GMR Airports unveils expansion roadmap for Nagpur Airport; plans Rs 300-Cr initial investment
Nagpur, July 8 (TNT): GMR Airports Ltd on Wednesday unveiled a multi-phase modernisation and expansion roadmap for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur, with an initial investment of about ₹300 crore, following the completion of the airport’s privatisation process.
In a release, the Airport said the development plan follows the successful handover of nearly 1,000 hectares of land by Maharashtra Airport Infrastructure Ltd (MIL) on June 25 and the declaration of the Commercial Operations Date (COD), enabling GMR Nagpur International Airport Ltd (GNIAL) to commence operations and execute its long-term expansion plans.
The acquisition strengthens GMR Airports’ footprint in India’s growing aviation sector and aligns with its strategy of developing high-potential airport assets with strong passenger, cargo and commercial growth prospects.
The first phase of the project, to be implemented over the next eight years, will focus on upgrading passenger facilities, expanding operational capacity and positioning Nagpur as a key aviation and logistics hub for the Vidarbha region.
GMR Airports plans to increase the airport’s passenger handling capacity from the current three million passengers annually to 30 million passengers during the 30-year concession period, with the potential to scale up to 50 million passengers annually in the future.
The company also plans to develop Nagpur into a major cargo and logistics hub with a long-term cargo handling capacity of 150,000 metric tonnes per annum, leveraging the city’s strategic location at the geographical centre of India and its proximity to the MIHAN project.
Nearly 100 hectares of the land parcel have been earmarked for Aerocity development, which is expected to create commercial opportunities, generate employment and support regional economic growth.
GMR Airports Chairman G.B.S. Raju said airports are catalysts for economic growth and regional development, adding that the Nagpur project reflects the company’s long-term vision of creating world-class aviation ecosystems that strengthen connectivity and contribute to India’s infrastructure-led growth.
Executive Director and Chief Innovation Officer S.G.K. Kishore said the company aims to develop Nagpur into a sustainable, future-ready aviation hub with smart infrastructure, improved passenger experience and environmentally responsible operations.
Nagpur Airport CEO Srikanth Bhandarkar said the expansion is aimed at transforming the airport into a modern gateway offering greater efficiency, convenience and comfort while supporting the city’s long-term growth.
The first phase, to be completed within 12-18 months, includes refurbishment of the existing terminal, additional check-in counters and self-service kiosks, expansion of security screening facilities, new passenger lounges, improved boarding infrastructure and enhanced landside amenities.
The second phase, planned over the third and fourth years, envisages construction of a new integrated terminal with an initial capacity of four million passengers annually, a new cargo terminal with 20,000 metric tonnes annual handling capacity, additional aircraft stands, fuel farm, ground handling facilities, expanded parking and commercial developments.
The third phase, to be implemented during years five to eight, includes construction of a second runway, a new Air Traffic Control tower, dedicated power and water infrastructure, and other facilities to support long-term operational growth and resilience.
The company said the project reinforces its strategy of developing integrated airport ecosystems by combining passenger growth, cargo infrastructure, commercial real estate and non-aeronautical revenue streams, while boosting trade, tourism, investment and regional connectivity.
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