Guwahati Terminal Expansion Strengthens Assam Connectivity, Lifts Capacity to 13.1 Million

The new terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport boosts Guwahati's aviation capacity to 13.1 million passengers annually, strengthening North East India’s connectivity with domestic and international destinations. Digital processing, new facilities, and regional design highlight Assam's cultural identity while enabling future growth.

The new terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati began commercial operations on Sunday, significantly enhancing Assam’s aviation capacity and strengthening connectivity to India’s North-East and neighbouring international destinations. With the commissioning of the new facility, the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity has increased to 13.1 million, reinforcing Guwahati’s role as the primary aviation gateway to the strategically important North-Eastern region.

The terminal became operational following a phased transition process that included extensive system validation, live trials of check-in, baggage handling, security and aircraft turnaround operations to ensure seamless deployment. The terminal was earlier inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 20, 2025. The commencement of operations was attended by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Airport Holdings Ltd, along with airport officials, frontline workers and members of local communities.

The operational launch was marked by the issuance of a ceremonial boarding pass to the first departing passenger and the arrival of an Akasa Air flight from Mumbai at the new terminal. Cultural performances and traditional ceremonies were also organised to reflect Assam’s heritage and community participation. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the new terminal represents a major step forward in strengthening Assam’s infrastructure and tourism potential. He also acknowledged the Adani Group’s commitment to invest Rs 50,000 crore in the state, stating that the upgraded facility would play a key role in driving economic growth and enhancing the region’s connectivity.

Jeet Adani said the terminal expansion reflects the growing demand for air travel in the region and aligns with the broader vision of building future-ready infrastructure. He described the development as an important milestone for Assam and the North-East, contributing to improved connectivity and regional development. Guwahati airport has emerged as one of India’s fastest-growing non-metro airports, handling more than nine million passengers annually in recent years. It currently connects 21 domestic destinations and three international cities, including Bangkok, Paro and Singapore, and manages over 130 aircraft movements daily.

The expanded capacity is expected to support additional routes, increase flight frequencies and strengthen Guwahati’s position as a regional aviation hub connecting the North-East with mainland India and Southeast Asia. The new terminal also integrates digital technologies, including Digi Yatra-enabled passenger processing, centralised communication systems and integrated wayfinding solutions to enhance passenger convenience. Retail outlets and food and beverage services will be introduced in phases.

Architecturally, the terminal reflects the cultural identity of the North-East, drawing inspiration from Assam’s kopou phool and traditional bamboo craftsmanship. More than 140 metric tonnes of bamboo have been used in the structure, incorporating regional design elements associated with Assam and neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh. Operated by Guwahati International Airport Limited, a subsidiary of Adani Airport Holdings Ltd, the airport continues to play a vital role in improving connectivity, boosting tourism and supporting economic development across Assam and the wider North-Eastern region. The operationalisation of the new terminal marks a significant milestone in India’s aviation infrastructure expansion and is expected to further strengthen the North-East’s integration with national and global air networks.