With the upcoming Jewar Airport in Noida set to become operational in the next few years, a key question arises: will flyers leave Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) for the new facility? Experts weigh in on the factors that could influence passenger choice.
Location and Connectivity
Jewar Airport, located in Gautam Buddh Nagar, is approximately 72 km from central Delhi, while IGI is about 16 km. However, Jewar will be connected via the upcoming Delhi-Meerut Expressway and a dedicated metro line, reducing travel time. For residents of Noida, Greater Noida, and western Uttar Pradesh, Jewar could be more accessible than IGI.
Cost and Capacity
Jewar aims to be a low-cost airport with competitive landing and parking fees, which could lead to cheaper airfares. It is designed to handle 12 million passengers annually in its first phase, eventually expanding to 70 million, easing congestion at IGI. However, IGI's established network of airlines and services may retain loyal customers.
Passenger Preferences
Frequent flyers from east Delhi and Noida may prefer Jewar for shorter commutes, while those in west and south Delhi might stick with IGI. Business travelers valuing proximity to central Delhi may also stay. The success of Jewar will depend on seamless connectivity and affordable fares.
Conclusion
While Jewar Airport offers potential benefits, a mass exodus from IGI is unlikely in the short term. A gradual shift is expected, especially for budget travelers and those in the eastern region. The aviation landscape in Delhi-NCR is set for a transformation, but IGI's dominance will persist for now.
