A major milestone has been achieved in the development of the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), one of Gujarat’s most ambitious infrastructure projects. For the first time, an aircraft has successfully landed at the under-construction Greenfield Dholera International Airport.

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The trial landing of the VT-CNS aircraft was conducted by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). This successful operation is expected to pave the way for the next phase of development of Dholera International Airport.

Following the safe landing, the aircraft received a traditional Water Cannon Salute from airport authorities. Two fire tenders created a water arch to welcome the aircraft, symbolizing the beginning of future flight operations at Dholera Airport.

The successful trial is being considered a significant step towards the operationalization of Dholera International Airport.

Dholera to Emerge as an Aviation and Logistics Hub

Once operational, Dholera International Airport is expected to develop into a major aviation and logistics hub in Gujarat. The airport is anticipated to accelerate industrial growth, attract new investments, boost tourism and trade, and create large-scale employment opportunities in Dholera SIR and surrounding regions.

Additionally, the commencement of operations at Dholera International Airport is expected to help reduce air traffic congestion at existing airports, including Ahmedabad.

Features of Dholera International Airport

According to project details, a 3.2-kilometre-long runway is being developed at Dholera International Cargo Airport. The airport will also feature parking stands capable of accommodating 12 aircraft simultaneously.

For cargo operations, a large air cargo terminal covering 10,700 square metres is being developed. This includes a 2,450-square-metre international cargo handling area, an 8,800-square-metre paved area, and a 4,260-square-metre airside cargo ramp.

To support future growth in cargo traffic and logistics activities, separate facilities have also been planned for import and export operations.

Local residents and representatives from the industrial sector have described the successful landing and take-off of the first flight as a historic achievement that will further strengthen the development vision of Dholera.