The development of Noida International Airport (NIA) in Jewar is set to enter its next major phase, with draft plans for Phase 3 and Phase 4 revealing a large-scale land acquisition of 1,857 hectares, according to official reports. The expansion is expected to impact over 17,000 families, many of whom will need to vacate homes, farms, and public structures to make way for additional terminals, runways, and support infrastructure.
Currently, the airport’s terminal building is under active construction, with completion of Phase 1 targeted by mid-2026. While the ongoing construction is not directly tied to the steel industry, the project features extensive use of structural steel, particularly in the terminal superstructure, cargo logistics hubs, and maintenance facilities. As the airport scales up in future phases, the demand for steel-intensive infrastructure will continue to grow, supporting India’s broader vision for smart and sustainable airport development.
The upcoming phases aim to increase NIA’s total handling capacity to over 70 million passengers per year, requiring the construction of additional passenger terminals, a third runway, cargo facilities, MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) zones, and commercial areas. Authorities have confirmed that the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) will spearhead the land acquisition process, with compensation and rehabilitation packages in discussion.
While the expansion promises significant economic benefits for the region—through increased air connectivity, trade, employment, and industrial growth—it also raises concerns over large-scale displacement and resettlement. Civic bodies are expected to conduct public consultations and initiate social impact assessments before finalising acquisition terms.
The Noida International Airport project is being executed by Zurich Airport International AG in collaboration with Indian agencies and is projected to become one of the largest airports in Asia upon full completion.
