Nagpur: GMR Nagpur International Airport Limited (GNAIL) is set to finalize its blueprint after taking over 1,320 hectares on lease from Mihan India Limited (MIL), the current operator. This move makes Nagpur the sixth Indian airport to be managed by GMR, which has secured a Rs 2,600 crore loan from Tata Capital for the mega project. However, initial capital infusion will depend on early estimates.
New Terminal and Capacity Expansion
A new terminal building is expected to be constructed in four to five years, according to top sources. The ultimate goal is to increase passenger capacity from the current 30 lakh to 3 crore. However, this peak capacity will be achieved step by step, with phased development. GNAIL will operate the airport through a joint venture for 30 years. Since it is a brownfield airport, work will proceed without disrupting existing operations.
Government Vision
A government press release following the Union cabinet's decision stated that GNAIL is expected to transform Nagpur airport into a world-class facility, enhancing its position in central India and improving connectivity and economic infrastructure. GMR plans to begin by improving amenities in the existing building before moving to Mihan-SEZ, where the new terminal will be built. Other decisions, such as laying a second runway, will be considered based on traffic growth.
Lease Details and Revenue Sharing
Under the 30-year lease deal, GMR will give 14.49% of gross revenue earned through operations to MIL. Initial plans focus on revamping existing facilities to enhance passenger experience. The airport currently extends towards Jaitala on one side and Shivangaon village towards Mihan-SEZ on the other, providing ample land for expansion. The last recorded revenue by MIL stood at Rs 150 crore, handling 34 flights, including two international services.
Future Developments
The new terminal is planned on land between the existing runway and aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) depots in the SEZ. The exact location will be finalized when the blueprint is ready. With private sector efficiency and government oversight, the airport is poised for significant investment, modernization, and improved passenger and cargo handling.
- Initial plan: Improve facilities within existing terminals
- New terminal: May be built in 4-5 years after assessing dynamics
- Goal: Enhance passenger handling capacity to 3 crore from 30 lakh
- New terminal may come up close to aircraft MROs in Mihan
- Nagpur airport is spread over 1,320 hectares
- It is a Code-E compliant runway
- GMR will run the airport for 30 years
