The Noida International Airport at Jewar, envisioned as a major aviation hub offering world-class facilities to the rapidly growing National Capital Region, continues to face uncertainty over its launch timeline. Despite repeated announcements, the airport has missed several operational deadlines, leaving residents and stakeholders still awaiting clarity on when flights will finally take off, according to The New Indian Express.
Earlier this month, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu indicated that the airport would become operational by February. However, ground-level assessments suggest that significant work remains unfinished both inside and outside the airport premises, making the proposed timeline increasingly unrealistic, according to the report.
Construction Progress but Deadlines Slip
The first phase of the project, estimated to cost around ₹6,800 crore, was initially slated to open in September 2024. An airport spokesperson has maintained that there has been no escalation in project costs despite a delay of nearly 17 months so far.
While construction activity is visible across the sprawling airport complex—with foundations being laid for multiple structures—sources familiar with the project told The New Indian Express that the pace may still not be sufficient to meet the revised target.
“It is not possible to start the airport even in March. A lot of work is yet to be completed,” said a person involved in the airport activity to the The New Indian Express
Regulatory Clearances Still Pending
Before commercial operations can begin, the airport must secure mandatory approvals from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Officials indicate that these regulatory processes are still underway and could take additional time.
“A BCAS team visited the airport in December last year, and its officials are said to be visiting the airport frequently, but it has not given the security clearance yet. Only after the BCAS gives its nod, the DGCA will give its consent,” a senior official said.
BCAS officials declined to comment when contacted on the status of the clearance.
Responding to the concerns, an airport spokesperson said the authorities were working in close coordination with both BCAS and DGCA to complete the final stages of licensing and security approvals. “Following these key prerequisites, the start of commercial operations will be planned in coordination with airlines and partners,” he said.