"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
20 Sep 2025
On October 30, India is set to witness the inauguration of a landmark project, the Noida International Airport at Jewar, Uttar Pradesh. Spanning 1,334 hectares, the airport has been meticulously developed in phases to become one of the country’s largest greenfield airports. With its opening, the airport promises to redefine air travel for millions, connecting northern India to domestic and international destinations more efficiently. Phase one focuses on the essentials: a 3,900-metre runway, a modern terminal capable of handling 12 million passengers annually, and core infrastructure that is largely complete. This launch is not just a matter of infrastructure but also a reflection of India’s growing ambition in aviation and logistics.
The Jewar airport project has been designed with a visionary expansion plan, spanning four phases. While the first phase handles 12 million passengers annually, the airport is slated to eventually accommodate up to 70 million passengers per year. Officials project that around six million passengers will use the airport in its first year of operations, a number expected to rise sharply as subsequent phases come online. The phased approach ensures that infrastructure development keeps pace with growing demand while minimizing operational bottlenecks.
The airport’s core infrastructure is ready. The runway and air traffic control (ATC) tower have been completed, ensuring safe take-offs and landings. The terminal structure is fully built, and facilities like aerobridges, baggage handling systems, and e-gates are already installed. Currently, interior works such as seating arrangements, lighting, restrooms, and art galleries are in their final stages, promising a world-class passenger experience. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) license remains the last major requirement before flight operations commence, bringing the project one step closer to reality.
To ensure smooth operations from day one, Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd (YIAPL), the airport concessionaire, is conducting Operational Readiness and Transition (ORAT) trials. These trials include simulation exercises, baggage system tests, and familiarization sessions for ground handling staff. Such meticulous preparations demonstrate a commitment to both safety and efficiency. Passengers can expect a seamless experience, from check-in to boarding, reflecting global standards in airport operations.
Beyond passenger travel, Jewar airport is being positioned as a major cargo hub. Its location near the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and the Dedicated Freight Corridor gives it a strategic advantage for logistics and supply chain operations. Officials believe this positioning will make Jewar a critical part of India’s air cargo ecosystem, facilitating faster movement of goods across northern India and beyond. For businesses, this could mean quicker delivery times, better connectivity for exports, and a boost to local industries.
The airport has been thoughtfully designed to prioritize passenger comfort and convenience. Alongside its modern terminals, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced several nationwide upgrades for Indian airports. Within the next two months, free WiFi will be available at all airports, while libraries and dedicated kids’ zones will be introduced to make travel more enjoyable for families.
Additionally, the AAI is expanding terminal capacity by acquiring nine extra hectares of land, enabling the addition of more gates and passenger bays in the future. These initiatives reflect a broader shift in India’s aviation strategy toward passenger-friendly airports that emphasize accessibility, convenience, and modern amenities. For families, the airport represents easier access to loved ones, whether for travel, education, or work, while for businesses it opens doors to efficient trade and cargo opportunities, reinforcing the region’s role in India’s economic growth.
The inauguration of Noida International Airport at Jewar on October 30 marks a milestone in India’s aviation journey. With world-class infrastructure, passenger-centric design, and strategic cargo capabilities, the airport is poised to become a key driver of growth for northern India. More than just concrete and runways, the airport symbolizes India’s ambition, connectivity, and modernity. As travelers step onto its terminals and cargo moves efficiently across its logistics networks, Jewar Airport will stand as proof of careful planning, technological innovation, and the human desire to connect. For millions, it will not only reduce travel times but also inspire pride in India’s infrastructure achievements, proving that with vision and dedication, large-scale projects can transform lives and communities.