Adani's Navi Mumbai and Guwahati airports win 'World's Most Beautiful 2026'
Synopsis
Two Adani-managed Indian airports have broken into a global top-seven list for architectural excellence — a first for any single Indian airport operator. The lotus-inspired Navi Mumbai terminal and Guwahati's Bamboo Orchid-themed Terminal 2 beat out rivals from the US, Germany, China, and Cambodia to claim spots at the Prix Versailles awards, presented at UNESCO in Paris.
Key Takeaways
Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL) won two spots in the 'World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026' list by Prix Versailles .
Navi Mumbai International Airport's Terminal 1 was recognised for its lotus-inspired futuristic architecture.
Terminal 2 of Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati was honoured for its Bamboo Orchid -inspired biophilic design.
The two Indian airports were selected alongside hubs in Guangzhou, Frankfurt am Main, Kandal Stueng, Pittsburgh , and San Diego — just seven projects worldwide.
The Prix Versailles awards have been presented at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris since 2015 .
Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL) has secured a rare double at the Prix Versailles 2026 awards, with two of its flagship projects — the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and the new Terminal 2 of Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati — named among the 'World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026'. The announcement was made on Monday, 15 June, placing both facilities among just seven aviation infrastructure projects worldwide to receive the honour this year.
What the Award Recognises
The Prix Versailles, presented annually at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, is regarded as one of the world's most prestigious architecture and design citations. Established in 2015, the award celebrates projects that move beyond conventional infrastructure to blend aesthetics, sustainability, and cultural significance. This year's aviation shortlist spans hubs in Guangzhou (China), Frankfurt am Main (Germany), Kandal Stueng (Cambodia), Pittsburgh and San Diego (United States) — alongside the two Indian entries.
Design Highlights: Navi Mumbai and Guwahati
Navi Mumbai International Airport's Terminal 1 drew recognition for its lotus-inspired architecture and futuristic design language. The terminal is designed to integrate technology, art, and functionality, positioning itself as a symbol of India's aspirations as a modern global economic powerhouse.
Terminal 2 at Guwahati's Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport earned praise for a distinctly regional design identity. The terminal draws architectural inspiration from the 'Bamboo Orchid', incorporating biophilic design principles that celebrate northeast India's rich biodiversity. Judges noted its balance of ecological sensitivity, cultural heritage, and operational efficiency, positioning the terminal as a key gateway to the region.
What Adani Airport Holdings Said
A spokesperson for Adani Airport Holdings Ltd said the recognition reflects the company's commitment to creating airport infrastructure that combines architectural excellence with functionality, sustainability, and operational efficiency. 'We are honoured to see our airports recognised on a global platform and remain committed to delivering world-class experiences that position India among the leading aviation markets of the world. At Adani Airports, we see airports as important connectors of people and regions,' the spokesperson said.
The company added that the honour validates its vision of developing infrastructure that not only meets global benchmarks but also showcases India's design capabilities and growing aviation ambitions.
Broader Significance for Indian Aviation
The dual recognition is notable in the context of India's rapid airport expansion. AAHL currently operates and develops multiple airports across the country, and the Navi Mumbai project in particular is among the most-watched greenfield airport developments in Asia. This is the first time Indian airports managed by a single conglomerate have featured simultaneously in the Prix Versailles aviation category, according to the company's announcement. The recognition adds reputational weight to India's bid to become a top-five global aviation market by the end of the decade.
Point of View
But it arrives at a moment when the group's broader infrastructure ambitions face scrutiny. Design awards and operational credibility are different metrics — India's greenfield airport pipeline, including Navi Mumbai, has faced repeated delays, and the real test will be whether the architectural vision translates into on-time delivery and passenger experience at scale. That said, two Indian airports featuring simultaneously in a UNESCO-backed global list is a genuine first, and it signals that Indian design capability is earning international recognition beyond cost-competitiveness alone.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Adani airports were named among the World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026?
Adani Airport Holdings' Navi Mumbai International Airport and Terminal 2 of Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati were both named among the 'World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026' by the Prix Versailles awards. They were two of only seven aviation projects globally to receive the honour this year.
What is the Prix Versailles award?
The Prix Versailles is an international architecture and design award presented annually at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. Established in 2015, it recognises projects that combine aesthetic innovation, cultural identity, and environmental responsibility across categories including airports, hotels, and retail spaces.
What makes the Navi Mumbai airport design special?
Navi Mumbai International Airport's Terminal 1 is recognised for its lotus-inspired architecture and futuristic design, integrating technology, art, and functionality to create a world-class travel experience that reflects India's modern global ambitions.
What inspired the design of Guwahati's Terminal 2?
Terminal 2 at Guwahati's Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport draws inspiration from the 'Bamboo Orchid', incorporating biophilic design principles that celebrate northeast India's ecological and cultural heritage while ensuring sustainability and operational efficiency.
Which other airports were recognised alongside the Indian airports?
The other airports named in the 'World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026' list are located in Guangzhou (China), Frankfurt am Main (Germany), Kandal Stueng (Cambodia), Pittsburgh (United States), and San Diego (United States).
