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Nagpur Airport Set for Major Modernisation, Targets 30 Million Passengers
Pooja Srivastava | Anytime News Network
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved the long-term modernisation and upgrade of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The decision is expected to transform the airport into a world-class aviation and cargo hub for central India.
As part of the approval, the lease period of land provided by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to Mihan India Limited (MIL) will be extended beyond August 2039. This extension will allow GMR Nagpur International Airport Limited (GNIAL) to operate and develop the airport for a concession period of 30 years.
Officials said the move marks a major milestone for the Multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport at Nagpur (MIHAN) project. The airport is expected to emerge as a key regional aviation center with improved passenger and cargo handling capabilities.
The background of the project dates back to 2009 when AAI and Maharashtra Airport Development Company Limited (MADC) formed a joint venture company, MIL. Although airport assets were transferred earlier, lease deed issues delayed implementation. In 2016, MIL initiated a global tender process to identify a private operator under the PPP model, where GMR Airports Limited emerged as the highest bidder. After legal proceedings and a Supreme Court ruling in favour of GMR, the concession agreement with GNIAL was finally signed in October 2024.
The government believes the airport redevelopment will usher in a new phase of infrastructure growth and connectivity for the Vidarbha region. Under the phased development plan, the airport’s ultimate capacity is projected to reach 30 million passengers annually, making it one of central India’s largest airports.
The modernisation project is also expected to significantly boost cargo operations, attract investments, improve tourism, and create employment opportunities. Authorities said the collaboration between the private sector and government oversight would ensure better operational efficiency, upgraded infrastructure, and enhanced passenger experiences.
