INDIA. Noida International Airport (NIA), the major greenfield airport project in Greater Delhi, today (15 June) began passenger and commercial operations.
Indian carrier IndiGo operated the first inbound flight from Lucknow, marking the start of scheduled passenger services. A gradual increase in operations is expected over the coming months, with additional airlines to commence services soon.
Yamuna International Airport Private Limited – a subsidiary of Zurich Airport International – is responsible for the vast new hub’s development, construction and operations.
A Zurich Airport statement today said the ramp-up of airport operations and the pace at which new routes and frequencies are introduced are being affected by the geopolitical environment.
It noted: “Since March 2026, the global aviation market has been characterised by increased geopolitical uncertainty due to the conflict in the Middle East. Airspace closures, elevated fuel costs and capacity adjustments have resulted in a more volatile operating environment for Indian airlines.”
The statement added: “Zurich Airport continues to closely monitor the ramp-up of operations at Noida International Airport, as well as geopolitical and Indian dynamics. The company remains confident in the mid- and long-term potential of the Indian aviation market and the strategic relevance of Noida International Airport, while short-term developments remain subject to elevated uncertainty.”
Over time, NIA is set to be one of the world’s great gateways, one that should help ease congestion at Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport in the National Capital Region, boost regional connectivity and support economic growth.
The start of services follows the inauguration of the airport by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28 March.
Previewing the opening and the commercial opportunities last year, the airport company said: “Passengers travelling through NIA will have a seamless and engaging shopping and dining experience. Heinemann Asia Pacific and BWC Forwarders will curate a dynamic mix of retail and duty-free offerings, showcasing both global brands and local treasures.
“Travel Food Services (TFS) and HMSHost India (a subsidiary of Avolta) will offer the best of airport dining with premium lounges and diverse multi-cuisine dining options. The F&B landscape at NIA will celebrate the region’s rich culinary traditions, blending local flavours with global cuisines to create a memorable dining experience. Passengers can expect an exciting culinary journey, featuring specially curated options that evoke a sense of place.
“The lounges, operated by TFS, will offer an engaging environment with live interactive food stations, expansive buffets, an experiential cocktail bar and spa services designed for ultimate relaxation. Complementing this, our partnership with TajSATS will enhance inflight services through a state-of-the-art kitchen dedicated to delivering exceptional catering.”
Partners such as Travel Food Services (TFS) saluted the opening. A TFS statement said, “With this, our presence across airports increases to 21. Through our Travel QSR offerings and Travel Club Lounge, we look forward to elevating the passenger experience with seamless, thoughtful and traveller-centric touchpoints at every stage of the journey.
“NIA represents one of India’s most significant greenfield airport developments, and we are proud to be part of its journey from the outset as it builds toward its long-term vision for scale and connectivity.” See the LinkedIn post below for more. ✈
