Adani Airports has announced a massive INR.10,000 crore expansion project for Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (CCSIA) in Lucknow, making it one of the largest private airport modernisation initiatives in Uttar Pradesh. The investment, to be carried out in phases, is aimed at significantly boosting passenger handling capacity, strengthening cargo operations, and modernising infrastructure. So far, INR.2,401 crore has already been invested in developing a new terminal and improving road connectivity. CCSIA currently handles around 8 million passengers annually, and with the completion of Terminal 3 Phase 2 by 2026-27 at an additional cost of INR.900 crore, the airport’s capacity is expected to rise to 14 million passengers a year, easing congestion and enhancing efficiency.
A key highlight of the expansion is the introduction of advanced “swing operations,” which allow flexible use of airport infrastructure for both domestic and international flights depending on demand. The new terminal will also incorporate cultural and artistic elements to showcase the regional identity of Uttar Pradesh. At present, CCSIA operates with seven aerobridges, parking for 15 aircraft, and facilities for Type D planes. With 42 direct routes, including 31 domestic and 11 international, nearly 19% of passenger traffic now comes from overseas travelers, underlining the airport’s growing global importance.
On the economic front, Lucknow already contributes nearly 4% to Uttar Pradesh’s GDP, and officials view CCSIA as a vital hub for trade, business, and tourism. The airport expansion is expected to further fuel the state’s economic growth by improving connectivity and attracting more international traffic. Adani Airports is also planning to scale up cargo facilities to handle 50,000 metric tonnes annually within the next five years while preparing to launch new international routes, including direct flights to Singapore and Vietnam. With this ambitious project, Adani aims to transform CCSIA into a leading aviation hub in northern India, strengthening regional commerce and positioning Lucknow as a key gateway to the world.
