Noida International Airport clears key BCAS hurdle ahead of flight operations

Noida International Airport on Tuesday said it has received approval for its Aerodrome Security Program (ASP) from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), marking a significant step towards the start of commercial flight operations.

The airport said it is now working with airlines and other partners to finalise a date for the commencement of operations.

“Noida International Airport has received approval for the Aerodrome Security Program (ASP) from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security. This marks an important milestone in the airport’s journey towards operational readiness and confirms that the security framework and procedures are in place in line with regulatory requirements,” the airport said in a statement.

“Following this, we will work closely with airlines and partners to finalise a mutually aligned date for the commencement of commercial operations. Our efforts remain focused on ensuring that all systems, processes, and personnel are fully prepared to deliver a safe, efficient, and seamless start of operations,” it said.

The development comes days after the airport replaced its expat chief executive officer Christoph Schnellman. The change followed speculation that delays in the start of operations were linked to the non-Indian origin of the top executive, which was reportedly not permitted under BCAS requirements.

Nitu Samra was announced as the airport’s interim chief executive officer last Friday.

Officials said the Aerodrome Safety Plan is a key requirement for airports as it lays down standard operating procedures for aircraft movement, emergency response, ground handling, and coordination between aviation authorities, airlines and airport operators. The framework is aimed at minimising risks and strengthening overall operational safety.

Noida International Airport is a greenfield project being developed at Jewar in Uttar Pradesh’s Gautam Buddh Nagar district. It is among the country’s major infrastructure projects aimed at improving regional connectivity and supporting economic growth.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the project on March 28.

Once operational, the airport is expected to reduce congestion at Indira Gandhi International Airport and strengthen its position as a major aviation hub for the National Capital Region.