Ahmedabad: The first aircraft successfully landed at the under-construction greenfield airport in the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), marking a significant milestone in the development of one of Gujarat’s most ambitious infrastructure projects. The trial landing of a VT-CNS aircraft, conducted by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), was completed successfully, paving the way for the next phase of the airport’s development.

Following the safe landing, the aircraft was accorded a traditional water cannon salute by airport authorities. Two fire tenders created a ceremonial water arch to welcome the aircraft, symbolising the commencement of flight operations at the upcoming airport.

The successful trial is being viewed as a major step towards operationalising Dholera Airport, which is expected to emerge as a key aviation and logistics hub in Gujarat. Once operational, the airport is expected to support industrial growth, attract investments, boost trade and tourism, and generate employment opportunities across the Dholera SIR and surrounding regions.

The airport is also expected to help ease air traffic congestion at existing airports, including Ahmedabad, while enhancing the state’s domestic and international air connectivity.

Local residents and industry representatives hailed the successful landing and subsequent take-off as a landmark achievement, describing it as another major boost to Dholera’s long-term development vision.

According to project details, the Dholera International Cargo Airport is being developed with a 3.2-km runway and parking stands capable of accommodating up to 12 aircraft. The airport will also feature a 10,700-square-metre air cargo terminal, including 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. Separate facilities are being developed for import and export operations to support future cargo traffic and logistics activities. DeshGujarat