WWWAS Pushes for Surat Airport Privatization

Surat : The “We Work for Working Airport Surat” (WWWAS) group has made a compelling appeal to the Union Civil Aviation Minister and related departments, advocating for the inclusion of Surat International Airport in the Greenfield Airport and Bilateral Agreement. The group has called for the airport to be handed over to a private operator, emphasizing the need to maximize its potential and support Surat’s growth into a global city.

WWWAS has stressed the importance of planning for a Greenfield airport in Surat, arguing that the current airport, despite potential upgrades, will likely be insufficient to meet the city’s future needs. With Surat’s rapid economic and demographic growth, the group believes that only a newly planned airport, designed with a long-term vision, can adequately support the anticipated surge in both passenger and cargo traffic.

“A Greenfield airport would not only meet the increasing demand but also stimulate further economic growth, attract international investments, and boost tourism in the region,” said a WWWAS spokesperson. The group has proposed conducting a feasibility study and master planning for the Greenfield airport to ensure it becomes a state-of-the-art facility capable of supporting Surat’s aspirations as a global hub.

Given Surat’s strategic importance in the national economy, WWWAS is urging immediate intervention to expedite the privatization of Surat International Airport and to begin planning for a new Greenfield facility. The group believes that these steps are crucial for the city to maintain its competitive edge in the global market.

Privatization for Enhanced Efficiency: WWWAS also emphasized the importance of handing over Surat International Airport to a private operator to fully realize its potential. The group pointed out that private operators have a proven track record of managing and developing airports with high efficiency. This, they argue, would ensure better services and economic benefits for the airport, transforming it into a world-class facility.

The group believes that private participation could significantly enhance the airport’s services and connectivity, ultimately benefiting both passengers and the broader economy. “Given the economic importance of Surat, the involvement of a private operator can help transform the airport into a world-class facility, providing superior services and connectivity to passengers,” the spokesperson added.

Inclusion in Bilateral Agreements: WWWAS is also advocating for the inclusion of Surat International Airport in bilateral agreements, allowing foreign airlines to operate from the city. This, the group argues, is essential given the reluctance of domestic airlines to operate international flights from Surat and the hesitance of foreign airlines to enter the market.

Including Surat in the point of call agreements would provide significant benefits to the airport and its passengers, enabling more direct international connections. The group has formally requested the Civil Aviation Ministry to consider this inclusion as a matter of urgency, emphasizing that it would enhance Surat’s connectivity with the global market.