Team News Riveting
New Delhi, December 9
The first validation flight successfully landed today at the Noida International Airport (NIA), marking a significant milestone in its journey toward operational readiness.
The momentous occasion was graced by Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, Member of Parliament Gautam Buddha Nagar Dr Mahesh Sharma, and Jewar MLA Dhirendra Singh.
Operated by IndiGo, the flight touched down in the afternoon, receiving a ceremonial water cannon salute and a big round of applause, particularly from the site workers who have been integral to the project’s progress. Senior officials including Secretary Ministry of Civil Aviation, Vumlunmang Vualnam, Chairman Airport Authority of India Vipin Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary Uttar Pradesh S P Goyal were also present on the occasion.
Naidu thanked the farmers of Jewar for their support, which was crucial in making the airport a reality and enabling Uttar Pradesh to have its 17th operational airport.
During his visit, the Minister conducted a review meeting with the airport operator and directed them to adhere strictly to project deadlines to ensure the airport becomes operational by April 2025. He stressed the need for Jewar Airport to deliver services that set new benchmarks, with infrastructure that is truly world-class and incorporates elements of local culture and craftsmanship.
He also reviewed the progress of connectivity plans, including road, rail, and metro links, and discussed future high-speed rail connectivity, which could integrate the airport with the broader regional and national transportation network. The Minister paid special attention to sustainability measures, such as the use of solar energy to power the airport, reiterating the government’s commitment to eco-friendly infrastructure development.
The Minister underlined the immense economic potential of the project, which is expected to create thousands of jobs, boost tourism, and drive regional development in Western Uttar Pradesh. He expressed his gratitude to the site workers, acknowledging their hard work and dedication in bringing to life what will be Asia’s largest airport.
The Minister also applauded the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, under whose leadership India is experiencing unprecedented infrastructural development, and the stewardship of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, whose efforts have ensured the swift execution of this landmark project. The Minister extended his best wishes to the Noida International Airport team and thanked IndiGo for operating the validation flight that set the stage for NIA’s operational debut in 2025.
