Dholera Smart City Airport: Latest News & Updates

Introduction

Dholera Smart City, India’s first greenfield smart city, is rapidly transforming into a major economic hub. One of its most anticipated projects is the Dholera International Airport, designed to enhance connectivity and support industrial, commercial, and residential development in the region. This airport is a crucial part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) and is expected to alleviate air traffic congestion from Ahmedabad Airport while boosting economic activity.

As of 2025, construction is progressing at a fast pace, with government approvals and funding in place. The airport is expected to be operational in its first phase by December 2025. This ambitious project aims to cater to both passenger and cargo transportation, making it a strategic aviation hub for Gujarat and Western India. In this blog, we will discuss the latest news, development progress, infrastructure details, economic impact, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the Dholera International Airport.

Latest News & Development Progress

Government Approvals and Investment

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Gujarat State Government are jointly overseeing the development of Dholera International Airport. The Union Cabinet approved Phase I of the project in June 2022, allocating ₹1,305 crore ($160 million USD) for construction.

The Environment Clearance (EC) and Site Clearance have been obtained from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
The Airport Authority of India (AAI) and National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) are collaborating on the project.
Land acquisition for the first phase is 100% completed, covering 1,427 hectares.

The airport will be developed in multiple phases, with the initial phase focusing on the construction of a passenger terminal, runway, air traffic control (ATC) tower, and cargo complex.

Construction Milestones

January 2024: A ₹333 crore EPC contract was awarded to Yashnand Engineers and Contractors.
Runway construction began in early 2024, with an expected length of 3,200 meters in Phase 1, suitable for Code 4E aircraft (Boeing 747, Airbus A350).
Terminal Building and Cargo Complex work is underway.
The airport will feature two runways in future phases, with an extended length of 4,000 meters.
The airport will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, including smart security systems, AI-driven air traffic control, and automated passenger handling.

Expansion of Air Cargo Facilities

Dholera International Airport will not only serve passenger flights but also play a crucial role in cargo transportation. With the rise of e-commerce, logistics, and global trade, the airport aims to become a leading cargo hub in western India.

Dedicated cargo terminals will be built to handle perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and high-value exports.
Cold storage facilities will support agricultural exports from Gujarat, benefiting farmers and agribusinesses.
Integrated logistics parks will be developed near the airport to facilitate smooth cargo handling and distribution.
The airport will serve as a transshipment hub, reducing reliance on Mumbai and Delhi for international cargo.

Strategic Location & Connectivity

Strategic Location & Connectivity

Dholera International Airport is strategically positioned 100 km southwest of Ahmedabad, making it an ideal secondary airport for Gujarat’s capital region. It is being developed as a key alternative to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, which is currently operating at high capacity. This airport will play a crucial role in decongesting air traffic and enhancing regional connectivity.

Seamless Multimodal Connectivity

The airport is designed to be a smart transport hub, integrating multiple modes of connectivity to ensure smooth passenger and cargo movement:

Expressways & Highways: The airport will be well-connected via a six-lane expressway, forming part of the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway project, significantly reducing travel time between Ahmedabad and Dholera.
Rail Network: A dedicated railway corridor is planned to link the airport with major railway junctions, facilitating easy access for passengers and cargo transportation.
Metro Connectivity: A high-speed metro rail project will further enhance accessibility, offering a direct link between Ahmedabad and Dholera Smart City.

Proximity to Ports & Industrial Corridors

Dholera International Airport is strategically situated near key seaports, making it a prime hub for cargo logistics:

Close to Dholera & Pipavav Ports: The airport’s proximity to Dholera Port and Pipavav Port will enhance seamless cargo movement, supporting industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and e-commerce.
Part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC): The airport is a key component of the DMIC, boosting industrial growth and positioning Dholera as a global trade and logistics hub.

Future Expansion & Smart Technology Integration

Dholera International Airport is being developed with a long-term vision to accommodate growing air traffic and cargo demand:

Runway Expansion: The initial 3,200-meter runway (Phase 1) will be expanded to 4,000 meters in future phases, enabling the operation of larger aircraft and long-haul international flights.
Terminal Growth: Plans include scaling up passenger terminals with advanced biometric security checks, AI-powered check-in counters, and automated baggage handling for enhanced efficiency.
Green & Smart Airport Features: The airport will integrate renewable energy solutions, smart air traffic control systems, and sustainable infrastructure, making it an eco-friendly and tech-driven aviation hub.

With its strategic location, robust connectivity, and futuristic expansion plans, Dholera International Airport is set to become a major aviation and economic powerhouse, driving regional growth, trade, and global investments..

Economic Impact & Benefits

Job Creation & Industrial Growth

The development of Dholera International Airport is set to be a significant driver of employment and industrial expansion in Gujarat. The project is expected to create over 50,000 direct and indirect jobs, positively impacting various sectors, including aviation, logistics, tourism, and commercial industries.

Boost to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): The airport will serve as a major attraction for global investors, accelerating the growth of the Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR). With world-class infrastructure and government-backed initiatives, the region is poised to become a key industrial and economic hub.
Growth in Key Industries: Improved cargo transportation and global connectivity will benefit manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, IT parks, and defense industries. Businesses will have seamless access to domestic and international markets, fostering trade and economic growth.
Aviation & Aerospace Industry Development: The airport will act as a catalyst for the aviation and aerospace sectors, encouraging aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, aircraft assembly, and technological innovations in the aviation industry.

Real Estate & Tourism Boom

Dholera Smart City’s real estate sector is set for exponential growth, fueled by the airport’s development. Demand for both commercial and residential properties is rising, making it a lucrative opportunity for investors.

Growth of Business & Tourism Hub: With the airport facilitating both domestic and international flights, Dholera is on track to become a premier business and tourism destination.
Increased Business & Leisure Travel: Enhanced air connectivity will boost corporate travel, luxury tourism, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism, attracting business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs.
Boost to Local Tourism: The airport’s proximity to historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and eco-tourism destinations will increase tourist footfall in Gujarat. As a result, local businesses, hotels, and tourism operators will see significant growth.

With the Dholera International Airport serving as a key economic enabler, the region is poised for long-term growth, increased investments, and enhanced global connectivity.

Future Prospects & Expansion Plans

Phase 2 & 3 Expansion

Future expansion will include increasing passenger capacity, adding more runways, and integrating AI-driven airport management.
The second phase will focus on terminal expansion, additional taxiways, and enhanced airside operations to accommodate growing air traffic.
The third phase will see the addition of a second parallel runway, making it a hub for international flights, long-haul routes, and major airlines.
The long-term vision is to make Dholera International Airport a key aviation hub for Western India, handling both passenger and cargo flights at a global scale.
The airport is expected to handle over 50 million passengers annually in the coming decades, making it one of India’s largest airports.
Advanced air traffic management systems, automated baggage handling, and green energy solutions will be integrated to make it a model for sustainable aviation.
Aerospace and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facilities will be set up to support aircraft servicing, making Dholera an aviation industry hub.
Smart airport technology, including AI-driven predictive maintenance, real-time passenger flow management, and biometric-based security checks, will enhance efficiency and passenger experience.
Plans for direct connectivity with metro cities across India and international destinations will make Dholera a preferred choice for both business and leisure travel.

Conclusion

The Dholera International Airport is a game-changer for Dholera Smart City and Gujarat’s aviation sector. With world-class infrastructure, strategic connectivity, and government backing, this airport is set to transform the region into a global business hub. Investors, businesses, and residents can look forward to a thriving ecosystem with immense opportunities in the coming years. The airport’s development is a key milestone in making Dholera the next global smart city and an economic powerhouse for India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When will Dholera International Airport be operational?

The first phase of Dholera International Airport is expected to be operational by December 2025.

2. What is the significance of Dholera International Airport?

The airport will serve as a major aviation hub, easing congestion from Ahmedabad Airport, boosting industrial growth, and enhancing logistics for cargo transportation.

3. How many runways will the airport have?

Initially, the airport will have one 3,200-meter runway (Phase 1), with plans to add a second parallel runway (4,000 meters) in later phases.

4. Will Dholera Airport handle international flights?

Yes, Dholera International Airport is designed to handle both domestic and international flights, catering to passenger and cargo operations.

5. What industries will benefit from this airport?

Industries such as manufacturing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, IT, and aerospace will benefit from improved connectivity and cargo handling.

6. Is there a metro or expressway connecting the airport?

Yes, a dedicated metro line and six-lane expressway are planned to connect the airport with Ahmedabad and surrounding regions.