Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the ₹4,500 crore Bhogapuram International Airport near Visakhapatnam before the end of July, according to Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, signalling the completion of one of Andhra Pradesh's largest aviation infrastructure projects.
July 8, 2026
The announcement came after the minister reviewed the airport's readiness on Tuesday with district officials and representatives of GMR Group. According to The Hindu, officials informed the minister that all statutory inspections and mandatory tests had been completed, leaving the airport ready for full-fledged commercial operations.
The upcoming airport is expected to strengthen aviation infrastructure in North Andhra, improve regional connectivity and support economic activity across the coastal region.
Final review confirms operational readiness
During his visit, K. Rammohan Naidu inspected passenger facilities, including the terminal lounge, before holding a review meeting with Vizianagaram Collector S. Ramsundar Reddy, senior government officials and representatives of the airport developer.
According to The Hindu, officials told the minister that:
- All statutory inspections and regulatory tests have been completed.
- The airport is ready for commercial operations.
- Approach roads and supporting infrastructure have been completed to facilitate passenger access.
The Collector also informed the minister that transport connectivity to the airport had been put in place to enable smooth travel for passengers once services commence.
A major aviation investment for Andhra Pradesh
Developed by GMR Group, the new international airport has been constructed at an estimated cost of ₹4,500 crore on 2,200 acres of land provided by the Andhra Pradesh government.
According to The Hindu, the airport is located around 60 kilometres from the existing Visakhapatnam Airport.
To improve accessibility, the State government has also developed a dedicated road connecting Visakhapatnam beach to Bhogapuram, reducing travel time to the new airport.
The project is expected to complement the region's expanding transport infrastructure while supporting future passenger and economic growth.
Government sees wider economic benefits
Speaking to the media after the review, K. Rammohan Naidu said the airport would become an important driver of development across North Andhra.
According to The Hindu, the minister said the airport's location on the Visakhapatnam-Srikakulam highway would provide improved connectivity for Vizianagaram while encouraging broader economic activity across the region.
The government expects the airport to support:
- Regional connectivity
- Tourism
- Trade and commerce
- Investment
- Economic development across North Andhra
User fee continues to attract attention
While the airport is operationally ready, its User Development Fee (UDF) has drawn criticism from passenger groups.
According to The Hindu, the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) has approved the following charges for passengers using the airport:
- ₹835 for domestic departures
- ₹355 for domestic arrivals
- ₹1,255 for international departures
- ₹545 for international arrivals
Air travellers' associations have sought a reduction in the fee, saying it is the highest among airports in India. The minister said the charges had been determined after considering the airport's financial viability and other relevant factors.
Inauguration date yet to be formally confirmed
Although K. Rammohan Naidu said the Prime Minister is expected to inaugurate the airport before the end of July, an official date has not yet been announced.
According to The Hindu, the launch schedule has shifted more than once. The Andhra Pradesh government had earlier sought an inauguration on July 5, while speculation later centred on July 26. Officials said no formal date had been confirmed, and the Prime Minister's Office is yet to announce the inauguration schedule.
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