The upcoming Dholera Greenfield International Airport in Gujarat is poised to be a flagship project in India’s aviation sector, developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). With an estimated cost of ₹1,305 crore, this greenfield airport is strategically located 80 km from Ahmedabad and 20 km from the Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR), ensuring optimal connectivity for passengers and cargo alike.
The airport will cover approximately 1,426 hectares and is expected to have an annual capacity of 50 million passengers once operational. It aims to serve as a major cargo hub, positioning itself as the second-largest in the region, following Ahmedabad Airport. This development aligns with the government’s vision of enhancing infrastructure and promoting economic growth through improved connectivity.
Construction is progressing in phases, with the work divided between two main contractors: Varaha Infra Ltd and Yashnand Engineers and Contractors Pvt Ltd. Phase 1 of the Dholera International Airport is anticipated to be completed by March 2026. The project includes the development of two runways, one measuring 3,200 meters and the other extending to 4,000 meters, capable of accommodating large aircraft, including those in the 4E category, which supports international operations and business travelers.
The construction of Part A, which has a budget of ₹636 crore, includes essential infrastructure such as a new runway (06L/24R), an apron, a fire station with multiple floors, a DVOR building, an isolation bay, and NAV AID buildings. It will also feature an extensive passenger terminal building, a cargo terminal, hotels, and retail shops, significantly enhancing the travel experience for passengers. As of September 2024, the foundation work for Part A is nearly completed, and structural work is underway on various site components.
Part B of the Dholera International Airport, awarded to Yashnand Engineers and Contractors Pvt Ltd, encompasses an area of 20,000 square meters. This section will feature an integrated passenger terminal with a basement and ground plus one upper floor, a technical block with three upper floors, an Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower with nine upper floors, a cargo complex, and an electrical substation. Part B has an estimated construction cost of ₹333 crore. As of September 2024, structural work for this section is advancing steadily, with approximately 25% of the overall progress completed.
The Dholera International Airport project represents a significant investment in India’s transport infrastructure, fostering regional development and boosting trade. The anticipated completion in 2026 will bring modern air travel facilities to Gujarat, creating numerous job opportunities and driving economic growth in the surrounding areas. As the project progresses, it reflects the commitment of the Indian government and AAI to enhance air connectivity and infrastructure, positioning Gujarat as a vital hub in the nation’s aviation landscape.
In conclusion, the Dholera Greenfield International Airport is set to transform air travel in Gujarat, offering state-of-the-art facilities and improved connectivity. With its strategic location and extensive capacity, the airport will not only enhance passenger travel experiences but also serve as a catalyst for economic development in the region. As construction continues, stakeholders and the local community eagerly await the operational launch of this monumental project.
