GMR Airports Ltd has unveiled an ambitious multi-phase expansion roadmap for Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur, marking a significant addition to its airport portfolio and strengthening its presence in India’s growing aviation sector.

The announcement comes after the successful completion of the airport’s privatisation process, with Maharashtra Airport Development Company completing the handover of around 1,000 hectares of land and declaring the Commercial Operations Date on June 25, 2026.

As part of the initial phase, GMR Airports will invest about INR 300 crore to modernise the existing airport and improve passenger facilities. The upgrades, to be completed within 12-18 months, include refurbishment of terminal facilities, additional check-in counters and self-check-in kiosks, expanded security zones, upgraded washrooms, dedicated lounges and improved passenger access.

The company plans to increase passenger handling capacity from the current three million passengers annually to 30 million passengers during the 30-year concession period, with the potential to scale up to 50 million passengers in the future.

The roadmap also includes developing Nagpur into a major cargo and logistics hub with a long-term cargo handling capacity of 150,000 metric tonnes annually, leveraging the city’s strategic location and the MIHAN ecosystem.

Subsequent phases include the construction of a new integrated terminal, cargo facilities, commercial developments and a second runway, alongside new air traffic control and utility infrastructure.

GMR Airports said the project is expected to boost trade, tourism and investment while reinforcing Nagpur’s position as a key aviation and logistics gateway in Central India.