The Rajkot International Airport (RIA), inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi over a year ago, remains under construction. Despite the initial fanfare, the airport has not yet begun operations for international flights, with no airline submitting proposals for such services, according to a report by the source.

RIA authorities have indicated that the airport is likely to receive its permanent terminal in August. Currently, it handles an average of 10 domestic flights daily.

"Airlines have not made any proposal for international flights. The terminal building will start with domestic flight operations," stated RIA Director Diganta Borah.

Current Operations and Future Plans:

- Temporary Terminal: The existing temporary terminal has eight check-in counters. - Permanent Terminal: Expected in August, it will feature 36 check-in counters and the capacity to accommodate 2,800 passengers per hour, a significant increase from the temporary terminal's capacity of 400 passengers per hour. In comparison, the old Rajkot Airport could handle only 200 passengers per hour.

Inauguration and Development:

PM Modi inaugurated Gujarat?s first greenfield airport near Rajkot last July. The project, developed at a cost of Rs 14.05 billion, is located in Hirasar village, approximately 30 kilometres from Rajkot, covering an area of 1,025.50 hectares (2,534 acres).

- Runway: The airport features a runway measuring 3.04 km in length and 45 meters in width, capable of accommodating up to 14 planes simultaneously. - Apron: The apron spans 50,800 square meters. - Passenger Terminal: The terminal covers 23,000 square meters, with a capacity to manage 1,280 travellers per hour during peak times.

(Source: FE)