Mixed Defence And AAI Operations Examined For Hindon Airport

06 Jul 2026 CW Team

Hindon airport, 30 km from Delhi, remains severely underutilised. The airfield is owned by the Indian Air Force and does not permit operations after sunset, imposing severe restrictions on airline services. Airport sources indicated that mixed operations with the Airports Authority of India supplementing Defence operations are being explored.\n\nThe Airports Authority of India took over operational responsibilities on 11 October 2019 to kick-start the UDAAN regional connectivity scheme. Only two airlines operate and run between seven and eight flights daily from the field. The presence of just two parking bays for aircraft has long been a bottleneck.\n\nThe airport was built for Rs 466 million (mn). Patronage reduced after Air India Express pulled out on 30 March. Star Air serves Nanded, Adampur and Mundra while IndiGo connects to Navi Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Varanasi and Kolkata.\n\nDiscussions have considered whether the airport can be kept open after dark with AAI air traffic control overseeing night operations as the IAF reported a shortage of personnel for post-sunset duties. Officials argued that the location is strategic for residents of western Uttar Pradesh and for parts of Delhi. The airport director said plans are under way to increase parking bays from two to six and that multiple rounds of talks have been held with Defence. The IAF agreed in principle to provide a 270 m x 230 m plot for apron expansion following a survey and a formal submission of requirements.\n\nAuthorities have also requested permission to construct a road from the perimeter to the apron so that military activity is not hampered and have sought 6.5 acres for the purpose, with the state government responding positively. Officials noted that completion of the apron expansion and operational co-operation with AAI would improve utilisation of the facility. Talks are continuing between airport management, the Defence department and the State to finalise land transfer and operational arrangements. The discussions aim to unlock the airport's potential for regional connectivity and greater service frequency.

Infrastructure Urban

06 Jul 2026

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