Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the ₹5,640-crore Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in the state's aviation infrastructure and strengthening connectivity along India's eastern coast.
Developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the greenfield airport has been designed to handle 60 lakh passengers annually in its initial phase. Strategically located near Visakhapatnam, it is expected to ease pressure on the existing airport while improving domestic and international connectivity for north coastal Andhra Pradesh.
The project is expected to provide a major boost to tourism, trade, logistics, investment and employment, besides supporting the state's long-term economic growth. It also aligns with the Centre's broader vision of expanding aviation infrastructure to improve regional connectivity and facilitate economic development.
The passenger terminal has been equipped with advanced technologies aimed at providing a seamless travel experience. These include Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled systems, Building Information Modelling (BIM), Airside 4.0 technologies, an Airport Predictive Operations Centre (APOC), biometric passenger processing, automated baggage handling systems and intelligent operational monitoring solutions. These technologies are expected to improve operational efficiency, passenger convenience and airport safety.
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Sustainability has been a key focus in the airport's design and construction. The project incorporates a 5 MW solar power plant, energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, waste management facilities, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and smart building management systems. The terminal has been developed in accordance with green building standards and is registered with the US Green Building Council (USGBC).
The airport's architecture reflects Andhra Pradesh's cultural identity. The terminal draws inspiration from the state's traditional Chuttilu cottages and the scenic beauty of the Araku Valley, while its distinctive flowing roof has been designed to resemble the graceful movement of a flying fish, blending local heritage with modern airport design.
The inauguration is expected to transform Bhogapuram into an important aviation hub, enhancing connectivity across southern and eastern India while attracting greater investment and creating new economic opportunities. Officials said the airport has been designed with future expansion in mind to meet rising passenger demand and support Andhra Pradesh's growing role in India's aviation sector.
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