PM Modi inaugurates phase 1 of Noida International Airport in Jewar

Uttar Pradesh’s ambitious airport project is now fully ready to commence operations, with all preparations completed for the high-profile inauguration scheduled on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated Phase 1 of the Noida International Airport in Jewar.

The airport has been developed as the second international airport serving the Delhi-NCR region, complementing the existing Indira Gandhi International Airport. Together, the two airports are expected to function as an integrated aviation system, easing congestion, expanding passenger capacity, and positioning the region among leading global aviation hubs.

Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were also present on the occasion. A sacred artefact of Lord Buddha was presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the event.

Phase I of the Noida International Airport has been developed at a total investment of around ₹11,200 crore under the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model. According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the airport, envisioned as a major international gateway for the National Capital Region (NCR), marks a significant step in strengthening the country’s airport infrastructure and enhancing regional and international connectivity.

Noida International Airport has been developed as the second international airport for the Delhi–NCR region, complementing Indira Gandhi International Airport. Together, the two airports will function as an integrated aviation system, easing congestion, expanding passenger capacity, and positioning Delhi–NCR among leading global aviation hubs.

Noida International Airport is among the largest greenfield airport projects in India. The airport will initially have a passenger handling capacity of 12 million passengers per annum (MPPA), scalable up to 70 MPPA upon full development. It features a 3,900‑metre runway capable of handling wide‑body aircraft, along with modern navigation systems including the Instrument Landing System (ILS) and advanced airfield lighting to support efficient, all‑weather, round‑the‑clock operations.

The airport also incorporates a robust cargo ecosystem, including a Multi‑Modal Cargo Hub with an integrated cargo terminal and logistics zones. The cargo facility is designed to handle over 2.5 lakh metric tonnes annually, expandable to around 18 lakh metric tonnes, and includes a dedicated 40‑acre Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, as stated in the PMO press release.

Designed as a sustainable and future‑ready infrastructure project, Noida International Airport aims to operate as a net‑zero emissions facility, integrating energy‑efficient systems and environmentally responsible practices. Its architectural design draws inspiration from Indian heritage, incorporating elements reminiscent of traditional ghats and havelis, thereby blending cultural aesthetics with modern infrastructure, the press release noted.

Earlier on Friday, PM Modi shared photos of the Noida International Airport at Jewar on social media, highlighting its importance for regional connectivity.

“Big boost for NCR connectivity! Phase I of Noida International Airport at Jewar will be inaugurated tomorrow,” the Prime Minister said in a post on WhatsApp before the event.

Uttar Pradesh’s ambitious airport project is now fully ready to begin operations, with all preparations in place for the high‑profile inauguration on Saturday.

Prime Minister arrived at the venue around noon on Saturday to inaugurate the airport, after which he will address a large public rally.

The administration implemented elaborate security measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the programme. The entire region has been divided into multiple security zones, with heavy deployment of police and paramilitary personnel at key locations. Surveillance has been intensified across the venue and adjoining areas to prevent any untoward incidents.

(with agencies input)