Bengaluru: Passengers travelling to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) will soon enjoy more environmentally friendly journeys as BMTC prepares to deploy 85 new electric AC buses, replacing the existing fleet of older AC volvo buses. Charging infrastructure will be established at Terminal II of the airport to support these operations.
Due to operational constraints, BMTC plans to operate these electric buses primarily from Central Business District. Electric services are not expected on routes from distant locations such as Electronics City, Chandapura, and other points situated more than 50km from the airport.

A BMTC official said: “Initially, we will phase out approximately 80 buses with electric alternatives. Additional replacements will follow in subsequent phases.” The official confirmed fares for electric buses will remain consistent with current ‘Vayu Vajra’ rates.
On not operating electric AC buses on longer routes, the official said: “Under our agreement, the private operator must fulfil an assured 225km daily. However, these longer routes involve schedules covering 350km to 400km journeys, creating challenges for electric bus charging. This issue does not affect other routes.”
With passengers currently experiencing taxi service shortages, particularly from airport to the city, BMTC’s new buses are likely to attract more users. At present, 11,000 to 14,000 people utilise airport bus services daily, though the ageing fleet has affected the reputation of ‘Vayu Vajra’ services.
Currently, 450 AC volvo buses operate throughout the city, with 140 serving airport routes. “According to policy, older AC buses must be decommissioned after reaching a certain operational age. This year, 80 to 90 AC buses will be decommissioned. On airport routes, we currently operate relatively newer buses introduced in 2018-19. As we replace these with electric buses, we will redeploy the airport route AC buses within city limits,” the official added.