Sun Jan 04 06:10:35 UTC 2026: Summary:

The first Air India flight successfully landed at the new Bhogapuram International Airport in Vizianagaram district, near Visakhapatnam, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s development. Union Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, along with other officials, was on board the flight and expressed optimism about the airport’s positive impact on the region’s economy. The GMR Group, responsible for the airport’s construction, is on track to meet the June 30, 2026 deadline for full-fledged operations. The airport boasts a 3.8 km runway, capacity for 200 planes, 18 parking bays, and 18 immigration counters. It’s expected to cater to travelers from North Andhra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh, and handle 20,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

News Article:

Bhogapuram Airport Reaches Milestone as First Flight Lands

VIZIANAGARAM, India – January 4, 2026 – The newly constructed Bhogapuram International Airport near Visakhapatnam celebrated a significant milestone today with the successful landing of its first Air India flight. The event marks a major step toward the airport’s scheduled opening for full commercial operations on June 30, 2026.

The flight, carrying Union Minister K. Rammohan Naidu and other dignitaries, received a ceremonial water cannon salute upon arrival. Minister Naidu hailed the event as “historic” and expressed confidence that the airport would significantly boost economic activity in the North Andhra region. He also affirmed the government’s commitment to improving road access to the airport.

Constructed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL) on 2,200 acres at a cost of ₹4,725 crores, the greenfield airport boasts a 3.8 km runway. According to GMR Group Deputy Managing Director I. Prabhakara Rao, the airport can accommodate 200 aircraft and provides parking for 18 planes. The airport will also offer 18 immigration counters to facilitate smooth passenger flow.

GMR Group anticipates that 33% of travelers will originate from Visakhapatnam district, with the remaining 67% drawn from the broader North Andhra region, as well as Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The airport will also feature a substantial cargo terminal with the capacity to handle 20,000 tonnes of cargo per year, supporting the export of local products like bulk drugs, agriculture, and marine goods.

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