Guwahati Airport Opens New Terminal: Will This Be Northeast India’s Aviation Hub?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new terminal building at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBI) in Guwahati on December 20, 2025. This event marks a major milestone for Assam aviation infrastructure and the entire Northeast region. The new facility is projected as the largest airport terminal in Northeast India. It aims to significantly boost regional connectivity, tourism, and economic activity in Assam. The terminal was constructed at an estimated cost of around ₹4,000 crore.

A New Regional Connectivity Hub

The newly constructed terminal is nearly seven times larger than the existing facility. It is designed to cater to the region’s rapidly growing air traffic. Once fully operational, the terminal is expected to handle up to 13.1 million passengers annually (MPPA) by 2032. This capacity is a major jump from the previous 3.4 MPPA.

Officials plan for the terminal to function as a crucial regional connectivity hub. The focus is on strengthening air links between India and Southeast Asia. This aligns with India’s strategic ‘Act East Policy gateway’. The airport will be capable of handling up to 34 air traffic movements (ATMs) per hour. This represents the highest capacity among airports in the Northeast.

• The total project cost is reported to be around ₹5,000 crore.
• Commercial operations are targeted to begin by the end of February 2026.
• The facility is equipped with an advanced Instrument Landing System (ILS) for safer operations.

Nature-Inspired Architecture and Digital Integration

What sets the Guwahati new terminal building apart is its unique design. It is described as India's first nature-themed airport terminal. The concept is titled “Bamboo Orchids”. Its architecture draws from the landscapes and culture of Northeast India.

Key Design Highlights

• The expansive bamboo vault uses about 140 metric tonnes of locally sourced bamboo.
• The design incorporates elements reflecting indigenous orchids, known as Kopou Phool.
• A unique “Sky Forest” features nearly one lakh indigenous plants, creating a forest-like ambience.
• The terminal includes a dedicated zone inspired by Kaziranga National Park.

The integrated new terminal spans nearly 1.4 lakh square metres. It emphasizes digital integration and passenger convenience. The facility includes 14 entry points, with four dedicated DigiYatra gates. This system uses biometric processing to streamline security checks. Other modern features include full-body scanners, automated baggage handling, and AI-driven airport operations.

Impact on Regional Aviation

The new terminal is a significant development in the context of broader regional growth. The number of operational airports in Northeast India has increased substantially in recent years. This expansion is part of a wider push for infrastructure-led growth in the region. Enhanced air connectivity is expected to support tourism, trade, and regional integration.

For airlines and passengers, the increased capacity and modern facilities are critical. The terminal’s development by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) under a public-private partnership signals strong private sector interest. The focus on air cargo and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities is also key. This aims to establish Guwahati as a comprehensive Northeast India aviation hub for future flight operation news.