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Noida International Airport has received its aerodrome license from the DGCA, paving the way for the beginning of commercial operations.
The license was issued under Rule 78 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937. It approves that the airport fulfils regulatory requirements covering operational procedures, safety systems, infrastructure, navigation equipment and emergency response arrangements set out in the civil aviation authority’s regulations.
The development follows a recent approval from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, which granted security clearance for domestic passenger services and domestic and international cargo operations. Airport officials said the approvals signify progress in preparations to start operations.
Additional regulatory steps remain before commercial flights can commence. The airport’s Aerodrome Security Programme is under review by BCAS. Upon approval, the airport operator coordinates with government agencies, airlines and service providers to set a timetable for induction and the start of scheduled flights.
Operational readiness activities are happening under the airport’s Operational Readiness Activation and Transition programme, which tests systems, procedures and staff preparedness before opening.
One of the project's earlier milestones occurred in December 2024, when IndiGo conducted a validation flight on an Airbus A320. The flight-tested approach procedures, navigation systems and air traffic control operations at the airport.
As stated by the airport operator, the key infrastructure required for operations has been completed. Contracts have been awarded for services such as ground handling, aviation fuel supply, cargo operations, in-flight catering, retail, food and beverage outlets, mobility services and the airport hotel. Communications and navigation systems are installed by the Airports Authority of India.
Commercial operations will commence once the Aerodrome Security Programme has obtained approval from BCAS. Airline schedules and ticket sales will be announced closer to the launch date.
More than a few carriers have already indicated plans to operate from the airport. IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Air India Express have confirmed their services, while discussions are continuing with other domestic and international airlines. Cargo operators are also in talks with the airport.
The airport is situated near the Yamuna Expressway, connecting it to Noida, Greater Noida, Delhi, and Gurugram, as well as Agra, Mathura, and Vrindavan, which can be reached in about 2 hours by road.
The Noida International Airport is developed in four phases. The initial phase comprises one runway and one passenger terminal intended to handle about 12 million passengers a year. Plans for later phases would increase capacity to about 70 million passengers annually.
The project is developed by Yamuna International Airport Private Limited, a subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG. The concession agreement for the airport began in October 2021 and runs for 40 years.
Source: Hindustan Times
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