Noida International Airport Faces Fresh Delay, ₹10 Lakh Daily Penalty Imposed on YIAPL

Jewar, Uttar Pradesh: The much-anticipated Noida International Airport at Jewar has yet again missed its revised operational deadline of May 15, 2025, pushing back domestic flight services and raising serious concerns over project execution. As per official sources, the Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL), the project’s concessionaire, will now have to bear a ₹10 lakh per day penalty for the delay — a move enforced by the Uttar Pradesh government.

Third Deadline Missed, Terminal Still Incomplete

Initially set to begin operations in September 2024, the airport’s timeline was first extended to March, then April, and finally May 15, 2025 — all of which have now been breached. The delay stems from the incomplete terminal construction, pending aerodrome licence, and slow progress in utilities infrastructure.

According to a detailed report by the Times of India, the runway and airside infrastructure are 90% complete, while the passenger terminal building lags at 80%, with major roofing and interior work still underway. Shockingly, only 40% of the water and sewage systems are ready as of March 10.

DGCA Licence and CNS/ATM Systems Still Awaited

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has not yet issued the crucial aerodrome licence, further stalling airport operations. Additionally, the Air Traffic Control (ATC) building was due for completion by March 31, but the commissioning of CNS/ATM systems by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is now expected by April 30, as per the latest updates.

YIAPL officials have cited these administrative and construction-related issues in their explanation to the Chief Minister and senior state officials.

Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh Steps In

Taking the matter seriously, Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh visited the airport site on April 29, holding a high-level meeting with stakeholders including YIAPL, Tata Projects Limited, and Noida International Airport Limited (NIAL). A detailed report is expected to be submitted within 15 days, with further clarity on the new project timeline.

Phased Operations Being Considered

To mitigate the delay, DGCA has reportedly suggested phased operations, starting with cargo flights by May 15, followed by partial passenger operations, or even a complete rollout of Phase 1 once all critical infrastructure is ready.

What This Means for Passengers

For passengers and aviation stakeholders, the delay is yet another setback in the region’s aspiration to become a global air travel hub. The Noida International Airport was touted as a game-changer, aimed at decongesting Delhi’s IGI Airport and boosting regional connectivity. However, frequent delays have now cast doubt on its short-term viability.

Conclusion

As Noida International Airport stares at another indefinite delay, the onus is now on YIAPL and associated contractors to speed up completion and regulatory approvals. With a hefty ₹10 lakh per day penalty in place and pressure from top government officials, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the fate of India’s most ambitious greenfield airport project.