The Andhra Pradesh government has approved the establishment of bars and liquor shops at airports across the state, with the exception of Tirupati Airport, according to an order issued by the Excise Department on Saturday. The new policy permits the granting of bar licences at airports, allowing up to three service points under a single licence. These bars will be allowed to operate round the clock, although authorities have clarified that operations must comply with airport requirements, security protocols, and law-and-order regulations.
As per the order, applicants seeking a bar licence must submit an application in Form-1B along with a non-refundable fee of Rs 5 lakh to the concerned excise deputy commissioner. After verification, the district excise officer will issue the licence in Form-2B.
Similarly, liquor shops at airports will be permitted based on recommendations from the respective airport operators. Applicants must apply in Form A-3(B) with a non-refundable fee of Rs 2 lakh. Following due verification, licences will be issued by the district excise officer.
The validity of both bar and liquor shop licences will be aligned with the duration of the agreement or Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the airport operator and the licensee, in accordance with existing rules.
Officials said the decision follows a detailed review by a group of ministers, who examined airport liquor policies in states such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Karnataka. Based on their recommendations, the government has introduced revised guidelines covering licence fees, operational norms, and service provisions.
The move is expected to enhance passenger amenities at airports while maintaining regulatory oversight through strict compliance measures.
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