No constructions or tree plantations are permitted within a 20-kilometre radius of the upcoming Noida International Airport without a ‘Height Clearance’ or ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NOC) from the Airports Authority of India (AAI), officials stated.

On Friday, the Noida International Airport issued an advisory to real estate developers, local authorities, and the general public, urging strict compliance with height restrictions as per regulations laid down by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Kiren Jain, Chief Operating Officer of Noida International Airport, emphasised that this requirement is not a procedural formality but a critical step to protect flight operations and navigation systems from potential obstructions. “As Noida International Airport nears commissioning, it is imperative for all stakeholders to observe height restrictions to ensure aviation safety and operational efficiency,” said Mr Jain.

The advisory instructed that prior to any vertical construction or planting within the 20-kilometre zone, concerned parties must consult local authorities. These authorities will refer to the Colour-Coded Zoning Map (CCZM) issued by AAI to determine permissible height limits. Applicants proposing developments that exceed these limits must apply for a Height NOC via the AAI’s NOCAS portal.

The regulations fall under GSR 751(E) – Ministry of Civil Aviation (Height Restrictions for Safeguarding of Aircraft Operations) Rules, 2015 – which prohibits any unapproved activity within safeguarded airspace. Violations pose significant risks to Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) and compromise the functionality of navigation infrastructure, thereby endangering flight safety.

To enforce these rules, the Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions caused by Buildings and Trees) Rules, 2023, authorise legal action including demolition of unauthorised structures and penalties as per the Aircraft Rules.

All stakeholders—including developers, landowners, and residents—are strongly advised to halt any unauthorised developments and seek the requisite NOC from AAI immediately. Ensuring timely compliance is crucial to supporting safe, efficient, and obstruction-free operations at the upcoming Noida International Airport.