GUWAHATI, Feb 23: The new terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport began commercial operations on Sunday evening, increasing the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity to 13.1 million and strengthening Guwahati’s role as the principal aviation gateway to India’s North-East and onward to South and Southeast Asia. The terminal was inaugurated by Narendra Modi on December 20, 2025.
The operational launch followed phased live trials across check-in, baggage handling, security and aircraft turnaround. The event was attended by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL). A ceremonial boarding pass was issued to the first departing passenger, while an Akasa Air flight from Mumbai marked the first arrival at the new facility.
Speaking at the event, Sarma thanked Gautam Adani for honouring his Rs 50,000 crore investment commitment made during Advantage Assam 2.0, stating that the new terminal would be a “game-changer” for tourism and economic growth in the state. Jeet Adani described the expansion as a milestone reflecting the North-East’s long-term growth trajectory and aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for future-ready infrastructure.
Currently connecting 21 domestic and three international destinations — including Bangkok, Paro and Singapore — the airport handles over 130 aircraft movements daily. With passenger traffic crossing nine million in recent years, the enhanced capacity is expected to support additional routes, increased flight frequencies and expanded international connectivity.
Designed by Indian architect Nuru Karim, the terminal draws inspiration from Assam’s kopou phool (foxtail orchid) and incorporates over 140 metric tonnes of bamboo, reflecting regional craftsmanship and cultural identity. The design received the International Architecture Award 2025 for integrating local heritage with modern infrastructure.
The airport is operated by AAHL through its subsidiary Guwahati International Airport Limited, as part of its nationwide portfolio of airports.
