The Noida International Airport (NIAL), also known as the Jewar Airport, has marked a significant milestone with the successful completion of its first flight validation test on December 9, 2024. The test, conducted by an IndiGo flight from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) to the new facility, comes ahead of the airport’s highly anticipated commercial launch in April 2025.
The validation test was a critical step in the airport’s preparation, as it simulated real-world operational conditions and assessed the full functionality of the airport’s infrastructure. Over the course of a two-hour flight, the aircraft, which was staffed by crew members only, undertook the necessary checks for security protocols, runway performance, and airspace coordination. This carefully orchestrated exercise required tight coordination between the pilot and air traffic controllers, ensuring smooth execution. What sets this project apart is the advanced infrastructure and global standards being implemented. The runway at Jewar, designed in partnership with Zurich Airport International, spans 3.9 km, making it capable of handling large aircraft, and positioning the airport as a major regional hub. With the expansion of the national aviation network, Jewar Airport is set to alleviate congestion at Delhi IGIA, significantly improving connectivity in the National Capital Region.
The flight validation test, which was conducted under the supervision of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), also involved key stakeholders such as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), and state aviation authorities. The data collected during the test will now be submitted to the DGCA for review and approval, which is a critical step before the airport is granted the necessary operating license. With the validation process expected to be completed by mid-December, the next phase will see the application for an aerodrome licence, paving the way for the airport’s commercial operations. This is a key moment for Uttar Pradesh, as the state positions itself as a key player in India’s burgeoning aviation sector, promising a significant boost to both regional and national connectivity.
Earlier this year, the airport successfully completed the calibration of its Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI), essential for safe aircraft navigation. These advancements are part of an extensive effort to ensure that the airport is fully operational and ready to handle passenger flights as scheduled in 2025. As the completion date draws nearer, the successful test flight stands as a testament to the airport’s preparedness and its potential to be a game-changer in the aviation landscape.
