Commercial flight operations at the Noida International Airport are expected to begin within the next 45 to 60 days, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said on Saturday. The announcement signals that the long-awaited airport in Jewar is nearing operational readiness.
“The commercial operations at Noida airport will begin 45 to 60 days starting today,” Naidu stated, indicating a tentative timeline for the launch of services.
Security clearance key to launch
Before operations can commence, the airport must secure approval from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The clearance involves the issuance of the Airport Security Programme (ASP), a mandatory document outlining the airport’s security framework.
The ASP includes detailed protocols related to access control, perimeter protection, passenger screening, and emergency response systems. It is a crucial requirement under aviation safety norms and must be in place before any commercial activity begins.
Officials noted that without this approval, Airport Entry Passes (AEP) cannot be issued to staff and stakeholders. These passes are essential for personnel to access operational areas of the airport.
According to officials, the airport will begin operations with a single runway. In the first phase, services will be limited to domestic and cargo flights. International flight operations will be introduced at a later stage.
Shailendra Bhatia, nodal officer of Noida International Airport Limited, also confirmed that preparations are on track and that operations are expected to begin within the announced timeframe.
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Single terminal, digital-first experience
The airport follows a simple, easy-to-navigate structure with a single integrated terminal. Departures are handled on the upper level, while arrivals take place on the lower level. This removes confusion often caused by multiple terminals. The airport also focuses heavily on digital convenience.
Entry gates are equipped with Digi Yatra, allowing biometric and contactless access. Passengers can use self-check-in kiosks and bag-drop counters for a faster process, with a target of completing check-in within 10 minutes. Full-service airline counters are also available for those who prefer assistance.
