Andhra Pradesh is set to add a major aviation landmark with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to inaugurate the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram on August 1, marking the operational launch of the state’s newest international airport.
Developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL), a subsidiary of GMR Airports Limited, the greenfield airport is expected to transform air connectivity across North Coastal Andhra while providing a significant boost to tourism, trade, logistics and industrial growth.
Designed for future growth
The airport has been built with an initial capacity to handle 6 million passengers annually, with infrastructure designed to expand beyond 40 million passengers per annum in future phases.
Its key infrastructure includes a 3,800-metre Code 4E runway, a modern integrated passenger terminal, dedicated cargo facilities and advanced airside systems capable of handling both domestic and international flights.
The project is among India’s most significant greenfield aviation developments and is expected to strengthen Andhra Pradesh’s position as an emerging investment destination.
Ready for commercial operations
The airport has completed all major regulatory and statutory requirements ahead of its inauguration.
It has secured the Aerodrome Licence from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), security clearance from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), notification as an Immigration Check Post (ICP), Customs notification under the Customs Act and Consent to Operate from the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board, besides other mandatory operational approvals.
With these clearances in place, scheduled commercial flight operations are expected to commence immediately after the inauguration.
Gateway for North Coastal Andhra
Strategically located at Bhogapuram near Visakhapatnam, the airport will serve passengers from Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam and adjoining districts of Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
The facility is expected to significantly improve domestic and international connectivity while supporting the growth of the Visakhapatnam Economic Region (VER).
Government agencies have also accelerated infrastructure development around the airport, including seven major approach roads, enhanced public transport services and improved highway connectivity to ensure seamless passenger access.
Economic growth catalyst
Beyond passenger traffic, the airport is expected to emerge as a major logistics and cargo hub for eastern India.
Its dedicated cargo infrastructure and proximity to industrial corridors are expected to improve export competitiveness for sectors such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, electronics, seafood exports and advanced manufacturing.
Industry observers believe the airport will play a pivotal role in attracting investments, generating employment and strengthening the region’s manufacturing and services ecosystem.
Focus on sustainability
The airport has been developed with sustainability as a core design principle. It incorporates renewable energy systems, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient technologies and environmentally responsible infrastructure to support long-term, resilient airport operations.
With final preparations under way, government agencies, regulators and airport stakeholders are working together to ensure a smooth inauguration and operational rollout.
The opening of Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport is expected to mark a defining milestone in Andhra Pradesh’s aviation infrastructure, reinforcing Visakhapatnam’s position as the Gateway of the East while creating new opportunities for passengers, businesses and investors.