The Airports Authority of India (AAI) plans to expand the Ayodhya airport at a cost of Rs 1,625 crore to increase its passenger handling capacity.

The project aims to significantly enhance capacity and infrastructure, catering to the rising demand.

The expansion, slated for completion within 28 months, will see the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity skyrocket from 0.16 million passengers per annum (MPPA) to 6 MPPA.

This move comes as Ayodhya experiences a major influx of visitors following the grand opening of the Ram Mandir.

To support the growing air traffic, the number of aircraft bays will more than double, increasing from 8 to 18. This expansion will enable smoother flight operations and accommodate more airlines, further enhancing connectivity to the city.

With a significant rise in footfall, the total airport area will expand from 141 hectares to 331 hectares, ensuring improved facilities and operational efficiency. The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has already granted environmental clearance, paving the way for rapid execution.