Indian Bureaucracy News, Lucknow, September 28, 2025 | The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is undertaking a major expansion at Babatpur’s Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi, where work is underway to build Uttar Pradesh’s largest terminal. With an investment of ₹900 crore, the project will enable the airport to handle 5,000 passengers at a time and over 60 lakh annually, effectively doubling its current capacity of 30–35 lakh.
AAI officials said the new terminal, spread across 75,000 sq. m., is being built by Ahluwalia Construction and is scheduled for completion within 36 months. Construction began in April 2024. Once operational, the three-storey facility will include eight aerobridges, 72 check-in counters, eight conveyor belts, and 14 security counters.
The airport currently handles around 12,000–13,000 passengers daily through 66 flights, reflecting a three- to fourfold increase in traffic since 2010 when the existing terminal was commissioned. AAI noted that the expansion will help meet rising demand, particularly from religious and cultural tourism linked to Kashi Vishwanath, Sarnath, and the Ganga ghats.
The design of the new terminal reflects the heritage of Varanasi, with a façade inspired by the shikhara of Kashi Vishwanath temple, large glass windows for natural light, and interiors featuring local art, Vedic motifs, and cultural depictions.
AAI continues to manage and operate all facilities at Babatpur Airport, including domestic, international, and cargo terminals. Current services include baggage and wheelchair assistance, outlets selling handicrafts and local products, and multiple food options. Connectivity with the city, 18.9 km away, is provided through prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses.
According to AAI, the expansion will significantly strengthen connectivity in eastern Uttar Pradesh while aligning with the government’s broader goal of scaling up aviation infrastructure to support India’s growing passenger traffic.