IndiGo Launches Flights Today to Four Metros and Four Other Cities from Hindon
The Hindon Civil Terminal in Ghaziabad is witnessing a significant surge in air traffic, commencing a new chapter today with the launch of expanded operations by a major Indian airline. This development marks a pivotal moment for regional air connectivity, as seventy new weekly departures are introduced across eight key destinations including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. While this expansion caters to the burgeoning demand for efficient travel, it also brings into sharp focus the imperative for sustainable infrastructure development and heightened operational efficiency at the civilian terminal.
The integration of a prominent airline, now the second major carrier to operate from this strategic terminal, underscores Hindon’s growing importance in the National Capital Region’s aviation landscape. Daily flights are now scheduled for high-demand routes such as Patna, Varanasi, and Mumbai, although specific day-of-week adjustments apply to certain return services, reflecting optimised route planning. This enhanced connectivity is crucial for fostering economic ties and facilitating seamless travel for a diverse passenger base, reducing reliance on the busier Delhi international airport.
However, this increased operational tempo places considerable pressure on the existing infrastructure at Hindon Civil Terminal. Initially designed to accommodate approximately 300 passengers per hour, the terminal’s capacity has already been stretched to 430 passengers per hour through prior enhancements. With the recent launch of expanded services, passenger throughput is now projected to reach up to 500 passengers per hour, pushing the facility to its maximum manageable limit under current conditions. This rapid scaling necessitates immediate and strategic interventions to maintain operational fluidity and passenger comfort.
In response to the anticipated surge, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has proactively bolstered its ground staff, increasing personnel to 125, and is maintaining close coordination with the airline operators. Plans are also in motion to install a new conveyor belt system, a critical upgrade aimed at streamlining baggage handling processes and significantly reducing passenger wait times. These short-term operational adjustments are vital to ensure a smooth transition during this phase of intensified activity and to uphold service standards.
Looking ahead, long-term expansion plans are being meticulously crafted to accommodate future growth and to support the vision of a more accessible and equitable regional aviation network. A survey has successfully identified nine hectares of adjacent land suitable for terminal expansion, with a detailed report already submitted to the Civil Aviation Ministry for consideration. This strategic land acquisition is paramount for a full-scale expansion, which requires at least five additional acres beyond the current 42,000 square metres allocated for the terminal, with 22,250 square metres for the building itself. Such expansions must inherently consider eco-friendly construction practices and energy-efficient designs to align with zero net carbon goals.
Beyond the new additions, the Hindon Civil Terminal already serves fourteen destinations under the regional connectivity scheme, highlighting its foundational role in fostering equitable access to air travel. With various airlines connecting passengers to cities like Nanded, Adampur, Bathinda, Ludhiana, and Kishanganj, alongside major hubs, Hindon is steadily cementing its position as a vital cog in India’s regional aviation wheel. The ongoing infrastructure improvements and strategic expansions will not only alleviate immediate capacity concerns but also lay the groundwork for a truly sustainable and highly efficient aviation hub, benefiting millions of commuters and contributing significantly to regional economic development while moving towards a greener future for aviation.