Noida International Airport has received its aerodrome licence from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), paving the way for the start of commercial operations.

The licence was issued under Rule 78 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937. It confirms that the airport complies with regulatory requirements covering operational procedures, safety systems, infrastructure, navigation equipment and emergency response arrangements set out in the civil aviation authority’s regulations.

The development follows a recent approval from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), which granted security clearance for domestic passenger services as well as domestic and international cargo operations. Airport officials said the approvals represent progress in preparations to begin operations.

Further regulatory steps remain before commercial flights can begin. The airport’s Aerodrome Security Programme is currently under review by BCAS. Once approved, the airport operator plans to coordinate with government agencies, airlines and service providers to set a timetable for inauguration and the start of scheduled flights.

Operational readiness activities are continuing under the airport’s Operational Readiness Activation and Transition (ORAT) programme, which tests systems, procedures and staff preparedness prior to opening.

Receiving the aerodrome license is a key milestone in our journey. It reflects the strong collaboration with our partners and the rigorous work undertaken to ensure readiness for commercial operations. We are committed to delivering a modern, efficient and passenger‑centric airport that will serve as a catalyst for regional economic growth.

One of the earlier milestones in the project occurred in December 2024 when IndiGo carried out a validation flight using an Airbus A320 aircraft. The flight was used to test approach procedures, navigation systems and air traffic control operations at the airport.

According to the airport operator, major infrastructure required for operations has been completed. Contracts have also been awarded for services including ground handling, aviation fuel supply, cargo operations, in-flight catering, retail, food and beverage outlets, mobility services and the airport hotel. Communications and navigation systems have been installed by the Airports Authority of India.

Commercial operations will begin after the Aerodrome Security Programme receives approval from BCAS. Airline schedules and ticket sales are expected to be announced closer to the launch date.

Several carriers have already indicated plans to operate from the airport. IndiGo, Akasa Air and Air India Express have confirmed services, while discussions are continuing with other domestic and international airlines. Cargo operators are also in talks with the airport.

The airport is located near the Yamuna Expressway, which connects it to Noida, Greater Noida, Delhi and Gurugram, as well as cities in western Uttar Pradesh. Tourist destinations such as Agra, Mathura and Vrindavan can be reached within about two hours by road.

Noida International Airport is being developed in four phases. The first phase includes one runway and one passenger terminal designed to handle around 12 million passengers a year. Plans for later phases would expand capacity to approximately 70 million passengers annually.

The project is being developed by Yamuna International Airport Private Limited, a subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG, under a public-private partnership with the governments of Uttar Pradesh and India. The concession agreement for the airport began in October 2021 and runs for 40 years.