The Noida International Airport (NIA) has finally begun passenger flight operations today. It received its first passenger flight landing, which was then followed by a take-off. Both were IndiGo flights, and they marked the official commencement of flight operations and passenger services at the new airport in Jewar. What made the event more heartwarming were the passengers who were aboard on one of these first flights. Here are all of the other important details that you would need to know about this momentous occasion for Indian aviation.
Noida International Airport Begins Passenger Flights
The very first passenger flight at the NIA took off from the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (CCSIA) in Lucknow on Monday, June 15, 2026. The IndiGo flight was numbered 6E 2278, and it took off at 7:12 AM and landed at the brand new airport at 7:58 AM.
Also Read: IndiGo Starts Ticket Sales, Announces Routes & Schedule For Noida International Airport
The return flight, which also happened to be the first to take off from the new NIA, took off around 8:18 AM. On board this flight were the Jewar MLA Dhirendra Singh and the CEOs of Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority, Rakesh Singh and Shailendra Bhatia, as well as a number of other officials.
Also Read: Flights Begin At Noida International Airport From June 15, IndiGo To Launch First Flight
172 Farmers Who Gave Land Board Returning Flight
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What made the return journey even more special was that among its passengers were also the farmers who gave their precious land for the development of this greenfield airport. A total of 172 farmers, most of whom had never flown before, got a chance to fly to Lucknow from the NIA.
Also Read: Noida International Airport Gets Final Clearance, Flights May Begin Within 45 Days
This marked a bittersweet moment for many. While receiving compensation for the land was sweet, parting from their land, which had been in their families for generations, was painful for many of them. Many mourned the loss of a piece of their family history, as well as the community of neighbors that had stood once where the airport now stands.
Also Read: Akasa Air Announces Flights From Noida International Airport To Bengaluru & Navi Mumbai
Summing Up
The new greenfield airport is bound to make travel significantly easier for many. The commencement of operations marks an important occasion for Indian aviation. It is hoped that this greenfield airport will serve passengers for ages to come.
