Srinagar, Jun 13 (KNO): Srinagar International Airport is set for a major transformation with a Rs 1,667-crore expansion project aimed at significantly enhancing passenger handling capacity, modernising infrastructure and elevating the overall travel experience, Airport Director Javed Anjum said on Saturday.
Speaking ahead of the Airports Authority of India’s (AAI) observance of Yatri Suvidha Diwas on June 15, Anjum, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said Srinagar Airport has witnessed remarkable growth in passenger traffic, air connectivity and cargo operations over the years and continues to play a pivotal role in promoting tourism, trade and economic development in Jammu and Kashmir.
"The airport has emerged as the principal aviation gateway to Kashmir, connecting the Valley with major destinations across the country while supporting sectors such as tourism, hospitality, handicrafts, horticulture and local commerce," the Director told the media persons.
He said the annual passenger traffic at Srinagar Airport increased from 2.04 million passengers in 2014-15 to 4.47 million passengers in 2024-25, reflecting sustained growth in demand for air travel and improved connectivity.
“Although passenger traffic declined to 3.38 million during 2025-26 following the Pahalgam incident, the airport continues to remain among the busiest airports in northern India and a key contributor to the region's tourism-driven economy,” he said.
Anjum said enhanced flight operations and improved connectivity have strengthened regional integration and facilitated easier access for tourists, business travellers and residents alike.
Highlighting future development plans, the Airport Director said the Government of India (GoI) has approved a Rs 1,667-crore expansion project that will transform Srinagar Airport into a modern aviation facility comparable with international standards.
Under the project, the airport’s passenger handling capacity will increase from the existing 2.5 million passengers per annum (MPPA) to 10 MPPA, enabling it to cater to future growth in passenger traffic.
The expansion will also increase the terminal area from 20,000 square metres to 71,000 square metres, creating a spacious and technologically advanced terminal designed to provide greater comfort and convenience to passengers.
“In addition, the upgraded airport will feature a multi-level car parking facility capable of accommodating 1,000 vehicles and infrastructure enabling it to handle 15 aircraft simultaneously, substantially improving operational efficiency and passenger movement,” Anjum said.
The Director said the new terminal will be developed at par with international standards and will greatly enhance passenger experience while strengthening the airport's ability to meet future requirements.
He added that the project is expected to be completed within four years and will mark one of the most significant infrastructure upgrades undertaken at the airport.
Anjum further said that, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir administration and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), a dedicated airport access corridor connecting the facility with the Ring Road is also being planned to improve accessibility and ease traffic congestion around the airport.
He said the Srinagar Airport has simultaneously focused on passenger convenience through a range of modern facilities and technology-driven initiatives.
"Passengers currently have access to DigiYatra, self-baggage drop counters, free Wi-Fi, meet-and-greet facilities, EV charging stations, complimentary e-cart services, Flybrary, laptop workstations, smoking lounges, children's activity zones, and various shopping and dining outlets," he said.
Annual cargo handling has increased from nearly 7,000 metric tonnes to over 10,500 metric tonnes during the last five years, with an annual capacity of approximately 40,000 metric tonnes.
"Srinagar Airport will celebrate Yatri Suvidi Diwas on June 15 with passenger-centric programmes. Meanwhile, a phased operational shutdown has been planned for runway resurfacing, with flight operations suspended every Monday and Tuesday from July 1 to September 30, and complete closure from October 1 to October 16," Anjum said—(KNO)