Posted 2026-01-21 by DMC/ Dholera Metro City, Dholera Smart City
The Dholera International Airport is emerging as one of India’s most important greenfield aviation projects. As per the latest update in 2026, the airport is under active construction and progressing rapidly as a key component of the Dholera Smart City and Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR).
Designed to reduce congestion at Ahmedabad Airport and support industrial, passenger, and cargo traffic, Dholera International Airport is expected to begin operations in early 2026, with full completion targeted by late 2026. Once operational, it will play a vital role in transforming Gujarat’s economic and logistics landscape.
This article provides a complete and latest update on Dholera International Airport 2026, including construction progress, opening timeline, location details, facilities, economic impact, and investment opportunities.
• Project Status: Under construction
• Construction Pace: Rapid, on a war footing
• Phase 1 Opening: Expected in early 2026
• Full Completion: Targeted by late 2026
• Purpose: Passenger and cargo operations
• Location: Near Navagam village, close to Dholera SIR
As of early 2026, construction work at Dholera International Airport is progressing at a fast pace with strong backing from the Government of Gujarat and the Central Government. The project is being treated as a strategic infrastructure priority due to its role in easing pressure on Ahmedabad Airport and supporting Dholera Smart City.
Key construction activities underway include:
• Runway development
• Terminal building structure
• Cargo handling facilities
• Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower
• Supporting infrastructure such as internal roads, utilities, and safety systems
Authorities have confirmed that multiple work segments are being executed simultaneously to meet the targeted timelines.
When Will Dholera International Airport Start Operations? As per the latest Dholera International Airport update 2026, the project follows a phase-wise operational plan.
Phase 1 – Early 2026
The first phase of the airport is expected to become operational in early 2026, allowing initial passenger and cargo services.
Full Completion – Late 2026
By late 2026, the airport is expected to be fully ready with expanded terminal capacity, complete cargo infrastructure, and enhanced operational capabilities.
Direct Answer for Readers:
As per current updates, Dholera International Airport is expected to start initial operations in early 2026, with full completion planned by the end of 2026.
The airport is also being planned to remain event-ready for major national and international requirements, including large-scale events if applicable within the timeline.
Dholera International Airport Location Details
The Dholera International Airport location is near Navagam village, approximately 20 kilometers from Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR).
Why This Location Is Strategic
• Close proximity to Dholera Smart City
• Easy access to industrial and manufacturing zones
• Strong road connectivity to Ahmedabad and surrounding regions
• Ideal positioning for logistics, exports, and cargo movement
The location ensures long-term scalability without urban congestion.
The project is managed by Dholera International Airport Company Limited (DIACL), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).
DIACL Partners
• Airports Authority of India (AAI)
• Government of Gujarat
• National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT)
This collaboration ensures professional execution, transparency, and alignment with India’s national infrastructure vision.
Modern Passenger Terminal
The airport will feature a scalable passenger terminal designed to handle future growth. Key features include :
• Modern check-in and boarding systems
• Efficient baggage handling
• Passenger-friendly design and amenities
• High safety and security standards
Advanced Cargo and Logistics Infrastructure
Dholera International Airport is planned as a major cargo hub for western India. Cargo facilities will support:
• Industrial exports
• Manufacturing supply chains
• MSME logistics
• E-commerce and time-sensitive shipments
This is particularly beneficial for industries operating within Dholera SIR.
State-of-the-Art ATC Tower
An advanced Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower will manage :
• Aircraft movements
• Airspace safety
• High-frequency operations
Reducing Load on Ahmedabad Airport
Ahmedabad Airport currently operates close to its capacity.
Dholera International Airport will:
• Divert passenger traffic
• Shift cargo operations
• Improve overall air traffic efficiency
Supporting Dholera Smart City Vision
The airport is a cornerstone of the Dholera Smart City master plan, making the region more attractive to:
• Global investors
• Manufacturing companies
• Logistics and warehousing firms
Job Creation and Employment Growth
The airport is expected to generate:
• Thousands of direct jobs
• Indirect employment in logistics, hospitality, transport, and services
Boost to Industrial and Corporate Investment
Major investors such as Tata Group and TATA Power, already present in Dholera Smart City, will benefit from:
• Faster supply chain movement
• Lower logistics costs
• Improved global connectivity
Strengthening Exports and Supply Chains
With modern cargo infrastructure, the airport will:
• Improve export turnaround times
• Enhance India’s trade competitiveness
• Support MSMEs and large manufacturers
The development of Dholera International Airport has significantly increased interest in:
• Residential plotting projects
• Commercial developments
• Industrial land investments
Land near Dholera SIR and airport connectivity corridors is witnessing rising demand due to long-term growth prospects.
The airport is seamlessly integrated with:
• Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR)
• Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC)
• Dedicated road and freight connectivity
This integration ensures sustainable urban and industrial development.
The airport is designed for long-term scalability, allowing :
• Additional runways
• Expanded terminal capacity
• Increased cargo handling
This future-ready design ensures the airport can meet demand for decades.
Is Dholera International Airport operational in 2026?
As of early 2026, the airport is under construction, with initial operations expected to begin in early 2026.
How far is Dholera International Airport from Ahmedabad?
The airport is approximately 100 km from Ahmedabad and around 20 km from Dholera SIR.
Will Dholera Airport handle international flights?
Yes, it is planned as an international airport with both passenger and cargo handling capabilities.
The Dholera International Airport latest update 2026 confirms that the project is progressing rapidly and is close to becoming operational. With strong government backing, modern infrastructure, and strategic integration with Dholera Smart City, the airport is set to transform Gujarat’s aviation, logistics, and investment landscape.
Once operational, it will not only reduce pressure on Ahmedabad Airport but also position Dholera as a global investment and industrial hub.
Planning a Visit or Investment in Dholera?
If you are planning to:
• Visit Dholera International Airport area
• Explore Dholera Smart City
• Invest in residential or commercial plots
Kindly contact the most trusted developer: Dholera Metro City Group
They provide verified guidance, secure investment options, and organized site visits aligned with Dholera’s future growth.
