6-million capacity, state-of-the-art facilities: Andhra Pradesh gets 3rd airport

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh's Vizianagaram district, marking a major milestone for the state's aviation sector. Built at a cost of nearly Rs 5,000 crore, the greenfield airport is expected to enhance domestic and international connectivity, strengthen trade, promote tourism and fuel economic growth across North Coastal Andhra Pradesh.

Developed by the GMR Group, the airport has been built to meet the region's growing passenger and cargo demand while complementing the existing Visakhapatnam Airport. Although the airport was inaugurated on August 1, commercial flight operations are scheduled to begin from August 17, 2026.

WHY THE AIRPORT IS IMPORTANT

Located in Bhogapuram, Vizianagaram district, the airport is expected to emerge as a major aviation gateway for North Andhra Pradesh. It will improve connectivity to Visakhapatnam and nearby districts while supporting business, logistics, exports and tourism.

Image credits: @narendramodi

The project is also expected to reduce pressure on the existing Visakhapatnam Airport, which has witnessed a steady rise in passenger traffic over the years.

KEY FEATURES OF THE AIRPORT

• Built at an estimated cost of nearly Rs 5,000 crore

• Developed by the GMR Group

• Named after legendary freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju

• Phase 1 capacity: 6 million passengers annually

• Ultimate planned capacity: Around 18 million passengers annually

• Features a 3,800-metre runway capable of handling large wide-body international aircraft

• Equipped with modern passenger amenities, aerobridges, advanced baggage handling systems and dedicated cargo facilities

• Designed to support both domestic and international flight operations

TERMINAL INSPIRED BY AYODHYA'S SHRI RAM MANDIR

A key highlight of the airport is its architecturally distinctive terminal, inspired by the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The design incorporates traditional Indian architectural elements, including sandstone-inspired faades, elegant columns and intricate detailing, while seamlessly integrating modern airport infrastructure.

The terminal combines cultural aesthetics with contemporary passenger facilities, offering spacious check-in halls, advanced security systems, energy-efficient features and a comfortable travel experience.

HOW WILL THE AIRPORT BENEFIT THE REGION?

The airport is expected to play a significant role in the development of Andhra Pradesh by:

• Improving domestic and international air connectivity

• Boosting tourism in Visakhapatnam, Araku Valley and nearby coastal destinations

• Strengthening cargo movement and exports

• Attracting investments in logistics, manufacturing and hospitality

• Creating employment opportunities during operations and future expansion

• Reducing congestion at the existing Visakhapatnam Airport

COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS TO START FROM AUGUST 17

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the airport on August 1, commercial flight services are expected to commence from August 17, 2026. Airlines are likely to begin with domestic routes before gradually expanding international operations.