India’s civil aviation sector is witnessing rapid growth as the country pushes to enhance regional connectivity, boost tourism, support industrial development, and ease pressure on existing metro airports. Amid rising passenger traffic and economic ambitions, several greenfield and new airport projects are progressing across states. From Gujarat’s industrial corridor to Odisha’s pilgrimage heartland, these upcoming airports promise to redefine air travel, create jobs, and drive balanced regional development.
A recent overview highlights key projects that are expected to become operational or advance significantly in the coming years, including Dholera, Bhogapuram, Shri Jagannath (Puri), Kota, and Sonpur airports. These initiatives align with the government’s broader vision of expanding India’s airport network substantially by 2047.
Dholera International Airport, Gujarat
Located near Ahmedabad in the ambitious Dholera Special Investment Region (one of India’s largest greenfield smart cities), this greenfield international airport spans over 1,400 hectares. Designed primarily to support manufacturing, exports, and cargo movement, it will serve as a vital gateway for western India’s industrial growth.
The first phase is expected to be completed by late 2026, with initial operations potentially starting around December 2026. Once operational, the airport will strengthen Gujarat’s position as an export and investment hub, reducing reliance on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad and facilitating smoother international cargo and passenger traffic.
Bhogapuram International Airport, Andhra Pradesh
Situated approximately 45 km from Visakhapatnam along the eastern economic corridor, **Bhogapuram International Airport** is a major greenfield project aimed at serving both domestic and international travellers as well as cargo needs. The foundation stone was laid in 2023, and the airport is targeted for completion around mid-2026 at an estimated cost of over ₹4,500 crore.
This new facility will act as a dedicated gateway for eastern India, easing congestion at Visakhapatnam Airport, promoting coastal tourism, and attracting investments in export-oriented industries. It is expected to significantly improve connectivity for the region and support Andhra Pradesh’s industrial and tourism ambitions.
Shri Jagannath International Airport, Odisha (near Puri)
Planned as a multi-phase development near the sacred city of Puri, the **Shri Jagannath International Airport** focuses heavily on religious tourism and pilgrimage traffic. It will provide better access to the famous Jagannath Temple and other cultural sites, reducing travel time for millions of devotees who currently rely on Bhubaneswar Airport.
Site clearance and planning are underway, with development expected to progress after 2026. The project forms part of Odisha’s larger plan to expand its airport network, including upgrades to multiple airstrips and a target of 15 operational airports by 2047. This airport will boost hospitality, local economy, and cultural tourism in the state.
Kota Greenfield Airport, Rajasthan
Kota, a renowned education hub famous for its coaching centres, will soon get its own greenfield airport with a runway of approximately 3,200 metres. Currently under development, the project aims for completion between 2026 and 2027.
The new airport will ease the burden on Jaipur and Udaipur airports, making travel more convenient for students, families, and business travellers. It is also expected to stimulate tourism to Rajasthan’s heritage sites, wildlife sanctuaries, and nearby attractions, contributing to the state’s overall economic growth.
Sonpur Greenfield Airport, Bihar
In northern Bihar, the proposed Sonpur Greenfield Airport has received approval and is designed to address capacity constraints at Patna Airport. It will accommodate larger aircraft and expand passenger handling capabilities in the region.
Expected to become operational around 2030, the airport will improve connectivity for business, tourism, and local development in underserved areas of Bihar, offering a much-needed alternative to the existing infrastructure.
Supporting Regional Connectivity through UDAN and Smaller Projects
Beyond these major greenfield airports, the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme continues to expand access to smaller towns. Recent examples include new or upgraded facilities at Datia and Satna in Madhya Pradesh, and the expansion of Thoothukudi Airport in Tamil Nadu. These projects help decentralise air travel, reduce dependence on congested metro hubs, and promote economic activity in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
Broader Impact on Indian Aviation
These upcoming airports are more than just infrastructure projects. They are catalysts for economic transformation generating employment in construction, operations, hospitality, and allied sectors; boosting tourism and pilgrimage; facilitating cargo and trade; and supporting the government’s goal of building a robust, inclusive aviation ecosystem.
With India aiming to significantly increase its total number of airports in the coming years, these developments signal a shift towards balanced growth. Passengers can look forward to shorter travel times, more direct flights, and improved regional access in the near future.
As these airports take shape from Gujarat to Odisha and beyond, they underscore India’s commitment to modernising its aviation landscape and unlocking the potential of its diverse regions. Travellers and businesses alike stand to benefit from this exciting phase of infrastructure expansion.
