Nagpur Airport to Undergo Major Terminal Renovation

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur is preparing for a significant terminal renovation aimed at modernizing its infrastructure and enhancing the travel experience for passengers. GMR Nagpur International Airport Limited (GNIAL), the operator of the airport, plans to refurbish around 19,500 square meters of the existing terminal. This project is set to commence following the acquisition of necessary regulatory clearances.

According to Srikanth Bhandarkar, CEO of GNIAL, the airport operator has successfully secured financial closure for the refurbishment and has initiated design development while engaging contractors. The refurbishment aims to meet the rising expectations of air travelers by improving passenger facilities significantly. The first phase of the renovation is projected to be completed within 12 to 18 months from the start of construction, contingent on receiving the required approvals.

The renovation will focus on enhancing passenger convenience by reducing congestion and improving operational efficiency within the terminal. Key features of the upgrade will include the installation of four self-bag-drop counters and five self-check-in kiosks, allowing travelers to complete pre-boarding procedures more efficiently. Additionally, four new X-ray machines will be introduced to bolster security screening capabilities and facilitate smoother passenger processing.

Other enhancements will include upgraded washrooms, dedicated lounges for both domestic and international travelers, and an increase in bus boarding gates from two to four. These improvements are expected to provide greater flexibility in managing passenger flow and enhance overall boarding operations. Alongside this major refurbishment, GNIAL has already implemented several passenger-centric improvements over the past three months, focusing on upgrading services and addressing traveler needs at various points throughout the airport.

As the airport prepares for this extensive renovation, GNIAL is also enhancing its existing services, including the deployment of passenger support associates and queue managers to assist travelers. The airport has improved its processing system under Digi Yatra, which employs facial recognition technology for passenger verification, ensuring a smoother journey through designated checkpoints. With these upgrades, GNIAL aims to combine modernized infrastructure with enhanced passenger management and amenities, ultimately improving the overall airport experience once the project is completed.