First Commercial Validation Flight Lands at Bhogapuram International Airport

A historic milestone for aviation in North Andhra Pradesh was achieved on Sunday, January 4, 2026, as the first commercial validation flight touched down at the upcoming Bhogapuram International Airport. According to reporting by The Hindu, the successful landing marks a critical step toward the operationalization of the greenfield facility, which is poised to replace the existing naval enclave in Visakhapatnam for civilian traffic.

The trial flight, operated by Air India using an Airbus A320 aircraft (flight AI3198), arrived from New Delhi carrying Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu and other senior dignitaries. This event signals the beginning of the final testing phase for the airport, officially known as Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, ahead of its scheduled commercial launch later this year.

Operational Readiness and Validation

The landing was not merely ceremonial; it served as a technical validation of the airport’s airside infrastructure. As detailed in reports regarding the event, the flight tested the readiness of the 3,800-meter runway, air traffic control systems, and navigational aids. Upon arrival at approximately 11:10 AM IST, the aircraft was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute.

Union Minister K. Rammohan Naidu described the event as the realization of a long-held regional aspiration. In a statement regarding the landing, he noted:

“It was a moment of pride and the fulfillment of a long-standing dream… The airport will act as a catalyst for economic growth across the region.”

GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL), the developer, confirmed that the landing validates compliance with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) norms. The successful trial paves the way for final regulatory certifications required before passenger operations can commence.

Infrastructure and Future Capacity

Located approximately 45 to 50 kilometers from Visakhapatnam, the new airport is designed to address the limitations of the current civil enclave at INS Dega. Project specifications indicate that Phase 1 has been developed at an estimated cost of ₹4,725 crore. The facility spans roughly 2,200 acres and features a terminal design inspired by the “flying fish” concept, integrating local cultural elements such as Etikoppaka toy art installations.

According to project data, the initial capacity is set at 6 million passengers per annum (MPA), with future expansion plans allowing for scalability up to 40 MPA. The 3.8-kilometer runway is capable of handling wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380, a significant upgrade from the constraints of the current naval airfield.

Transition from INS Dega

Once Bhogapuram becomes fully operational, all civilian commercial flights are expected to shift to the new location. This transition will allow the existing Visakhapatnam Airport to be handed over exclusively to the Indian Navy, thereby enhancing defense capabilities while freeing civilian aviation from military slot restrictions.

AirPro News Analysis

The operationalization of Bhogapuram International Airport represents a pivotal shift in the economic geography of Andhra Pradesh. By moving the primary aviation hub out of the constrained naval base, the region unlocks 24/7 operational capabilities essential for international cargo and long-haul passenger flights. The planned “Aero City” and industrial parks surrounding the airport suggest a strategy to turn the facility into an aerotropolis rather than just a transit point.

Furthermore, the projected creation of 5,000 direct jobs and up to 80,000 indirect jobs highlights the infrastructure’s role as an economic engine. However, the success of this transition will heavily depend on the completion of the 6-lane beach corridor and NH-16 interchange to ensure the 45-minute travel time from Visakhapatnam is a reality, preventing connectivity issues from dampening passenger enthusiasm.

Timeline for Commercial Launch

While the validation flight is a major success, regular passenger services are not immediate. Construction is reported to be approximately 96–97% complete. Official targets place the full commercial opening in June 2026, though Minister Naidu has indicated the possibility of an early launch in May 2026 if final approvals are expedited.

Sources

• The Hindu