Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the first phase of Noida International Airport in Uttar Pradesh’s Jewar on Saturday. The airport is expected to serve as a major international hub for cities such as Noida, Meerut, Ghaziabad, Mathura and Agra, while also acting as a gateway to several religious and tourist destinations.
Developed as the second international airport for the Delhi-NCR region, the Noida airport will complement Indira Gandhi International Airport. Together, the two airports are expected to ease congestion, enhance passenger capacity, and strengthen Delhi-NCR’s standing as a global aviation hub, according to official sources.
Inside Noida International Airport
Ahead of the launch, Prime Minister Modi shared glimpses of the airport on Friday. In its initial phase, the airport is expected to handle around 12 million passengers annually. Once fully operational, its capacity could expand to 70 million passengers per year.
Key Features You Should Know
The airport boasts a 3,900-metre runway designed to accommodate wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 777-300ER. It is equipped with advanced navigation systems, including the Instrument Landing System, along with modern airfield lighting to ensure smooth operations in all weather conditions.
Officials have designed the airport as a multi-modal transport hub, integrating road, rail, metro, and regional transit networks. This is expected to significantly reduce travel time and lower logistics costs.
The terminal design draws inspiration from Indian heritage, incorporating elements reminiscent of the ghats of Varanasi and Haridwar, along with haveli-style architecture, courtyards, and the use of local materials, art, and lattice screens.
Sustainability is another key focus, with features such as natural lighting and ventilation, rainwater harvesting, and plans for renewable energy usage, aligning with a net-zero emissions goal.
The first phase of the project has been developed at an estimated cost of ₹11,200 crore under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The government describes it as one of India’s largest greenfield airport projects.
The airport’s catchment area is based on a 120-minute travel radius, covering regions including Delhi, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, and parts of Meerut, Sonipat, Jhajjar, and Rewari.
