Shirdi’s airport has taken a giant leap towards enhancing connectivity and boosting both religious tourism and economic development. This new development marks a significant milestone in the state’s strategic push to expand its aviation infrastructure.
The newly upgraded Shirdi airport, located at Kakadi near the temple town, now accommodates round-the-clock flights, ensuring greater accessibility for millions of devotees. This transformation follows the successful launch of night-flight operations, inaugurated on the auspicious occasion of Gudi Padwa in March. The first flight, arriving from Hyderabad, heralded the airport’s capacity to handle nighttime landings, setting the stage for a more seamless travel experience for pilgrims. Shirdi’s airport, spanning 350 hectares, has quickly become one of Maharashtra’s busiest airports. Despite being inaugurated in 2017, it has swiftly edged past older regional airports such as those in Aurangabad, Nanded, Kolhapur, and Nashik, securing its place as the fourth busiest airport in the state, behind Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. This growing popularity is a direct reflection of Shirdi’s status as a major pilgrimage destination, drawing millions of devotees from across India and abroad, especially from southern states like Andhra Pradesh.
With the airport now facilitating night landings, it has gained an edge over other regional airports. This development ensures that pilgrims can now arrive at Shirdi at any time of the day or night, making it easier to attend the early morning kakad arati, a key religious ritual at the Sai Baba shrine. Furthermore, the new instrumental landing system and round-the-clock air traffic control pave the way for uninterrupted operations, including emergency landings, enhancing the safety and reliability of air travel in the region. Currently, Shirdi airport handles an average of 11 arrivals and 11 departures daily, connecting the town with cities like Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Bengaluru, Chennai, New Delhi, and Indore. The expansion of night operations aims to further consolidate the airport’s role in regional connectivity, particularly during large-scale events like the Kumbh Mela in 2027, when it will act as a vital backup airport for the nearby Ozar airport during peak traffic.
Beyond facilitating religious tourism, the Shirdi airport’s expansion is poised to spur significant economic activity. The introduction of cargo facilities later this year and the planned construction of a new terminal building, slated for completion in 2026, will enhance the airport’s capacity and streamline logistical operations. Once completed, the new terminal will enable the airport to accommodate up to 1,200 passengers per hour, a significant increase from its current capacity. Additionally, the cargo facility is expected to boost the export of agricultural products, further integrating the region into the global supply chain. The airport’s infrastructural expansion also includes the extension and recarpeting of the existing 2,500-meter runway, which will be lengthened to 3,200 meters, making it suitable for larger aircraft. This development will allow the airport to handle a greater volume of passenger and freight traffic, supporting the state’s long-term growth trajectory.
In line with Maharashtra’s broader aviation strategy, Shirdi’s airport is not an isolated case. The Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) is overseeing the construction of several other airports across the state. Recently, Amravati airport in Vidarbha received its aerodrome licence, with Alliance Air set to launch flights connecting it to Mumbai. This new airport will serve as a critical hub for regions such as Amravati, Akola, Wardha, and Yavatmal, further strengthening the state’s aviation network. Additionally, the state is progressing with plans for the Navi Mumbai International Airport, which is expected to relieve pressure on Mumbai’s existing airport infrastructure. This greenfield airport, set to handle 90 million passengers annually, will become one of India’s largest when completed, enhancing Maharashtra’s status as an aviation powerhouse.
The state’s aviation developments also extend to remote and underserved areas, such as Gadchiroli in Vidarbha. A greenfield airport is being planned for the district, which will improve connectivity to the region, stimulate industrial growth, and support tourism. The airport will be strategically positioned to aid in the transportation of steel and mining products while also promoting local tourism. The expansion of Shirdi’s airport exemplifies Maharashtra’s commitment to improving its aviation infrastructure, not only to enhance tourism but also to boost regional economic development. As the state pushes forward with plans for new airports and enhanced facilities, it is creating a robust network that will foster greater connectivity, economic growth, and social equity across Maharashtra.
By investing in modern aviation infrastructure, Maharashtra is preparing for the future, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of India’s economic and tourism-driven growth. Shirdi, with its rich spiritual heritage and now enhanced connectivity, is poised to be a key player in this ambitious vision.
Shirdi Airport Sets New Standards in Aviation Infrastructure
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