Dholera International Airport: Latest Status, Opening Date & Location
Key Highlights
Dholera International Airport is a new greenfield airport located at Navagam village near Dholera SIR, Gujarat. The airport will support passenger travel, cargo movement and industrial growth while also serving as a second airport for the Ahmedabad region.
The latest detailed Ministry of Civil Aviation review in July 2026, reported that the Dholera Airport project was about 80% complete. The primary runway, taxiway, Air Traffic Control tower and ancillary structures had reached 100% completion, while the passenger terminal was about 75% complete.
| Detail | Latest Information |
|---|---|
| Airport | Dholera International Airport |
| Type | Greenfield international airport |
| Location | Dholera region, Gujarat |
| Developer | Dholera International Airport Company Limited |
| Overall Progress | Around 80% in July 2026 |
| Primary Runway | Completed |
| Taxiway | Completed |
| ATC Tower | Completed |
| Passenger Terminal | About 75% complete |
| Terminal Size | 25,000 sq m |
| Initial Capacity | 20 lakh passengers per year |
| Cargo Terminal | 2,500 sq m |
| Opening Target | September–October 2026, subject to completion and licensing |
Is Dholera International Airport Open?
No, Dholera International Airport is not operational yet. During a review in July 2026, the Ministry of Civil Aviation reported that around 80% of the work was complete, with operations targeted to begin by October 2026. However, the remaining construction work and DGCA airport licensing were still pending.
Who is Developing Dholera Airport?
The airport is being developed by Dholera International Airport Company Limited (DIACL).
DIACL is a joint venture between:
- Airports Authority of India (AAI) – 51%
- Government of Gujarat – 33%
- NICDIT – 16%
The Government of India approved Phase 1 of the project in 2022 at an estimated cost of ₹1,305 crore.
What is the latest Dholera Airport Construction Status?
The July 2026 government review reported strong progress on the main airport infrastructure. The primary runway, taxiway, ATC tower and ancillary structures were complete. Work on the passenger terminal had reached approximately 75%.
The passenger terminal will cover about 25,000 square metres and is designed to handle around 2 million passengers annually in its initial stage. A dedicated 2,500-square-metre cargo terminal is also under development.
Dholera Airport Connectivity
Connectivity is one of the key features of Dholera International Airport. The airport connects with the wider Dholera region through the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway, improving road access from Ahmedabad and Dholera SIR.
A planned rail corridor will also connect Ahmedabad with Dholera, with the proposed airport station positioned close to the terminal. This will create a multi-modal transport network combining road, rail and air connectivity.
Why is Dholera International Airport Important?
Dholera Airport is being developed to serve both passenger and cargo traffic. Its location near Dholera SIR can support industries such as:
- Semiconductors and electronics
- Aerospace
- Manufacturing
- Logistics
- Engineering
- Export-oriented businesses
The airport is also expected to support cargo movement from the industrial region and reduce dependence on Ahmedabad Airport for some future traffic.
Conclusion
Dholera International Airport is nearing completion, with around 80% of the project completed as of July 2026. While major infrastructure such as the runway, taxiway and ATC tower is ready, the passenger terminal and licensing process are still pending. The airport is targeted to begin operations in September-October 2026, subject to final construction and regulatory approvals. Once operational, it is expected to strengthen connectivity, support Dholera SIR’s industrial growth, and expand passenger and cargo connectivity in Gujarat.
FAQs
Q. When will Dholera International Airport open?
The Ministry of Civil Aviation targeted September-October 2026 for operationalisation. Commercial operations should be considered confirmed only after the required approvals and an official opening announcement.
Q. Is Dholera Airport operational?
No, Dholera International Airport is not operational yet.
Q. What is the passenger capacity of Dholera Airport?
The passenger terminal is being designed for an initial capacity of about 20 lakh passengers per year.
Q. Does Dholera Airport have cargo facilities?
Yes. A dedicated 2,500 sq m cargo terminal is being developed to support Dholera's industrial and logistics ecosystem.
Q. Who owns Dholera International Airport?
DIACL is owned by AAI, the Government of Gujarat and NICDIT in a 51:33:16 shareholding structure.
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