The Jewar Airport construction has become the cornerstone of infrastructure development in Northern India, promising to shape the aviation landscape of the National Capital Region. With the primary runway and terminal building now structurally complete, the focus has shifted toward DGCA approvals and final safety trials.
This article provides an exhaustive deep dive into the Jewar Airport construction status, exploring every facet from technical specifications to the socio-economic impact on nearby regions like Noida and Greater Noida. Whether you are an investor, a frequent flyer, or a resident of the NCR, understanding the scale and scope of this project is essential as it enters its operational phase.
What Is Jewar Airport and Why Is It Being Built Near Delhi?
Jewar International Airport, also known as the Noida International Airport (IATA: DXN), is a massive greenfield aviation project located approximately 72 kilometers from New Delhi. It is being developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and is envisioned to become India’s largest airport upon full completion. The airport is designed with a digital-first approach, focusing on seamless passenger movement and sustainable operations.
Why Delhi–NCR needs a second international airport
The primary driver behind this project is the saturation of IGI Airport in Delhi. By the mid-2020s, Delhi’s existing airport was approaching its maximum structural capacity for passenger handling. Jewar Airport serves as a secondary hub that ensures the National Capital Region can continue to grow as a global business and tourism destination without the bottleneck of limited air connectivity.
Strategic importance of Jewar Airport for India
Beyond just air travel, the strategic importance of this airport lies in its ability to create a multi-modal logistics hub. It connects the Yamuna Expressway, the Eastern Peripheral Expressway, and upcoming metro and High-Speed Rail links. This makes it a vital node for the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, enhancing India’s global competitiveness in exports and manufacturing.
What Is the Current Status of Jewar Airport Construction?
As we step into January 2026, the Jewar Airport construction status is officially at 90% completion for Phase 1. Most of the heavy civil engineering work, including the primary runway and the skeletal structure of Terminal 1, has been finished. The site is currently buzzing with activity related to interior fit-outs, electronic system integration, and the final testing of baggage handling units.
How much work is completed so far
Detailed reports from Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL) indicate that the Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower is fully standing and equipped with the necessary navigation hardware. The runway surfacing is complete, and the calibration of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) has been successful. The main passenger terminal has seen the completion of its glass facade and roofing.
On-the-ground progress update
On-the-ground updates reveal that the surrounding road network connecting the airport to the Yamuna Expressway is now operational for construction and logistics vehicles. The internal power substations are live, and the water treatment plants are undergoing trial runs. The security perimeter, including high-tech surveillance systems, is being handed over to the CISF for final operational deployment.
Jewar Airport Construction Latest News and Official Updates
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently announced in the State Assembly that the inauguration is scheduled for January 2026. The government has fast-tracked all pending administrative hurdles to ensure that the Prime Minister can officially open the facility. Financial provisions have also been made for the initial maintenance and early-stage operations of the local connectivity links.
Latest construction milestones
One of the most significant recent milestones was the successful test flight conducted in late 2025, which verified the runway’s integrity and the tower’s communication protocols. Additionally, the fuel farm area has been certified safe, and the first batch of ground handling equipment has arrived at the site. The Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE) is currently being installed at check-in counters.
Updates from project developers
Zurich Airport International AG, the lead developer, has expressed satisfaction with the pace of work despite previous weather-related delays. They have confirmed that the airport will start with a limited domestic schedule before scaling up. Collaboration with Tata Projects, the main EPC contractor, continues to ensure that the finishing touches meet international Swiss standards of quality.
Jewar Airport Construction Timeline (Phase-Wise Explained)
The physical Jewar Airport construction officially commenced in June 2022 following the foundation stone laying ceremony by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2021. Despite the challenges posed by the tail end of the pandemic and monsoon seasons, the project has moved from a barren landscape to a world-class facility in less than four years.
Phase 1 construction details
Phase 1 is the most critical stage, covering approximately 1,334 hectares. It includes the development of one runway, one terminal building with a capacity of 12 million passengers annually, and a cargo hub. This phase is what is currently being prepared for the January 2026 launch. It sets the foundation for all future growth and defines the architectural language of the airport.
Phase 2, Phase 3, and Phase 4 expansion plans
The future phases will expand the airport into a global behemoth. Phase 2 will add a second runway and increase capacity to 30 million passengers. By Phase 4, the airport is expected to have six runways and multiple terminals, handling over 70 million passengers per year. These phases are planned to roll out over the next two decades, with land for Phase 2 already under the acquisition process.
Expected completion date of Jewar Airport
While Phase 1 opens in January 2026, the full completion of all four phases is projected for 2040-2050. However, each phase is designed to be operational as soon as it is built, meaning the airport will be a “living” project that continues to grow while serving millions of travelers.
Who Is Building Jewar Airport? (Construction Companies Involved)
The primary contract for the Jewar Airport construction was awarded to Tata Projects Limited. They are responsible for the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) of the terminal, runway, and all supporting landside and airside infrastructure. Their reputation for handling large-scale infrastructure makes them the ideal lead contractor.
Role of Zurich Airport International
Zurich Airport International AG is the concessionaire for the project. They won the bid to design, build, and operate the airport for a 40-year period. Their role is to bring Swiss precision and global operational expertise to Jewar, ensuring that the airport functions as efficiently as those in Europe or North America.
Indian contractors and joint-venture partners
In addition to Tata Projects, several other Indian firms are involved as subcontractors for specialized tasks. These include companies specializing in lighting, HVAC systems, and IT infrastructure. The project also involves Noida International Airport Limited (NIAL), a joint venture of the UP government and the Noida and Greater Noida authorities.
Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model explained
The PPP model used here involves the government providing the land and regulatory support, while the private partner (Zurich Airport) brings the capital investment and management skills. This model ensures that the project does not rely solely on taxpayer money and benefits from the efficiency of the private sector.
Jewar Airport Runway Construction Status
Initially, the airport will open with one runway in Phase 1. However, the master plan is incredibly ambitious, calling for a total of six runways eventually. This would make it the airport with the most runways in India, surpassing the current four runways at IGI Delhi.
Runway length and technical specifications
The first runway is 3,900 meters long and 60 meters wide. It is designed to handle the world’s largest passenger aircraft, including the Airbus A380. The runway is equipped with Category III (CAT III) lighting, allowing planes to land safely even in the dense winter fog common in the North Indian plains.
Current runway construction progress
The runway construction is 100% complete. The final layers of high-grade bitumen have been cured, and the markings are visible. Recent inspections by the Aviation Safety teams have confirmed that the runway meets all international friction and drainage requirements.
Jewar Airport Terminal Construction Update
The Terminal 1 design is inspired by the ghats of Varanasi, blending traditional Indian aesthetics with modern functionalism. It features a giant open courtyard that brings in natural light and ventilation. In its first phase, it will handle 12 million passengers per year, with a focus on quick check-in and minimal walking distances.
Domestic and international terminal plan
While the airport will eventually have separate terminals, Phase 1 features an integrated terminal. This means both domestic and international passengers will use the same building, though they will be separated by distinct security and customs zones. This maximizes efficiency during the early years of operation.
Terminal construction progress status
Interior work is currently the main focus. The baggage carousels are being tested, and the immigration counters are being installed. The “retail street” within the terminal, designed to showcase local handicrafts and global brands, is taking shape. Aerobridge installation is also nearly finished, with 10 bridges ready for use.
Jewar Airport Construction Cost and Total Project Budget
The total estimated cost for all four phases of the project is approximately ₹29,650 crore. This makes it one of the most expensive and high-value infrastructure projects currently active in India. The scale of investment reflects the government’s confidence in the region’s economic potential.
Phase-wise investment breakdown
| Phase | Estimated Cost (approx.) | Capacity (MPPA) |
| Phase 1 | ₹10,050 Crore | 12 Million |
| Phase 2 | ₹5,900 Crore | 30 Million |
| Phase 3 | ₹8,400 Crore | 50 Million |
| Phase 4 | ₹10,500 Crore | 70 Million |
The funding is a mix of equity and debt. Zurich Airport International is the primary equity investor, having committed substantial capital. The project is also supported by loans from a consortium of Indian public sector banks, led by the State Bank of India (SBI).
Land Acquisition for Jewar Airport Construction
Over 5,000 hectares of land have been identified for the entire project. For Phase 1, approximately 1,334 hectares were acquired from local farmers. The land acquisition process for Phase 2, involving another 1,365 hectares, is currently being finalized by the district administration.
Several villages, including Rohi, Parohi, Kishorepur, Dayanatpur, and Ranhera, have been part of the acquisition map. The transition of land from agricultural to industrial use has been a monumental task, requiring extensive dialogue between the government and the rural community
The Uttar Pradesh government has followed a Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) policy. Affected families have been provided with monetary compensation significantly above market rates and relocated to developed townships like Jewar Bangar, which feature schools, parks, and paved roads.
Technology Used in Jewar Airport Construction
The project utilizes BIM (Building Information Modelling) to create a digital twin of the airport before physical construction. This allows engineers to detect clashes in utility lines and optimize the use of materials, significantly reducing waste and time.
Smart and digital construction systems
From drones for site monitoring to IoT-enabled heavy machinery, the Jewar Airport construction site is a showcase of modern technology. Digital check-ins for workers and automated supply chain management have helped keep the project on track despite its immense complexity.
Green and Sustainable Construction at Jewar Airport
The airport is aiming for LEED Gold certification. This is being achieved through the use of recycled steel, low-carbon concrete, and high-performance glass that reduces the need for artificial cooling. The construction process itself prioritizes the use of locally sourced materials to reduce transport emissions.
To ensure zero liquid discharge, the airport features an extensive rainwater harvesting system. Large holding ponds have been constructed to capture monsoon runoff, which will be treated and reused for landscaping and cooling towers, preserving the local groundwater table.
The rooftop of the terminal and several open areas will be covered with solar panels. The goal is to make Jewar a Net Zero Carbon airport. It will also feature charging stations for electric ground support equipment and public EVs, promoting a green ecosystem.
Environmental Clearances and Legal Approvals
The project underwent a rigorous Environmental Impact Assessment to study its effect on local flora and fauna. Measures have been taken to mitigate noise pollution and ensure that the flight paths do not disrupt sensitive ecological zones in the vicinity.
Clearances were obtained from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The project team has committed to compensatory afforestation, planting thousands of trees in designated zones to offset the land cleared for the runways.
During construction, dust suppression systems and smog guns were used to maintain air quality. The airport’s design also includes advanced waste management systems to ensure that no untreated waste enters the local environment.
Challenges and Delays in Jewar Airport Construction
The project faced scrutiny regarding its proximity to the Dhanauri Wetlands. Developers had to ensure that the construction would not impact the habitat of migratory birds. Navigating these environmental regulations required detailed planning and periodic revisions to the site layout.
Material supply and manpower issues
Global supply chain disruptions in the early 2020s occasionally slowed the arrival of specialized components like automated baggage systems. However, the use of indigenous suppliers for bulk materials like cement and steel helped mitigate these risks.
Weather and execution delays
Heavy monsoons in the past years caused temporary halts in earthwork. Despite this, the workforce of over 7,000 personnel worked in multiple shifts to recover lost time. The initial target of September 2024 was moved to January 2026 to ensure all safety certifications were in place.
Jobs and Employment Generated by Jewar Airport Construction
The Jewar Airport construction phase has provided direct employment to thousands of skilled engineers, architects, and laborers. It has also supported indirect jobs in the logistics, catering, and security sectors that service the massive construction site.
Local youths have been trained in specialized construction roles through government-backed skill development centers. This has ensured that the local population benefits directly from the project, moving from traditional farming to technical roles in infrastructure development.
Once operational, the airport is expected to create over 100,000 jobs. These range from airline ground staff and security personnel to roles in the massive retail and hospitality zones planned within the airport city.
Impact of Jewar Airport Construction on Noida and Greater Noida
The “Airport Effect” has sent property prices soaring in Sectors 18, 20, and 22D of the Yamuna Expressway. Investors are flocking to buy residential plots and commercial spaces, anticipating high demand for housing from airport employees and business travelers.
The Yamuna Expressway Authority (YEIDA) has allotted land for a Medical Device Park, a Toy Park, and a Data Centre Hub near the airport. These industries rely on the air connectivity provided by Jewar to export their products globally.
When Will Jewar Airport Construction Be Completed?
The official opening date for commercial operations is late January 2026. This follows the successful completion of all infrastructure and the receipt of the aerodrome license from the DGCA.
Throughout December 2025, the airport conducted operational readiness trials. This involved “dummy” passengers checking in, baggage being processed through the belts, and aircraft taxiing to test the ground lighting systems.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is the final authority. Their inspectors are currently on-site conducting audits of the safety manuals, firefighting equipment, and navigation aids. Once the license is issued, airlines like IndiGo and Air India will begin their scheduled services.
What Will Happen After Jewar Airport Construction Is Finished?
The first few weeks after the launch will be a “soft opening” phase. This allows the operators to fine-tune the systems under real-world conditions before the passenger volume scales up to full capacity.
Initially, flights will connect Jewar to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. This will provide immediate relief to IGI Airport and offer a closer alternative for travelers from Noida and Agra.
International operations are expected to commence within 6-12 months of the domestic launch. This timeline allows for the setup of immigration and customs staff and the completion of bilateral air service agreements with foreign carriers.
What to Expect from Jewar Airport Construction in the Coming Years
The Jewar Airport construction journey is a testament to India’s infrastructure ambitions. What was once a vast stretch of farmland is now a world-class aviation gateway. As operations begin in January 2026, the focus will shift from civil engineering to service excellence. For the region of Noida and the state of Uttar Pradesh, this airport is more than just a place for planes to land; it is the engine of a new economic era. Expect the surrounding landscape to transform rapidly as the airport scales up to its full six-runway potential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As of January 2026, the construction of Phase 1 is over 90% complete, with the runway and terminal building ready for operations.
The airport is being developed by Zurich Airport International AG as the concessionaire, with Tata Projects serving as the lead construction contractor.
The total projected cost for all four phases of the Noida International Airport project is approximately ₹29,650 crore.
