Surat International Airport marked a historic moment on Monday as it initiated domestic flight operations from its newly inaugurated terminal, constructed for Rs 353 crore. The inaugural flights from Delhi and Hyderabad, operated by Indigo, heralded a significant milestone in the airport’s operational history.
According to airport officials, the first flight from Delhi arrived with 177 passengers and departed with 161 passengers, while the second flight from Hyderabad saw 180 passengers both arriving and departing from Surat. Additionally, an Air India Express flight to Dubai is scheduled for departure on Tuesday.
The inauguration was celebrated with a ceremonial lamp lighting and cake-cutting ceremony, graced by the presence of Surat Airport director Rupesh Kumar, airport staff, and airline officials.
Surat Airport director Rupesh Kumar expressed the long-awaited fulfilment of the demand for a substantial airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 17. “Today, we are starting the new terminal after cake cutting by the new passenger. We have also given flowers to the first ride traveller,” he stated.
Passengers were welcomed with flowers for the first domestic flight from the new terminal, eliciting expressions of gratitude and happiness. A traveller named Aarohi remarked, “I am very happy and thankful to PM Narendra Modi and the state government. This direct flight will increase our business.”
The newly operational terminal, built for Rs 353 crore, is set to accommodate 11 daily flights. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the terminal on December 17, providing a boost to Surat’s connectivity. The city is presently linked to 14 domestic cities and international destinations via Sharjah.
The new terminal, designed with local culture and heritage in mind, showcases Rogan, Zari, Brocade embroidery, wooden carvings, and mosaic work depicting the famous Kite festival of Gujarat. With a runway capable of handling Code ‘C’ type aircraft, the terminal can host 1,200 domestic passengers and 600 international passengers during peak hours, with provisions for future expansions.
Sustainability features such as an insulated Roofing System, Canopies for energy saving, a Double Glazing Unit for heat gain reduction, Rain Water Harvesting, water treatment and sewage treatment plants, and the use of recycled water for landscaping and solar power plant contribute to the terminal’s modern and eco-friendly design. The upgraded facility aims to enhance the overall passenger experience with a nod to the region’s rich cultural heritage.