Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) and Terminal 2 of Guwahati's Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) have been named among the World's Most Beautiful Airports for 2026. This recognition was announced at the prestigious Prix Versailles architecture and design awards, placing India's airport infrastructure in the global spotlight.
Prix Versailles: A Global Recognition for Design Excellence
The Prix Versailles awards, presented annually at UNESCO headquarters in Paris since 2015, honor newly developed airports and terminals that go beyond conventional infrastructure. The awards celebrate design, innovation, and cultural identity, offering what organizers describe as a richer and more harmonious vision of the world.
Navi Mumbai International Airport: Lotus-Inspired Architecture
At Navi Mumbai International Airport, Terminal 1's distinctive lotus-inspired architecture has been recognized for its futuristic design language and integration of technology, art, and functionality. Conceived as a world-class gateway, the airport reflects India's ambitions as a modern global economy while delivering a seamless passenger experience.
Guwahati Airport: Bamboo Orchid Inspiration
Guwahati Airport's Terminal 2 earned recognition for a design inspired by the Bamboo Orchid, a symbol closely associated with the biodiversity of Northeast India. The terminal's architectural language celebrates the region's natural heritage while incorporating a highly functional and sustainable design envelope, creating a structure that is both environmentally conscious and visually striking.
Adani Airport Holdings Limited: A Double Achievement
The recognition marks a significant achievement for Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), which operates both airports. The double entry highlights the growing global attention drawn to India's new-generation airport projects that blend architectural excellence, sustainability, and passenger experience. According to airport officials, the operator has increasingly focused on building airports that reflect local culture, embrace sustainable practices, and offer globally competitive facilities.
Global Recognition Alongside International Hubs
The two Indian airports feature alongside major international aviation hubs in Guangzhou, China; Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Kandal Stueng, Cambodia; Pittsburgh, United States; and San Diego, United States. All were selected for their architectural distinction and innovative design.
The Prix Versailles awards promote the idea of "intelligent sustainability," where culture, architecture, and environmental responsibility come together in shaping future infrastructure.
