Nagpur, India — In a significant development for Indian aviation infrastructure, the GMR Group, one of India’s leading airport operators, is poised to take over the management and operations of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. This move is expected to transform the airport into a modern aviation hub, enhancing regional connectivity and accelerating economic growth in Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region.
The GMR Group, known for operating world-class airports in Delhi, Hyderabad, and overseas locations like Cebu (Philippines) and Crete (Greece), is now preparing to bring its expertise and international best practices to Nagpur. This development follows years of procedural delays and renewed momentum in public-private partnership initiatives under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
The project will be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, wherein GMR will take a majority stake in the MIHAN India Ltd. (MIL)—a joint venture between Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI). GMR will be responsible for modernizing infrastructure, increasing passenger capacity, improving cargo handling, and enhancing the overall passenger experience at the airport.
Industry experts believe this takeover will not only catalyze growth in passenger and cargo traffic but also generate employment and attract significant investments in the Multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport at Nagpur (MIHAN) project. Nagpur, located strategically at the heart of India, is expected to benefit greatly from this move, both in terms of domestic aviation activity and as a potential cargo and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) hub.
GMR officials have hinted at long-term development plans including terminal expansion, enhanced cargo facilities, commercial property development, and integration with logistics and aerospace activities within MIHAN.
This comes at a time when India is witnessing an aviation boom, with tier-2 and tier-3 cities seeing increased air traffic and infrastructure investments under the UDAN scheme. GMR’s entry into Nagpur is expected to further align the city with national and global aviation trends.
As per early reports, the formal handover process is in its final stages, and an official announcement is expected shortly. The deal is seen as a strategic win for GMR, which continues to strengthen its position as a global airport developer and operator.
Stay tuned to Aviation Nexus for exclusive updates on this landmark development and what it means for India’s aviation future.
