The wait for Noida International Airport, also known as Jewar Airport, is finally coming to an end. Officials have confirmed that the airport is expected to start operations by May, subject to final regulatory approvals. This announcement brings excitement to millions of travelers and businesses in the Delhi-NCR and Uttar Pradesh region.
Key Developments and Expected Launch Date
Kiran Jain, COO of Noida International Airport, has stated that the airport is currently in the final stages of receiving its aerodrome license from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). If all goes as planned, the license is expected to be issued by mid-May, and the airport could start commercial operations by the end of the month.
The new airport will initially have the capacity to handle 12 million passengers annually. However, expansion plans are already in place to increase the capacity to 70 million passengers per year over the next few years.
What Noida International Airport Means for Travelers
The launch of this airport will ease congestion at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and provide better connectivity to cities in Uttar Pradesh and beyond. Here’s why this airport is a game changer:
- Faster Travel: Reduced travel time for people in Noida, Greater Noida, and Western Uttar Pradesh.
- Improved Connectivity: More domestic and international flights to key destinations.
- Economic Growth: Boost to tourism, trade, and employment in the region.
- World-Class Facilities: Modern infrastructure, seamless passenger experience, and sustainable technology.
International Flights and Connectivity
Reports suggest that Noida International Airport will have direct flights to several cities within India and select international destinations. It is also expected to enhance connectivity with Arab countries, making travel to and from the Middle East more convenient for passengers.
Apart from Middle Eastern destinations, the airport is likely to introduce direct flights to European and Asian cities, increasing its importance as a global travel hub.
Phased Expansion Plans
Noida International Airport will be developed in four phases to accommodate the increasing passenger traffic. The first phase, with a capacity of 12 million passengers per year, will be operational from May 2024. Over time, further developments will increase this capacity:
- Phase 1 (2024): 12 million passengers
- Phase 2 (2027): 30 million passengers
- Phase 3 (2032): 50 million passengers
- Phase 4 (2042): 70 million passengers
Infrastructure and Facilities
The airport will feature world-class amenities, including:
- Modern Terminals: Equipped with cutting-edge technology for smooth check-in and security procedures.
- Advanced Runways: Designed to handle large aircraft efficiently.
- High-Speed Connectivity: Expressways and metro lines to link the airport with Noida and Delhi.
- Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Use of renewable energy and sustainable aviation practices.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The launch of the Noida International Airport is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs in the aviation, hospitality, and transport sectors. Additionally, the airport is projected to boost real estate development, increase business investments, and strengthen Uttar Pradesh’s position as a major economic hub.
How Noida Airport Will Reduce Load on Delhi Airport
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is currently one of the busiest airports in the world, handling over 70 million passengers annually. With Noida International Airport’s phased expansion, air traffic pressure on Delhi’s airport will be significantly reduced, leading to better travel experiences for passengers.
What’s Next?
With its expected opening in May 2024, Noida International Airport will soon transform air travel in North India. The project is moving ahead as per schedule, and final preparations are being made for passenger operations.
Stay tuned for more updates as the airport gets ready to welcome its first flight!