Srinagar, April 7, KNT: Srinagar International Airport is set to undergo a major transformation following the approval of a multi-crore development project by the Government of India, with expansion plans aimed at significantly enhancing capacity and passenger facilities, Airport Director Javaid Anjum said.
The project, currently in the planning phase, will focus on large-scale infrastructure expansion and modernization, with authorities emphasizing the importance of detailed execution planning before work begins.
Srinagar Airport
Srinagar International Airport, located in Budgam district, was originally developed as a military airfield before gradually expanding for civilian use. Over the decades, it evolved into the primary aviation hub for the Kashmir Valley, playing a strategic as well as commercial role.
The airport underwent a major transformation in the early 2000s, with a new integrated terminal building becoming operational in 2009, significantly enhancing passenger handling capacity. In 2005, it was granted the status of an international airport, although international operations have remained limited and largely restricted.
A key runway upgrade was completed in 2010 to improve operational capability, particularly for handling larger aircraft and ensuring better safety standards in challenging weather conditions.
Due to its dual-use nature, the airport continues to operate under tight security, with both civilian flights and Indian Air Force operations sharing infrastructure. Over time, it has emerged as a critical connectivity lifeline for the region, especially given the geographical and climatic constraints of Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Anjum, the airport’s operational area will be expanded to nearly four times its present size, marking one of the most substantial upgrades undertaken at the facility in recent years. The number of checking counters is also set to triple, alongside a broader increase in passenger handling infrastructure.
The ongoing runway upgradation forms a key component of the overall development. Officials noted that the last major runway upgrade was carried out in 2010, making the current work a significant step toward improving operational efficiency and safety standards.
Despite the ongoing works, flight operations have largely remained stable during daytime hours. “We had 24 to 30 flights a day, and the number remains the same between 5 pm to 8 pm. Only night flights have been affected,” Anjum said.
The expansion is expected to bring a comprehensive upgrade in facilities, including passenger amenities, operational infrastructure, and service capacity, aligning the airport more closely with international standards.
Highlighting the impact of the project, Anjum said the allocated funds would transform the airport significantly. “It will really look like an international airport,” he said, referring to the scale and scope of the planned upgrades.
The modernization comes amid increasing passenger traffic and the need for enhanced infrastructure to support growing air connectivity in the region. [KNT]
