Flying from Jewar on June 15? THIS major airline won't be there

Noida International Airport in Jewar is set to begin commercial flight operations on June 15, marking a significant development for air travel in the National Capital Region. However, passengers will have fewer airline options than initially expected, with Air India Express postponing its plans to launch services from the new airport.

IndiGo will begin operations on the airport's opening day, while Akasa Air is scheduled to start services from June 16. Air India Express, meanwhile, has indefinitely deferred its entry into the airport.

NCR's second major international airport takes off

Located in Jewar in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar district, Noida International Airport has been developed as Delhi-NCR's second major international airport. The project is expected to reduce pressure on Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport and improve connectivity for residents of Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Agra, Aligarh and nearby areas.

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The airport's first phase has been designed to handle millions of passengers annually, with future expansion already planned. Authorities believe the project will strengthen regional connectivity and support economic growth in the rapidly developing Jewar and Yamuna Expressway region.

Why Air India Express has stepped back

While preparations for the airport's launch are complete, Air India Express will not be part of the initial operations.

The TOI report said the Tata Group-owned low-cost carrier has put its Jewar plans on hold indefinitely. Sources cited in the report said the Air India Group is currently focused on cost controls and network rationalisation amid financial pressures.

The report added that the airline may be reluctant to invest in setting up operations at another airport within the Delhi-NCR market when it already maintains a significant presence at Delhi Airport. Route reductions by Air India Express have reportedly affected some Delhi services as well.

As a result, IndiGo is expected to remain the dominant airline at the airport in the near future.

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Hindon Airport also affected

Air India Express has also withdrawn its services from Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad, according to the report.

Flight activity at the defence-operated airport has declined in recent months. Hindon has faced operational challenges, including limited aircraft parking and restricted operating hours, which can make handling schedule disruptions more difficult. Efforts are reportedly underway to increase parking capacity at the airport.

FAQs:

Which airlines will operate from Jewar Airport when it opens?

IndiGo will begin services on June 15, while Akasa Air is scheduled to start operations from June 16.

Why has Air India Express delayed its Jewar Airport launch?

Reports suggest the airline is focusing on cost controls and network rationalisation while reviewing expansion plans.