Noida, 12th March: Due to the non-completion of the Noida International Airport within the stipulated time, the developer company Yamuna International Airport Pvt. Ltd. has decided to take over the construction of the airport. Ltd. (Yapal) has clarified the position. The airport is expected to get an aerodrome license by May. The prospects of starting commercial operations from Noida International Airport in April have faded.
Noida International Airport Ltd. had planned to commence commercial operations following the aerodrome license approval in April, with three flights scheduled from day one. However, during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on March 10, the inauguration date was delayed. The Chief Minister expressed strong dissatisfaction with officials for failing to complete the airport’s construction on time, despite plans to launch 25 domestic flights, three international flights, and two cargo services.
After this, the statement issued by Yapal put an end to the possibility of starting the commercial operation of the airport in April. The Noida airport is likely to get an aerodrome license in May. The work of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in the Air Traffic Control tower is at an advanced stage. Along with this, the construction of the passenger terminal is in progress. Commercial operations from the airport will start with domestic air services. After a few months, international flights will begin. Talks are being held with the central and state governments in this regard.
The contract between the state government and the developer company for Noida International Airport outlined a strict timeline for the completion of construction, with a penalty clause of Rs 10 lakh per day for delays. Initially, the airport was slated for completion by September 2024, but the deadline was extended to December 2024. With a Rs 10 lakh per day penalty for delays, there is growing pressure to speed up the construction of Noida International Airport.
The delayed progress has raised concerns about its timely completion, crucial for regional connectivity and economic growth. Authorities are focused on resolving these issues, with further discussions between state and central governments aimed at ensuring the airport becomes operational without further setbacks.