Noida International Airport, commonly referred to as Jewar Airport, marked a significant milestone in its development journey with the completion of a successful test flight of an Airbus A320. This event signifies a critical step towards the airport's operational readiness, scheduled for April 2025. The test flight was conducted by IndiGo, India's largest airline by market share, using one of its Airbus A320-232 aircraft, specifically VT-IFI. The plane took off from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, circled over Noida, and then made a landing at the new airport's runway. This test was essential to validate the airport's navigational aids, air traffic control systems, and overall infrastructure, ensuring they meet international safety and operational standards.
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The flight not only tested the physical runway and associated equipment but also evaluated the airport's readiness for emergency procedures and its capacity to handle aircraft operations efficiently. The test included checking the runway performance, lighting systems, and the functionality of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI), which are crucial for aircraft landing in various weather conditions. Noida International Airport's CEO, Christoph Schnellmann, praised the achievement, stating, "This successful test flight is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in this project. It brings us a step closer to our goal of opening a world-class airport that will act as a pivotal hub for the region."
This milestone comes after years of planning and construction, with the airport being developed to alleviate the pressure on Delhi's busy airports. Located in the Gautam Buddh Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, the airport is expected to handle 12 million passengers annually in its first phase, with the capacity to grow to 70 million by the completion of its fourth phase. The involvement of IndiGo in this test is particularly noteworthy as it has been designated as the launch carrier for Noida International Airport. The airline's participation not only aids in the practical validation of the airport's capabilities but also underscores the strategic partnership between the airport and one of India's leading carriers.
The successful test flight is part of a series of validations the airport must undergo before it can obtain its aerodrome certification from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Following this, the airport will finalize documentation and prepare for a series of operational trials to ensure all systems are fully functional before the official opening. This achievement is not just a technical success but also a symbol of economic growth and connectivity for the National Capital Region (NCR), promising new avenues for tourism, business, and international engagement.