As the launch of Noida International Airport (NIA) draws closer, Christoph Schnellmann, CEO, Noida International Airport, in an exclusive interview with Financialexpress.com, informed that the airport is expected to become a key stop on the upcoming Delhi-Varanasi high-speed rail corridor. Schnellmann also highlighted that “the first phase of development will have one runway and one terminal, with a capacity to accommodate annual traffic of 12 million passengers. However, after the completion of all four development phases, the airport will have the capacity to cater to 70 million passengers annually.”
In this interview, Schnellmann shed light on the exciting developments, operational strategies, and long-term plans for the airport which is set to transform air travel for residents of Delhi-NCR and western Uttar Pradesh. Edited excerpts:
Which destinations is Noida International Airport prioritising, domestic and international?
As we are inching closer to the start of airport operations, we anticipate a robust network of flights connecting Noida International Airport to major Indian metros, as well as a variety of regional and international destinations. We’re working closely with airlines to establish a comprehensive route map that will offer travelers convenient access to a wide range of locations across the country and beyond. Airlines are currently finalising their routes and schedules, considering factors such as passenger demand, optimal slot allocation, and aircraft availability. This is a work in progress, and we will announce the details as soon as they’re confirmed, closer to our opening date.
Which international carriers or domestic low-cost airlines have committed to operating from the airport?
We have partnered with IndiGo, which will be the launch carrier for the airport. Additionally, we have formed a strategic partnership with Akasa Air, which will operate both domestic and international routes from NIA. Airlines from across the Middle East and Southeast Asia have shown strong interest in NIA and we will be able to share more details once firmed up.
What cargo operations are planned for the airport, can you elaborate on capacity and features?
We have awarded the concession for a Multi-Modal Cargo Hub (MMCH) to Air India SATS (AISATS). Construction of the MMCH began in September last year and is actively progressing. Covering over 80 acres of land, the MMCH will serve as a vital gateway for a wide range of cargo needs, including domestic and international shipments, express cargo, and transshipment. It will cater to the diverse industries and businesses across NCR and Uttar Pradesh.
In its first phase, the hub will have an annual capacity of approximately 200,000 tonnes, with plans to expand to 2 million tonnes in the final phase.
How will Noida Airport ensure seamless travel between itself and IGI Airport?
Connectivity is integral for an infrastructure like an airport. Our strategic location adjacent to the Yamuna Expressway provides unparalleled road access to Delhi NCR, Noida, and key centers in Western Uttar Pradesh. This allows for convenient travel times – approximately 45 minutes to Noida, a mere 25 minutes to Greater Noida, and even a trip to the iconic Taj Mahal can be accomplished in just two hours.
Beyond private vehicles, we’re actively partnering to ensure convenient and affordable public transport options, including bus and shuttle services connecting key locations. Looking ahead, future high-speed rail connections between Delhi and Varanasi may include a stop adjacent to the airport, solidifying NIA’s position as a key transportation hub.
What measures are being taken to address last-mile connectivity for passengers?
We understand the importance of convenient and reliable transportation options for our passengers. The airport’s strategic location, adjacent to the Yamuna Expressway, offers excellent road access to Noida, Delhi NCR, and key centers in Western UP.
From day one, a wide range of mobility services will be available to suit every budget, including intercity and long-haul buses, shuttles, taxis, and ride-sharing options. Our investment in supporting infrastructure, such as ample parking, will ensure a smooth and efficient passenger experience as traffic volumes increase. Through our recent partnership with Mahindra Logistics Mobility, we will introduce a premium, all-electric taxi service with convenient pickup and drop-off points directly at the arrival and departure curbs.
How is Noida Airport preparing for inclement weather, especially during winter fog?
Last year, we completed the calibration of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI). The ILS is a radio navigation system that provides precise guidance to pilots during approach and landing, especially in low-visibility conditions.
The system consists of two main components: The Localizer, which helps align the aircraft with the runway centerline, providing horizontal guidance; and the Glide Path Antenna, which offers vertical guidance to the aircraft, ensuring a safe and smooth descent.
The ILS is a critical safety system that enables pilots to land safely even in reduced visibility due to fog, rain, or other adverse weather conditions. While specialised equipment like the ILS minimises delays, flight operations are ultimately subject to weather conditions and safety protocols.
What key infrastructure developments are underway to ensure smooth airport operations and passenger amenities?
We have achieved significant milestones, particularly in curating the passenger experience at the airport. We’ve partnered with Travel Food Services (TFS) to offer diverse multi-cuisine dining options and a world-class lounge featuring both premium and luxury zones. The lounges will offer an exceptional experience with live interactive food stations, a wide range of buffet options, an experiential cocktail bar, and a spa for relaxation services. The interiors will convey sophistication, warmth, and elegance, providing a haven of comfort amidst busy travel schedules. The lounge will also offer a “Luxury Zone” – which will offer exclusive amenities to provide an enhanced experience to the passengers.
Additionally, HMSHost India will operate a variety of restaurants and cafes within the terminal, ensuring a blend of local and global flavours. Customers can look forward to an exciting culinary experience, with a comprehensive range of specially curated options that evoke a sense of place, celebrating the diverse and rich culinary traditions of the region. These outlets will provide an aspirational yet affordable dining experience, offering a sense of novelty and freshness.
Further solidifying our commitment to a superior travel experience, we’ve awarded the retail and duty-free concession to a consortium of Heinemann Asia Pacific and BWC Forwarders, guaranteeing a world-class shopping experience for our passengers.
Additionally, the airport has also signed a 30-year concession agreement with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) to operate fuel stations at three key locations within the airport premises. The agreement includes the establishment and operation of three fuel stations: one near the main western access road for passengers, one airside for airport operations and one near the eastern cargo precinct.
Apart from this, EV charging infrastructure will be available at the airport for both airside operations and for passengers.
How is Noida Airport incorporating eco-friendly practices into its design?
We are committed to developing a world-class airport with a strong focus on environmentally conscious development and infrastructure. Sustainability has been a key consideration in the airport’s design from the outset, influencing the selection of our planning and design teams, construction partners, and concessionaires. Minimal environmental impact has also been a priority during construction. Over 580 trees have been carefully transplanted, and the airport will feature more than 133 hectares of green space.
In the terminal, passive design measures such as natural lighting, natural ventilation, and glare protection will enhance the passenger experience while reducing CO2 emissions and energy costs. Beyond the design, NIA is incorporating a range of sustainable technologies, including harnessing solar and wind energy, rainwater harvesting, on-site waste and sewage treatment, EV charging infrastructure, and electric ground support equipment.
What specific measures are being taken to ensure the April 2025 timeline is met without any further delays? Could you shed light on the reasons behind the missed deadlines?
We have come a long way since we bid for the project in 2019. The Hon’ble Prime Minister lay the foundation stone for the airport in November 2021 and our EPC partner, Tata Projects Limited broke ground in June of 2022. Noida International Airport has made exceptional progress over the past two and a half years since the commencement of construction activities despite the Covid 19 pandemic in the early stage of the project. We are working closely with all stakeholders to keep the pace of construction activities and preparations for operational readiness high. We remain committed to our goal of delivering a sustainable and world-class airport for Delhi-NCR and Uttar Pradesh.