GMR Airports to invest Rs 300 crore in first phase of Nagpur Airport upgrade

GMR Airports has announced an initial investment of Rs 300 crore to modernise Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, marking the beginning of a long-term plan to transform the airport into one of central India’s largest aviation and logistics hubs. The first phase of the upgrade is expected to be completed within the next 12 to 18 months and will focus on improving passenger facilities and operational efficiency.

The airport operator plans to refurbish the existing terminal building while adding new passenger amenities to improve the overall travel experience. The works will include additional check-in counters, self-check-in kiosks, expanded security screening areas, upgraded washrooms, dedicated lounges, improved passenger access and better circulation within the terminal. The aim is to handle growing passenger traffic while reducing waiting times and improving convenience.

The investment follows GMR Airports’ recent takeover of operations at Nagpur Airport under a 30-year concession agreement. The company has outlined a multi-phase development roadmap that will increase the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity from the current 3 million passengers to 30 million passengers over the concession period. The master plan also allows for future expansion to 50 million passengers annually if demand continues to grow.

Beyond the immediate terminal improvements, GMR’s long-term vision includes the construction of a new integrated passenger terminal, a second runway and expanded airside infrastructure. The company also plans to develop an Aerocity across nearly 100 hectares, creating space for hotels, offices, retail, logistics facilities and commercial developments around the airport. These projects are expected to turn the airport into an integrated aviation ecosystem rather than simply a transport hub.

Nagpur’s central location gives it a strategic advantage for both passenger travel and cargo operations. The airport forms a key part of the Multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport at Nagpur (MIHAN) project, which aims to combine aviation, road, rail and industrial infrastructure to strengthen logistics and manufacturing in central India. Industry experts believe that the expansion will improve regional connectivity while attracting fresh investment into warehousing, logistics and industrial development.

The redevelopment also supports the Indian government’s wider efforts to strengthen airport infrastructure as passenger numbers continue to rise across the country. Modern airports are increasingly being planned as economic centres that generate employment, attract businesses and support urban development beyond aviation activities. Nagpur’s expansion reflects this broader trend, with infrastructure being developed to meet both current demand and future growth.

According to GMR Airports, the phased investment approach will allow the airport to continue operating smoothly while construction progresses. Once completed, the upgraded facilities are expected to improve passenger comfort, increase operational capacity and support the airport’s role as a major gateway for central India.

With the first phase now underway, Nagpur Airport is set to enter a new phase of development that combines aviation infrastructure, commercial growth and logistics expansion. The project is expected to strengthen the city’s position as an important transport hub while supporting economic growth across the region.