The Bhogapuram International Airport in Andhra Pradesh is currently under development by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Ltd. (GVIAL), a subsidiary of GMR Airports Ltd. Situated near Bhogapuram in the Vizianagaram district, it is located approximately 45 km to the northeast of Visakhapatnam. The airport is designed to function as a major gateway for both domestic and international travellers, providing state-of-the-art amenities and improved regional connectivity. The development of this airport is expected to have a significant impact on the economic growth and tourism in the area. Read on to learn everything you need to know about this international airport.
Bhogapuram Airport: Overview
The Bhogapuram Airport is an ongoing construction project for an international airport located in Bhogapuram, Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh. The foundation stone for this airport was laid on May 3, 2023, and a Bhoomi Pujan ceremony was conducted on November 1, 2023. This new greenfield airport is estimated to incur costs amounting to Rs 4,592 crore. It is situated approximately 60 km north of Visakhapatnam (Vizag) and occupies a sprawling 2,203-acre site. The development of this airport project follows the principles of Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) and operates under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The airport is being developed according to a phased master plan, with the ultimate goal of accommodating up to 18 million passengers per annum (MPPA). In addition to the passenger terminal, the airport will feature state-of-the-art cargo facilities to support export operations efficiently. The airport will facilitate streamlined cargo operations and provide a wide array of services for both domestic and international travellers. In November 2023, Larsen & Toubro was awarded the civil construction contract for the airport’s development.
Bhogapuram Airport: Project details
| Name | Bhogapuram International Airport |
| Location | Bhogapuram, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India |
| Status | Under construction |
| Owner | GMR Airports Ltd |
| Civil construction contractor | L&T |
| Area | 2,203 acre |
| Project cost | Rs 4,592 crore |
| Passenger handling capacity | 18 million passengers per annum |
Bhogapuram Airport: Status
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) granted technical approval for the project site in June 2015. The request for proposals (RFP) for the project was issued in July 2016. A pre-bid meeting was conducted in August 2018, which saw the interest of 13 developers. Eventually, the government approved the GMR Group to develop the project. The GMR Group also operates the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in New Delhi and the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad.
Originally, the airport was planned to be part of a large aerotropolis covering approximately 5,311 acre of land. This comprehensive plan included the Bhogapuram Airport, cargo facilities, an aviation academy and a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility. However, due to protests by local landowners, the project’s blueprint was revised. The airport will now be constructed on a site of approximately 2,200 acre in and around Bhogapuram, serving the city of Visakhapatnam. The project will be developed under the public-private partnership (PPP) model, with the state retaining a stake in the form of land holdings.
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Bhogapuram International Airport has been obtained. The foundation stone for Bhogapuram Airport was laid on May 3, 2023, and a Bhoomi Pujan ceremony was held on November 1, 2023. In November 2023, Larsen & Toubro was awarded the civil construction contract for the airport’s development. The project is planned to be completed in three stages by 2025. Upon completion of Phase 1, the terminal’s handling capacity is expected to reach 6 million passengers annually. After the conclusion of Phase 2, this capacity will increase to 12 million passengers annually. In Phase 3, the airport is projected to have a total annual passenger capacity of 18 million.
Bhogapuram Airport: Impact on real estate
The upcoming international airport will stimulate economic growth in the North Andhra region. This new development will facilitate the expansion of travel, logistics and the hospitality industry. Air connectivity to international markets will stimulate industrial development in Bhogapuram, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts, resulting in the creation of new employment opportunities and increased residential demand.
Bhogapuram is situated approximately 20 km from Vizianagaram district headquarters, 60 km from the Srikakulam district headquarters and 18 km from the Pydibhimavaram industrial zone. With the introduction of more flights to and from Bhogapuram, conducting business and travel will become more convenient, thus boosting the commercial and residential property market in the surrounding areas. This expansion will also drive commercial activities in Vizianagaram, which is known for textiles and essential commodities, ultimately contributing to the overall development of social and civic infrastructure in the region.
FAQs
When is the expected completion date for Bhogapuram Airport?
Bhogapuram Airport is anticipated to commence its operations by March 2025.
Who are the proprietors of Bhogapuram Airport?
Bhogapuram Airport is jointly owned by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited and the Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation.
How far is GMR Bhogapuram Airport from Vizianagaram?
GMR Bhogapuram Airport is conveniently located just 25 kilometres away from Vizianagaram through NH-43.
What is the total land area allocated for the construction of Bhogapuram Airport?
Bhogapuram Airport's construction is underway on an extensive land spanning an area of 2,200 acres.
In how many phases will Bhogapuram Airport's development be completed?
The development of Bhogapuram Airport is planned to progress in three distinct phases.
How many airports are present in Andhra Pradesh?
Andhra Pradesh boasts a total of six airports, situated in Visakhapatnam, Kadapa, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Rajahmundry and Kurnool.
Which airport is the largest in Andhra Pradesh?
The largest airport in Andhra Pradesh is Vijayawada Airport, which has been renamed as NTR Amaravati International Airport. This expansive airport occupies an area of 1,265 acres.
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