India’s Newest Airport Has 16 Destinations and No Train Yet

Noida International Airport, the Jewar-based gateway meant to give the Delhi region a second major hub, began commercial operations in June 2026 with five destinations. It now serves 16 domestic destinations, with IndiGo and Akasa Air together running an average of 35 flights a day. Airlines decide their own routes, but the airport expects more growth in the winter schedule.

International passenger flights are the next milestone. The airport says they are expected in the following months, subject to regulatory approvals and market conditions, and that it is in talks with airlines serving West Asia and Southeast Asia. No start dates or destinations are confirmed. International cargo operations are planned within the coming weeks.

Cargo is a large part of the pitch. The terminal, run by Air India SATS Airport Services, has initial annual capacity of about 250,000 metric tonnes, with room to expand to 1.5 million. Agreements cover roughly 200 livestock freighter flights between September 2026 and August 2027, and the first freighter, operated by Afcom Holdings from Chennai, carried nearly 20 tonnes of mixed goods. An Akasa Air maintenance facility is also planned.

Getting there takes some planning, because there is no direct metro or rail link. Passengers can use round-the-clock electric taxis, app-based cabs, chauffeur rentals, state bus services, electric buses to Delhi transit hubs and Noida’s Morna bus depot, or bookable intercity coaches. The user development fee is ₹490, which the airport’s chief executive says stays competitive with other greenfield airports.

Sources: Aviation A2Z