Noida International Airport (NIA) in Jewar is expected to commence operations in December, after securing airside security clearance from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS)—a key step before receiving the aerodrome licence from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The project has seen several delays, with the last target being April 2025. Industry experts said the inauguration could take place between late November and early December, with commercial flights expected to begin four to six weeks thereafter.

The airport’s first phase will be equipped with CAT-III instrument landing systems, allowing safe operations during dense fog. Calibration and approvals are in progress, following which operations will begin with domestic and cargo services. Capacity is set to expand from 1.2 crore passengers annually to 3 crore as terminal facilities are upgraded, followed by the addition of a second runway and terminal in subsequent phases.

Authorities highlight that NIA’s open-field location could pose visibility challenges during winters until urban development expands in the surrounding region. The airport is expected to significantly boost North India’s aviation infrastructure and provide congestion relief for Delhi’s IGIA.