Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated Phase 1 of the Noida International Airport in Jewar, marking the launch of one of India’s most ambitious aviation infrastructure projects. The new airport is expected to significantly enhance connectivity in the National Capital Region (NCR) and reduce pressure on Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).
The Prime Minister was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Governor Anandiben Patel, and Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu during the inauguration ceremony.
Second International Airport for Delhi-NCR
The Noida International Airport will become the second international airport serving the Delhi-NCR region after the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.
According to the government, the two airports will operate as an integrated aviation system, helping to:
- Reduce congestion at IGIA
- Increase passenger handling capacity
- Strengthen Delhi-NCR’s position as a global aviation hub
Key Gateway for Uttar Pradesh Cities
The newly inaugurated airport will serve as a major aviation hub for several cities in western Uttar Pradesh, including:
- Noida
- Meerut
- Ghaziabad
- Mathura
- Agra
Officials said the airport will also act as an important gateway for tourists and pilgrims visiting religious and heritage destinations in the region.
Traffic Advisory and Security Arrangements
Ahead of the Prime Minister’s visit, security was tightened around the airport premises, and traffic restrictions were imposed across parts of Gautam Buddh Nagar district.
The Gautam Buddh Nagar Traffic Police issued a traffic advisory that remained in force from 7 am to 11 pm on Saturday.
Key measures included:
- Designated entry routes for visitors
- Separate parking zones
- Diversion of commercial vehicles
- Special arrangements to ensure uninterrupted movement of emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire services
Project Faced Multiple Delays
The launch of the airport had been postponed several times since its initial planned opening.
Originally scheduled for December 1, 2024, the inauguration was later deferred to April 2025, then to September 2025, before finally being scheduled for early 2026.
PM Modi to Address Public Gathering
Following the inauguration ceremony at 12 noon, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to address a public gathering, highlighting the importance of the project in strengthening India’s aviation infrastructure and improving regional connectivity.
The government described the airport as a “major international gateway for the National Capital Region”, expected to play a crucial role in boosting economic development, tourism, and global connectivity in the coming years.
