Kanpur Airport Set for Major Expansion, New Terminal to Match Lucknow and Delhi Standards
By Tajdar H. Zaidi
Kanpur: The Kanpur Airport is poised for a significant transformation, with plans underway for a modern, state-of-the-art terminal inspired by facilities at Lucknow and Delhi airports.
The ambitious expansion aims to turn the Chakeri airport into one of the most advanced aviation hubs in Uttar Pradesh, offering passengers a vastly improved travel experience.
According to officials of the Airports Authority of India, the proposed terminal will feature a shopping mall–style retail zone, premium passenger lounges, and expanded service areas designed to meet international standards.
The project is intended not only to enhance comfort and convenience but also to strengthen Kanpur’s air connectivity and economic prospects.
Additional Land Sought for Expansion
To facilitate the large-scale upgrade, the Airport Authority has formally sought around 100 acres of additional land from the state government.
The Kanpur Development Authority is expected to arrange the required land, which will enable the development of expanded infrastructure and additional aviation facilities.
Officials said that once the land acquisition process begins, architects and technical experts will be able to finalise the layout, design, and structural plans for the new terminal.
This phase will include planning for apron expansion, passenger flow management, and integration of advanced security systems.
Terminal Design on the Lines of Lucknow and Delhi
The new Kanpur airport terminal will closely follow the design philosophy adopted at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport and Indira Gandhi International Airport.
The emphasis will be on creating a spacious, passenger-friendly environment with modern interiors, retail outlets, food courts, and comfortable waiting lounges.
Airport officials said upgraded security infrastructure, seamless check-in systems, and enhanced passenger amenities—similar to those seen at international airports—are an integral part of the proposal.
The goal is to ensure that travelers from Kanpur enjoy facilities comparable to major global aviation hubs.
Boost to Connectivity and International Links
Officials highlighted that the expansion will significantly improve connectivity from Kanpur. With increased apron capacity and a larger terminal, the airport will be able to handle more flights and higher passenger volumes.
This, in turn, is expected to pave the way for improved connections to international destinations.
While direct overseas flights may take time, authorities said that smoother and more frequent connections to cities with major international airports—such as Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata—will make international travel far more convenient for passengers from Kanpur and surrounding regions.
Present Flight Operations Remain Limited
At present, Kanpur airport operates a limited number of domestic routes. Regular flights are available to Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Mumbai.
Of these, services to Delhi and Mumbai operate daily, ensuring consistent connectivity to the national capital and the financial hub.
However, flights to Hyderabad and Bengaluru currently operate only three to four days a week, limiting travel options for passengers.
Officials believe the planned expansion will address these constraints by enabling airlines to introduce more frequent services and new routes.
Once completed, the upgraded Kanpur airport is expected to emerge as a key aviation gateway for central Uttar Pradesh, driving regional development and offering passengers a modern, world-class travel experience.
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