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Andhra Pradesh has a brand-new gateway to the world. On August 1, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram, with commercial flight operations set to begin on August 17, 2026. Built near Visakhapatnam, this greenfield airport is being called one of the most significant aviation infrastructure projects in the region in years, and it’s set to transform connectivity, trade, and tourism across North Coastal Andhra.
Here’s a complete look at the new airport — its location, features, cost, and what it means for the state.
Where Is the New Airport Located?
The airport is situated in Bhogapuram, in Vizianagaram district, roughly 45 kilometres from Visakhapatnam along National Highway 16. It has been developed specifically to serve the growing Visakhapatnam metropolitan region, easing pressure on the existing Visakhapatnam Airport, which currently operates out of a civil enclave on a Naval airfield.
Why the Airport Was Named After Alluri Sitarama Raju
The airport carries the name of Alluri Sitarama Raju, one of India’s most celebrated freedom fighters, popularly known as “Manyam Veerudu” (Hero of the Jungle) for leading the Rampa Rebellion against British rule in the early 1920s. The Andhra Pradesh government approved naming the airport in his honor in 2024, cementing his legacy in the region’s modern infrastructure.
A Long Road to Completion
The idea for a dedicated civilian airport near Visakhapatnam had been in the works for years, driven by the need for a facility independent of military operations. The foundation stone was first laid back in 2019, but the project stalled over land acquisition issues. Work eventually resumed, land acquisition was completed, and all necessary clearances from the central government were secured, paving the way for construction to move forward at full pace.
Key Features of the Airport
The new facility, developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL), a subsidiary of GMR Airports Limited, has been built to modern international standards:
- Runway: A 3,800-metre Code 4E runway, capable of handling large wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380.
- Passenger Capacity: An initial capacity of 6 million passengers per annum (MPPA), with scope to expand beyond 40 MPPA in future phases.
- Terminal: A modern, integrated passenger terminal designed for both domestic and international operations.
- Cargo Infrastructure: Dedicated cargo facilities, including a cold-chain cargo terminal aimed at boosting exports of seafood, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural produce from the region.
- Area: Spread across roughly 2,200+ acres, built in a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
The airport’s first-phase development cost is estimated at approximately ₹45.92 billion, with some reports pegging the total project cost at nearly Rs 5,640 crore — making it one of the largest infrastructure undertakings in North Andhra’s history.
What This Means for Andhra Pradesh
Officials expect the airport to be a major catalyst for regional development. It’s anticipated to:
- Ease congestion at the existing Visakhapatnam Airport
- Boost industrial growth and investment across North Coastal Andhra
- Create new employment opportunities in aviation, logistics, and allied sectors
- Strengthen export competitiveness through its dedicated cargo and cold-chain facilities
- Improve regional and international connectivity for businesses and travelers alike
Part of a Bigger Aviation Push
Bhogapuram isn’t a standalone project — it’s part of a much larger plan. Andhra Pradesh is planning to build nine new airports with an investment of approximately $1 billion, aimed at expanding regional connectivity across the state. These upcoming airports are planned for locations including Kuppam, Dagadarthi, Srikakulam, Tadepalligudem, Nagarjuna Sagar, Tuni-Annavaram, Ongole, Palasa, and Amaravati. The state currently operates six airports, including those at Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Tirupati, Rajahmundry, Kadapa, and Kurnool.
The Bottom Line
The opening of Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport marks a landmark moment for Andhra Pradesh’s aviation sector. With world-class infrastructure, strong cargo capabilities, and room to grow to over 40 million passengers annually, Bhogapuram is poised to become a key hub for North Coastal Andhra — driving tourism, trade, and economic growth for years to come.
This article is based on publicly available news reports as of early August 2026. Readers are encouraged to check official Andhra Pradesh government and GMR Group sources for the latest updates on flight schedules and airport operations.
Sources
- PM Modi to Inaugurate Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport — Construction World
- Andhra Pradesh Gets New International Airport At Bhogapuram — Swarajya
- Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport — Wikipedia
- Andhra Pradesh Plans 9 New Airports with $1 Billion Investment — Maritime Gateway
- Bhogapuram Airport Inaugurated with Capacity for 6 Million Passengers Annually — Aviation Jeta
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