GMR Airports expands Nagpur Airport capacity to 30 million passengers

GMR Airports Limited (GMR AERO) has announced a comprehensive, multi-phase modernisation and expansion plan for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, Maharashtra, aiming to strengthen its position as India’s leading private airport infrastructure company and enhance its long-term growth portfolio.

The announcement follows the completion of the airport’s privatisation process, with MIL transferring approximately 1,000 hectares of land to GNIAL on June 25, 2026, and declaring the Commercial Operations Date (COD). This transition enables GNIAL to commence operations and pursue long-term development plans for the airport.

This acquisition notably expands GMR Airports’ footprint in India’s growing aviation sector. It aligns with the company’s strategy to develop airport assets with significant potential for passenger, cargo, and commercial growth.

The first phase of development, planned over the next eight years, focuses on enhancing passenger experience and expanding operational capacity, with the goal of establishing Nagpur as a leading aviation and logistics gateway for Vidarbha and the surrounding region. Immediate upgrades at the existing airport will begin with an initial investment of about Rs 300 crore. The programme is designed to create a future-ready airport ecosystem, with emphasis on operational excellence, advanced technology, sustainability, and world-class passenger amenities.

The phased expansion aims to increase the annual passenger handling capacity from the current three million to 30 million during the 30-year concession period, with potential to further increase capacity to 50 million passengers per year within the allocated land. Utilising Nagpur’s strategic central location and the larger MIHAN ecosystem, the airport is also planned as a major cargo and logistics hub, targeting a long-term cargo handling capacity of 150,000 metric tonnes annually.

The transformation will prioritise a seamless, efficient, and convenient travel experience by implementing modern facilities aligned with global standards. Sustainability will be central, with initiatives including increased use of green energy, rainwater harvesting, environmentally responsible infrastructure, and extensive landscaping.

Of the 1,000 hectares transferred to GNIAL, nearly 100 hectares are designated for city-side development or Aerocity, expected to generate commercial opportunities, employment, and regional economic advancement.

GBS Raju, Chairman of GMR Airports, stated, “At GMR Airports, we believe airports are much more than transportation infrastructure – they are powerful enablers of economic growth, regional development and social progress. The transformation of Nagpur Airport reflects our long-term vision of creating world-class aviation ecosystems that strengthen connectivity and contribute meaningfully to India’s growth journey. As the country continues its infrastructure-led transformation, we remain committed to building future-ready airports that serve as engines of nation-building while delivering exceptional experiences for passengers and communities alike.”

SGK Kishore, Executive Director and Chief Innovation Officer of GMR Group, said, “Our vision for Nagpur Airport is to make it a future-ready, sustainable aviation hub that enhances connectivity. This expansion will be a step towards offering a smarter, seamless, and more comfortable travel experience, while reducing our environmental footprint and building resilient infrastructure for the future. As India continues to grow, we remain committed to developing world-class airports that support progress and sustainability–and we look forward to working together with all stakeholders to shape a greener and more inclusive future.”

Srikanth Bhandarkar, CEO of Nagpur Airport, added, “This expansion is more than an infrastructure upgrade – it is a transformation of the airport experience. Our vision is to create a future-ready gateway that offers efficiency, convenience and comfort to every traveller while contributing to Nagpur’s growth story. We are committed to delivering world-class aviation infrastructure that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of passengers, partners and stakeholders.”

The development at Nagpur further consolidates GMR Airports’ standing as a leading airport developer and operator in India, with a proven record of managing some of the country’s largest aviation gateways. The project exemplifies the company’s strategy of creating integrated airport ecosystems that combine passenger growth, cargo development, commercial real estate, and non-aeronautical revenue opportunities.

This roadmap affirms GMR Airports’ dedication to next-generation aviation infrastructure and regional economic development. The project is expected to boost trade, tourism, and investment, enhance connectivity, and reinforce Nagpur’s strategic position at the heart of India by transforming the airport into a modern aviation and logistics hub.