalore International Airport Limited announced that Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru has reached its 18th year of operations, unveiling a Permanent Pictorial Cancellation (PPC), a Special Cover, and Picture Postcards in collaboration with India Post. The initiative acknowledges the airport’s significance as Bengaluru’s gateway to the world and mirrors the city’s evolution into a globally connected center for technology, innovation, business, and culture. Since its inception in 2008 as India’s first Greenfield airport under a public-private partnership, Bengaluru Airport has flourished into a prominent aviation hub, bolstering the city’s emergence as a key global destination.
The Permanent Pictorial Cancellation, featuring Nadaprabhu Kempegowda alongside Bengaluru Airport, signifies the link between the city’s heritage and its modern international identity. Additionally, the Special Cover and Picture Postcards have been introduced as mementos for travelers and philately enthusiasts, available at the airport post office. Aligned with Bengaluru Airport’s “Feels Like BLR” campaign, the initiative aims to offer culturally immersive passenger experiences.
Hari Marar, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BIAL, highlighted the airport’s 18-year journey, paralleling Bengaluru’s transformation. He emphasized how the airport, evolving from a Greenfield project to a leading aviation hub, has been shaped by culture, connectivity, and futuristic infrastructure. Marar noted that the Permanent Pictorial Cancellation serves as a thoughtful tribute to the airport’s growth and its ties to the city.
V. Tara, Director Postal Services, Bengaluru HQ Region, described the release of the PPC as a tribute to BLR Airport’s importance as a crucial gateway to Bengaluru and the broader region. She expressed pleasure in celebrating an establishment that reflects the city’s heritage and contemporary global standing. The Special Cover and Picture Postcards are intended to serve as enduring souvenirs for travelers, collectors, and residents alike.
A Permanent Pictorial Cancellation is a special long-term postmark issued by India Post to honor places of cultural, historical, or tourist significance. The PPC at Bengaluru Airport will be accessible to the public at the airport post office starting May 26, 2026, while the Special Cover and Picture Postcards will be obtainable at the Philatelic Bureau at Bengaluru GPO and other Philatelic Bureaus across Karnataka.
