GMR Airports Charts Multi-Phase Growth Strategy for Nagpur Airport Development.

GMR Airports Limited (GMR AERO) has unveiled a multi-phase modernisation and expansion roadmap for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur, with plans to transform the facility into a future-ready aviation and logistics hub.

The announcement follows the completion of the airport’s privatisation process, with MIL handing over around 1,000 hectares of land to GMR Nagpur International Airport Limited (GNIAL) on June 25, 2026. The handover enabled GNIAL to commence commercial operations and begin implementing its long-term development plans.

The Nagpur airport project marks a significant expansion of GMR Airports’ footprint in India’s aviation sector and aligns with its strategy of developing high-growth airport assets with passenger, cargo and commercial potential.

As part of the first phase of development, planned over the next eight years, GMR Airports will invest around ₹300 crore in immediate upgrades to enhance passenger facilities, operational efficiency and technology infrastructure at the existing airport.

The long-term expansion plan aims to increase passenger handling capacity from the current three million passengers per annum to 30 million passengers annually during the 30-year concession period. The airport also has the potential to scale up capacity further to 50 million passengers per annum within the available land parcel.

Located at the geographical centre of India and benefiting from the MIHAN ecosystem, Nagpur Airport is also being positioned as a major cargo and logistics hub. The development roadmap targets a long-term cargo handling capacity of 150,000 metric tonnes annually.

The proposed transformation will focus on improving passenger experience through modern terminals, advanced technology, sustainable infrastructure and global-standard amenities. Sustainability measures will include increased use of green energy, rainwater harvesting, environmentally responsible construction practices and extensive landscaping.

Of the 1,000 hectares allocated to GNIAL, nearly 100 hectares have been earmarked for city-side development, including an Aerocity project. The planned commercial zone is expected to generate employment opportunities, attract investments and support regional economic growth.

GMR Airports Chairman GBS Raju said the company views airports as engines of economic development and regional progress.

“The transformation of Nagpur Airport reflects our long-term vision of creating world-class aviation ecosystems that strengthen connectivity and contribute meaningfully to India’s growth journey,” he said.

GMR Group Executive Director and Chief Innovation Officer SGK Kishore said the company’s vision is to develop Nagpur Airport into a sustainable and technology-driven aviation hub.

“The expansion will be a step towards offering a smarter, seamless and more comfortable travel experience while reducing our environmental footprint and building resilient infrastructure for the future,” he said.

Nagpur Airport CEO Srikanth Bhandarkar said the project would go beyond infrastructure upgrades and create a new travel experience for passengers.

“Our vision is to create a future-ready gateway that offers efficiency, convenience and comfort to every traveller while contributing to Nagpur’s growth story,” he said.

The development further strengthens GMR Airports’ position as one of India’s leading airport developers and operators. The company operates and manages major aviation assets and has been focusing on integrated airport ecosystems combining passenger services, cargo operations, commercial real estate and non-aeronautical revenue streams.

The Nagpur expansion project is expected to boost trade, tourism and investment while strengthening the city’s role as a strategic aviation and logistics centre in central India.