INDIA. Noida International Airport (NIA), the major greenfield airport project in Greater Delhi, will begin passenger operations on 15 June, it was confirmed today.
Yamuna International Airport Private Limited – a subsidiary of Zurich Airport International – is responsible for the vast new hub’s development, construction and operations.
NIA is set to be one of the world’s great gateways, one that should help ease congestion at Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport in the National Capital Region, boost regional connectivity and support economic growth. It is also the latest in a series of big infrastructure developments redefining the market for Indian aviation.
The start of services follows the inauguration of the airport by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28 March. It also follows approval for the Aerodrome Security Program from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, which confirms that the airport’s security framework, systems and operating procedures are in place and in line with regulatory requirements, ahead of the launch of commercial services.
IndiGo will operate the first flight, marking the start of scheduled passenger services, to be followed by Akasa Air and Air India Express.
Previewing the opening and the commercial opportunities last year, the airport company said: “Passengers travelling through NIA will have a seamless and engaging shopping and dining experience. Heinemann Asia Pacific and BWC Forwarders will curate a dynamic mix of retail and duty-free offerings, showcasing both global brands and local treasures.
“Travel Food Services (TFS) and HMSHost India (a subsidiary of Avolta) will offer the best of airport dining with premium lounges and diverse multi-cuisine dining options. The F&B landscape at NIA will celebrate the region’s rich culinary traditions, blending local flavours with global cuisines to create a memorable dining experience. Passengers can expect an exciting culinary journey, featuring specially curated options that evoke a sense of place.
“The lounges, operated by TFS, will offer an engaging environment with live interactive food stations, expansive buffets, an experiential cocktail bar and spa services designed for ultimate relaxation. Complementing this, our partnership with TajSATS will enhance inflight services through a state-of-the-art kitchen dedicated to delivering exceptional catering.”