The name of Ayodhya Airport has been changed to Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, embracing the spirit of the legendary sage. The Uttar Pradesh government has not just transformed it into an airport but also a cultural hub inspired by the epic Ramayana. This decision follows the renaming of Ayodhya Railway Station to Ayodhya Dham Junction .

Before the inauguration ceremony, security at Ayodhya Airport has been significantly enhanced. The Uttar Pradesh government, gearing up for the unveiling on December 30, 2023, has chosen Vehant Technologies to deploy security equipment, with 7 machines already stationed at Maharishi Valmiki International Airport.

Prior to the Ram Temple inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to inaugurate Ayodhya Airport on December 30, 2023. Following the airport inauguration, he will lead a roadshow and address a public gathering in the temple city after visiting Ayodhya Railway Station. As part of his visit, PM Modi is also expected to inaugurate the renovated Ayodhya Railway Station.

About Ayodhya Airport

Ayodhya International Airport is a significant aviation project in the historic city of Ayodhya, aimed at enhancing connectivity, promoting tourism, and boosting economic development in the region. It is not just an airport but also a cultural landmark, named after the saint Maharishi Valmiki, the author of the epic Ramayana.

The construction project, located approximately 8 km from the birthplace of Lord Rama, is expected to be grandly inaugurated in December 2023. The airport is designed to serve as a convenient entry point for travelers visiting other parts of Uttar Pradesh, such as Lucknow, Varanasi, and Allahabad (Prayagraj).

Construction Phases by the Airports Authority of India (AAI)

The construction of Ayodhya Airport is divided into three phases:

1. Construction of a 6000-square-meter terminal building.
2. Widening and expansion of the runway to 2200 meters in length and 45 meters in width, with shoulders on both sides measuring 7.5 meters.
3. Construction of an apron for AT72 ATR 72 aircraft, measuring 40 meters x M0 meters.
4. Construction of a link taxi track measuring 50 meters x 23 meters to connect the runway and apron.
5. Construction of an isolation bay measuring 93 meters x 96 meters.
6. Phase one allows the airport to handle 832 model aircraft.
7. Construction of an airport control tower and an anti-hijack control room.
8. Planning for a fire watch tower, taxiway e, and a fire station.

Ayodhya Airport (Ayodhya International Airport): Terminal Details

The terminal’s design incorporates modern elements alongside traditional design features, representing the essence of Ramayana and showcasing sculptures on different heights of the terminal’s roof. Elaborate pillars adorned with depictions of significant events from the Ramayana will greet travelers. The terminal will boast eight check-in counters, a baggage conveyor belt, and an X-ray baggage scanning system for the convenience of passengers. Additionally, environmental features such as solar-powered electricity, rainwater harvesting, and other eco-friendly practices will be implemented.

Other Updates on Ayodhya Airport

On December 30, 2023, the first flight landing at Ayodhya Airport will be operated by IndiGo Airlines, providing domestic connections to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. International flights are expected to commence in the second phase. The government has approved a fivefold expansion of the airport, including a new terminal building covering 6250 square meters, capable of handling 500 passengers at once. The authorities have also revealed plans for a four-aircraft parking bay.

The construction of Ayodhya Airport has entered its final phase, with parking and runway construction completed, and the terminal building nearing completion. Beautification work is currently underway, and the Airport Authority awaits the final approval from DGCA for the commencement of flight operations, expected to start soon.

Ahead of the Ram Temple inauguration, Ayodhya Airport is set to commence operations by December 2023, allowing easy travel for pilgrims and visitors to attend the grand event in January 2024. In the first phase, flights connecting four metro cities—Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad—will be initiated. The second phase will witness the launch of international flights. The Central Government has sanctioned a fivefold expansion for the airport, with the new terminal building expected to be operational by January 2024.

The exciting news is that with these flight operations, pilgrims can easily reach Ayodhya to participate in the inauguration of the Ram Temple in January 2024. The inauguration ceremony is anticipated to be a momentous occasion, and Ayodhya Airport will play a crucial role in facilitating the travel of devotees and visitors.

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