Is the Noida Airport Ready for DGCA Approval Ahead of Inauguration?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Noida International Airport is nearing operational readiness.
- DGCA approval is expected soon, potentially by December 4.
- Initial operations will include domestic flights and cargo services.
- The project aims to alleviate air traffic congestion in the region.
- Completion of construction and successful technical trials have been confirmed.
Greater Noida, Dec 2 (NationPress) The preparations for the operational launch of the Noida International Airport are now in the final stages. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is anticipated to deliver its security inspection report to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) shortly.
If the DGCA deems the report satisfactory, the long-anticipated aerodrome license could be granted on December 4, eliminating a significant obstacle prior to the airport’s inauguration.
Officials indicate that the airport is projected to be inaugurated within a week of receiving the license, although the Uttar Pradesh government has yet to finalize a specific inauguration date.
The launch event is expected to be a prestigious ceremony featuring senior political figures from both state and central governments.
Shailendra Bhatia, the nodal officer for Noida International Airport Limited (NIAL), mentioned that the BCAS team conducted a thorough two-day evaluation of security arrangements. Some previously identified technical gaps were re-examined on Monday during an extensive reassessment of the airport's advanced security systems.
The inspection encompassed baggage and passenger screening systems, CCTV surveillance, access control points, perimeter security, anti-hijacking measures, bomb disposal capabilities, and 3D radar systems.
Bhatia noted that the security systems were found effective, and the BCAS has compiled its report based on these findings.
He also confirmed that all construction activities for the airport's first phase—spanning 1,334 hectares and including the runway, taxiways, terminal building, and parking facilities—have been completed.
Key technical trials, such as the baggage handling system, boarding processes, security checks, and passenger management protocols, have also been successfully finalized, as stated by him.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewed the progress on November 27 and directed officials to expedite the remaining tasks and the licensing process.
During its initial phase, the airport will commence operations with domestic passenger flights and cargo services. However, international flights and additional amenities will be introduced in later phases.
The inauguration of the Noida International Airport is anticipated to greatly alleviate air traffic congestion at airports in Western Uttar Pradesh and Delhi-NCR, while also enhancing employment and business prospects in the region.