National Desk: For air travelers in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), three major options are now emerging. Until recently, passengers were largely dependent on the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), but with the operational Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad and the upcoming Jewar (Noida International Airport)—to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 30—flyers will soon have more convenient choices.
The best airport for passengers will depend on cost, convenience, capacity, and connectivity.
Passenger Experience: Relief for Those Living Far from IGI
For NCR residents struggling with IGI’s distance and heavy traffic, Hindon and Jewar airports bring much-needed relief.
- Mritunjay Haldar from Ghaziabad says that reaching IGI earlier was tiring and expensive, but Hindon Airport has reduced the travel distance by nearly 40 km.
- Similarly, the launch of Jewar Airport will save both time and money for travelers from Noida, Greater Noida, adjoining eastern Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh.
By the Numbers: IGI Still the Largest, But Jewar Plans Big Expansion
In terms of capacity and international facilities, IGI remains the leader, but Jewar is being developed with massive future growth plans.
| Airport | Annual Passenger Capacity (approx.) | Daily Capacity (approx.) | Runways | Major Airlines & Flights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IGI Airport | 79 million (2024–25) | 200,000+ | 4 | 70+ international & domestic |
| Hindon | 84,000 | 600 | 1 (shared with Air Force) | Low-cost domestic (UDAN scheme) |
| Jewar (Noida) | 12 million in Phase 1 (target 70 million) | 3,330 (initial) | 2 (future 3) | Potential 37 domestic & 31 international routes |
Cost Factor: Hindon Has Zero UDF
User Development Fee (UDF) also plays a big role in travelers’ choice.
- Hindon Airport: Zero UDF. Passengers pay no extra charges, making it the cheapest option.
- IGI Airport: Charges vary by class (e.g., Economy departure ₹650, arrival ₹275).
- Jewar Airport: UDF fixed between ₹210 and ₹980, depending on the flight type.
✅ Summary:
- IGI – Best for international connectivity & capacity.
- Hindon – Cheapest option, ideal for low-cost domestic travel from Ghaziabad & nearby areas.
- Jewar – Upcoming gamechanger for Noida, Greater Noida & western UP with big expansion plans.
