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The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (LGBI) Airport in Guwahati, managed by the Adani Group, is set to open its new terminal by next year. Chief Airport Officer (CAO) Utpal Baruah shared that the initial target to complete the terminal building was December 2024. However, the project faced a delay of about four months due to a design change to include more facilities in the building. "We want to make it the most effective terminal in the country," Baruah told PTI.
The new terminal, developed at a total cost of over Rs 2,000 crore, will be almost six times bigger than the current facility. It will have a capacity of 13.1 million passengers per annum (mppa) compared to the existing capacity of 3.4 mppa.
Background and Development
In August 2020, the Union Cabinet approved leasing the Guwahati airport to Adani Enterprises for 50 years for its operation, management, and development. The Airport Authority of India (AAI) was developing the new terminal before the management was transferred to Adani in October 2021.
"We have recently prepared the master plan of the terminal and shared it with all concerned," said Baruah. "In the first phase, we are going to have a brand new integrated terminal building, comparable with any global one."
Investment and Infrastructure
Out of the total Rs 2,000 crore investment, about Rs 1,600 crore is being spent on the terminal building. The remaining funds will be used to construct a new taxiway and expand the runway. Upon completion of the parallel taxiway, the runway capacity of LGBI Airport will increase from 18 to 34 air traffic movements.
Enhancements and Future Plans
The airport aims to have an approach lighting system that will reduce the visibility requirement for pilots from 1,300 meters to just 550 meters. Future plans also include a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility, aerocity, helipad, and various allied services.
Vision and Goals
Baruah outlined four main visions for LGBI Airport:
1. Establish connections with all 16 airports of Northeast India and major cities across the country.
2. Develop LGBI Airport as an international hub for Southeast Asia.
3. Develop a cargo market in the region and introduce air transportation for perishable goods.
4. Boost the tourism sector in the Northeast.
Baruah emphasized the close relationship between tourism and air transportation. "We want LGBI Airport to be a catalyst for the development of the tourism sector in the Northeast," he said.
With the completion of the new terminal by April 2025, LGBI Airport in Guwahati aims to significantly enhance its capacity and infrastructure, positioning itself as a key aviation hub in the region. The project's completion will bring new opportunities for connectivity, economic growth, and tourism in Northeast India.
