Greater Noida: Marking its operational readiness, the first validation flight successfully landed at the Noida International Airport (NIA), in Jewar today.
Operated by IndiGo, the flight touched down in the afternoon, receiving a ceremonial water cannon salute and a big round of applause, particularly from the site workers who have been integral to the project’s progress. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, Member of Parliament Gautam Buddha Nagar Dr Mahesh Sharma, and Jewar MLA Dhirendra Singh were present on the occasion along with senior officials including Secretary Ministry of Civil Aviation, Vumlunmang Vualnam, Chairman Airport Authority of India Vipin Kumar, and Additional Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh S P Goyal.
The validation flight confirmed the airport’s approach and departure procedures, ensuring the accuracy of navigational aids and air traffic control systems. Civil Aviation Minister Naidu commended the efforts of the entire team involved and remarked that Jewar Airport is set to transform air travel and regional connectivity in India. He emphasized that the airport, which will open in 2025 with one operational runway and a terminal capable of handling 12 million passengers annually, will serve as a world-class facility while reflecting the cultural heritage and identity of Uttar Pradesh through its design, craftsmanship, and passenger services. He also thanked the farmers of Jewar for their support, which was crucial in making the airport a reality and enabling Uttar Pradesh to have its 17th operational airport.
The Minister also conducted a review meeting with the airport operator and directed them to adhere strictly to project deadlines to ensure the airport becomes operational by April 2025. He stressed the need for Jewar Airport to deliver services that set new benchmarks, with infrastructure that is truly world-class and incorporates elements of local culture and craftsmanship. He also reviewed the progress of connectivity plans, including road, rail, and metro links, and discussed future high-speed rail connectivity, which could integrate the airport with the broader regional and national transportation network.
Naidu paid special attention to sustainability measures, such as the use of solar energy to power the airport, reiterating the government’s commitment to eco-friendly infrastructure development. He underlined the immense economic potential of the project, which is expected to create thousands of jobs, boost tourism, and drive regional development in Western Uttar Pradesh. He expressed his gratitude to the site workers, acknowledging their hard work and dedication in bringing to life what will be Asia’s largest airport.
The Minister extended his best wishes to the Noida International Airport team and thanked IndiGo for operating the validation flight that set the stage for NIA’s operational debut in 2025.
– global bihari bureau
