Surat Airport Authority Scrambles to Meet Terminal Expansion Deadline

Surat : In another setback for the city of Surat, the Surat airport authorities have come under scrutiny from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for their repeated failures to meet deadlines. The airport’s new terminal building, crucial for international flights, has faced numerous delays since July 2022.

The extension project, which received Rs 350 crore in funding from AAI for holistic development, including terminal expansion, parallel taxi tracks, and apron upgrades, was initially slated for completion in July 2022. However, subsequent deadlines in December 2022, March 2023, and July 2023 have been missed.

With increasing pressure, a team of AAI officials has been closely monitoring the terminal expansion work over the past month. The Surat airport authorities are now working round the clock to ensure the extended terminal building becomes operational before September 15, following an ultimatum from AAI authorities. Interior finishing touches are also expected to be completed before PM Modi’s visit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the textile building extension at Surat airport in January 2019, promising international connectivity upon its completion. As the city gears up to host the prestigious SDB inauguration, both the SMC and Surat airport authorities face significant challenges to ensure the event proceeds smoothly and showcases the city’s potential on the global stage.