Union Minister for Civil Aviation, K Ram Mohan Naidu, on Monday (29 September) announced that a new terminal at Vijayawada International Airport is set to be inaugurated, aimed at meeting growing passenger demand and enhancing traveller experience.

The Minister stated that the New Integrated Terminal Building (NITB), currently under construction, is expected to be completed within the next two to three months.

Once operational, the terminal will significantly increase the airport’s passenger handling capacity.

Naidu also emphasised that airport development extends beyond runways and terminals. The Minister outlined plans to expand air connectivity, announcing new domestic flights from Vijayawada to Ahmedabad, Varanasi, Kochi, and Pune.

He also revealed that a new international connection to Singapore will be launched soon, further integrating the city with global air networks.

A UDAN Yatri Cafe was also inaugurated at the airport by the minister to offer passengers affordable snacks and drinking water.

Vijayawada has now become the 7th airport in India after Kolkata, Pune, Chennai, Bhubaneswar, Ahmedabad and Hollongi to have a UDAN Yatri Cafe.

The event was attended by airport officials including Director M Lakshmikant Reddy, who provided additional updates on the terminal’s progress and future developments.

Naidu also reflected on India’s aviation growth over the past decade, pointing out that the country now has 160 operational airports compared to just 74 ten years ago, allowing even smaller towns to enjoy flight services.