Greater Noida: In response to a surge in demand from airlines requesting overnight aircraft parking, Noida International Airport (NIA) has announced plans to expand its parking facilities. The airport is adding nine new parking bays to its current 25, a move aimed at accommodating the increased interest from airlines and easing congestion at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.
The NIA, set to begin commercial operations in April next year, anticipates handling around 5 million passengers in its first year which is nearly half of its total capacity. The Times of India quoted NIA CEO Christoph Schnellmann who emphasised the significance of this milestone, stating, “We are expanding the apron positions even before operations begin due to high interest from airlines. Many airlines, including those we’ve partnered with, are looking to base their aircraft here overnight.”
Much anticipated parking relief for Delhi’s IGI Airport
This expansion is expected to provide much-needed relief to IGI Airport, which has been grappling with parking congestion. Nearly 70 parking bays at IGI are currently occupied by grounded aircraft, many of which belong to IndiGo’s Airbus A320 fleet and GoAir, largely due to issues with Pratt & Whitney engines. The parking shortage has led to logistical challenges, especially during high-profile events like the recent G20 Summit, where space for national and international dignitaries’ planes was at a premium.
Partnerships with countries top airlines
The new Noida Airport, also referred to as Jewar Airport, has already secured partnerships with major carriers, including IndiGo and Akasa. Discussions are also underway with other domestic and international airlines, including Tata Group airlines. Schnellmann expressed optimism about the airport’s future, highlighting the positive response from airlines and the strong demand for its services.
Notably , we earlier reported that the Noida International Airport at Jewar which is currently under construction is now poised to get operational by April 2024.
