Milestone for Andhra Pradesh: First Validation Flight Lands at Bhogapuram’s
A major boost for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from north coastal Andhra Pradesh arrived on January 4, 2026, when the first commercial validation flight successfully landed at the upcoming Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport (ASRIA) in Bhogapuram, just 50 km north of Visakhapatnam. The Air India flight from New Delhi was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute, marking a key step toward operational readiness.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu led the delegation aboard the flight, accompanied by Vizianagaram MP Kalisetti Appala Naidu and senior officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The exercise thoroughly tested the 3.8 km runway (the longest in India), navigational aids, air traffic control systems, and overall infrastructure performance.
Developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL) in PPP mode at an estimated cost of ₹4,700 crore, the greenfield project is now 96% complete. Phase 1 will have an annual capacity of 6 million passengers, with full commercial operations targeted for June 30, 2026.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu welcomed the milestone, calling it “a new chapter in aviation for the state” and highlighting its potential to enhance global connectivity for Uttarandhra. Minister Rammohan Naidu added that the airport will transform Visakhapatnam into the economic gateway of eastern India, generating thousands of direct and indirect jobs, attracting investments, and unlocking tourism opportunities.
A Long-Awaited Dream for the Region
Conceived in 2015 and fast-tracked under successive NDA-aligned governments, the airport overcame earlier delays to reach this stage. Spread across 2,200 acres, it will feature modern passenger terminals, cargo facilities, and an integrated Aero City complete with hotels, MRO facilities, and aviation training academies. A dedicated Aviation, Aerospace, and Defence EduCity nearby will further support skill development.
Once operational, Bhogapuram will ease pressure on Visakhapatnam’s existing airport and offer direct international and domestic links—making travel far more convenient for the large NRI community from Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, and surrounding districts.
Improved connectivity is expected to spur real estate growth, industrial investments, and business opportunities in the region, benefiting families back home and encouraging reverse migration.
As commercial flights draw nearer, the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport stands as a symbol of progress and pride for Andhra Pradesh’s global diaspora. NRIs eagerly await the day when they can land closer to home and contribute even more to Uttarandhra’s bright future.
