The first phase of construction of the Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport situated in Ayodhya was expected to be completed by August that year. It was stated that the airport would become a significant transit point for pilgrims from all over the world as the construction of the Ram Temple in the city neared its completion, with Indian airlines preparing for flights to Ayodhya. International passengers would have the option to reach Ayodhya through codeshare flights from Delhi and Mumbai. Rajeev Kulshrestha, the GM Project EIC of the Airports Authority of India, revealed that the cost of the first phase of the project would be approximately Rs 3.3 billion. The completion of phase-I would initiate flight calibration and operations for domestic purposes. He explained that the primary focus of phase-I involved the development of airside facilities, including the widening and expansion of the runway. Once the first phase was finished, the airport would have the capability to accommodate four Airbus A320 aircraft. The initial phase of construction would encompass the establishment of a new interim-terminal building covering an area of 6,250 sq m. During peak hours, the terminal would be capable of handling 300 passengers, with an annual capacity of 600,000 passengers. The terminal's architectural design would showcase murals and artwork inspired by the Ramayana. Additionally, it was proposed that the roof of the terminal would be adorned with 'Shikharas' or rising towers, while decorative columns would depict significant events from the Ramayana story. Furthermore, the terminal would consist of eight check-in counters, along with three conveyor belts—two in the arrival area and one in the departure area. Also read: Bagdogra Airport expansion set to begin soonHP cabinet okays land acquisition for Gaggal airport