Ahmedabad: Demolition of the T3 building at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International (SVPI) Airport has begun to make way for a new integrated terminal building (NITB), marking the start of the airport’s biggest terminal infrastructure expansion.The NITB is part of a phased redevelopment plan to expand Ahmedabad airport’s passenger-handling capacity to 2 crore passengers annually, compared with the combined capacity of around 1 crore at the existing T1 and T2 terminals. The facility is expected to become operational by 2029-2030.“The first phase is being built on the site adjoining the existing domestic terminal and extending from the T3 side. Demolition of T3 and excavation work are now under way as the site is cleared for construction,” said a source familiar with the development.The NITB is designed to bring domestic and international operations under one roof. The plans include larger check-in areas, additional security checkpoints, bigger lounges and DigiYatra infrastructure to facilitate faster passenger movement.The project cost is estimated at more than Rs 3,000 crore, according to submissions made by the airport operator to Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA). The final estimate, however, may vary.AERA officials recently met at SVPI Airport to review the ongoing work and plans for the NITB.The redevelopment will also require changes to some existing airport facilities. The GujSAIL terminal is proposed to be shifted to another location to free up space for the NITB. The relocation, however, will be undertaken in the second phase, a source familiar with the development said.The airport expansion aims to meet projected passenger growth and support Ahmedabad’s long-term international connectivity needs. The city is also scheduled to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
