The upcoming Noida International Airport (NIA), located near Delhi, is gearing up to become a major aviation hub in Uttar Pradesh, expected to handle around six million passengers in its first year of commercial operations. According to industry sources, the airport is on track to begin domestic and cargo flight services from the fourth quarter of 2025.
IndiGo Set to Be First Airline to Launch Services
Leading Indian carrier IndiGo (6E) is anticipated to be the first airline to launch passenger services from NIA. Meanwhile, regulatory bodies and the airport management are in the final stages of securing key operational approvals such as safety certifications, tariff structures, and system readiness trials, as reported by Hindu BusinessLine.
Infrastructure Ready to Welcome Passengers
The construction of the Noida International Airport has reached a critical phase, with most aeronautical infrastructure already in place. Christoph Schnellmann, CEO of NIA, confirmed that the roofing of the passenger terminal building has been successfully completed. The focus is now on interior finishing works and the installation of technical systems.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is actively commissioning equipment in the air traffic control tower, while a comprehensive Operational Readiness, Activation, and Transition (ORAT) program is underway. This includes trial runs, simulations, and system tests of baggage handling, security checkpoints, check-in counters, and boarding gates.
Terminal trials launched earlier this year are being conducted to evaluate real-time passenger flow, system integration, and coordination between airlines and ground handling teams, ensuring a seamless experience for future travelers.
Tariff Structure for Passengers
The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) has issued an interim tariff order for NIA. As per the order:
- Departing Domestic Passengers will be charged a User Development Fee (UDF) of ₹490
- International Departures will incur a UDF of ₹980
These charges are designed to support infrastructure development while remaining competitive in the region.
A Boon for Uttar Pradesh and Its People
The Noida International Airport is expected to significantly boost the region’s economy by improving connectivity, facilitating tourism, and increasing cargo movement. It will provide Uttar Pradesh residents easier access to domestic and international destinations, while also creating numerous job opportunities.
The airport is set to become a landmark infrastructure project, strengthening Noida’s position as an important business and transport hub in Northern India.
