The much-awaited opening of the Noida International Airport at Jewar, one of India’s most ambitious aviation projects, has been pushed to January, after the facility failed to obtain the mandatory aerodrome licence from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The delay has caused major changes in the inauguration schedule and preparations that were underway for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival.
According to officials, the DGCA could not issue the licence because the airport did not receive security clearance from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). A recent inspection by BCAS reportedly pointed out several gaps in safety arrangements that must be fixed before operations can begin.
Preparations Halted, Equipment Sent Back
Over the past few days, large-scale arrangements were being made at the airport site for PM Modi’s inauguration and rally. German hangars, massive pandals, and event infrastructure were already being erected.
But after news of the delay, all preparations were stopped immediately, and materials brought for the event are now being sent back.
●Officials say the security lapses highlighted by BCAS include:
●Installation of concertina wire on perimeter walls
●Fixing of CCTV cameras at certain key locations
●Other pending security upgrades necessary for safe airport operations
The DGCA has directed the airport authorities to complete these requirements at the earliest to ensure the licence can be issued without further delay.
Political Leaders Confirm Postponement
Jewar MLA Dhirendra Singh confirmed that the aerodrome licence has not yet been granted due to security-related deficiencies. He also said that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been briefed on the issue.
Once the pending work is completed and the licence is granted, the inauguration—originally expected this month—will now take place early next year. The airport is expected to significantly boost connectivity, ease congestion at IGI Airport, and contribute to the regional economy of Western Uttar Pradesh.
The Noida International Airport, developed in partnership with Zurich Airport, is one of India’s biggest infrastructure projects and will eventually operate as a major aviation hub with multiple runways, global connectivity, and world-class facilities. The short delay, officials say, is aimed at ensuring the highest level of safety before it opens to the public.
