Bhogapuram (Andhra Pradesh): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh's Vizianagaram district, marking a major milestone in the state's aviation infrastructure and regional development. Built at a cost of Rs 4,727 crore, the airport has been completed in a record 31 months and is expected to emerge as a key gateway for domestic and international connectivity in North Andhra.
The state-of-the-art airport has been designed to handle six million passengers annually during its first phase, with an ambitious master plan to expand its capacity to over 40 million passengers per year in subsequent phases. The project is being developed in three phases, reflecting Andhra Pradesh's long-term vision of creating a world-class aviation hub on the eastern coast.
Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the airport terminal building at around 11 am before inspecting the facility along with Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. Following the inspection, the Prime Minister travelled in an open-top vehicle to a public meeting venue, where more than 13,500 tribal women and students welcomed him with a spectacular Dhimsa dance performance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. The Prime Minister addressed the gathering from 11:30 am to 12:55 pm before departing for New Delhi.
The airport boasts a modern 3,800-metre-long Code 4E runway capable of handling large aircraft. It also features an integrated passenger terminal, cargo facilities and advanced airside infrastructure designed to accommodate both domestic and international flight operations. These facilities are expected to strengthen Andhra Pradesh's position as an important aviation destination while supporting trade, tourism and industrial growth.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu described the airport as a landmark achievement for North Andhra and the Telugu people. He said the project would usher in a new era for the state's aviation sector while significantly boosting economic activity across the region. According to the Chief Minister, improved connectivity will attract investments, create employment opportunities and enhance the socio-economic conditions of North Andhra.
Naidu also highlighted the airport's potential to promote the region's tourism and agricultural products on the global stage. Improved air connectivity is expected to benefit popular destinations such as Araku Valley and increase the international visibility of world-renowned Araku Coffee. The enhanced transport network is likely to encourage greater tourist arrivals while facilitating faster movement of exports and cargo.
To maximise public participation and awareness, the Chief Minister directed officials to launch a statewide campaign under the theme "Wings to the Dreams of North Andhra." The initiative aims to familiarise residents with the airport's benefits and establish it as a symbol of the region's aspirations for growth and prosperity.
With world-class infrastructure, large-scale passenger handling capacity and future expansion plans, the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport is expected to become a major catalyst for economic development, tourism, trade and investment in Andhra Pradesh, while strengthening India's rapidly expanding aviation network.
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