Decline in Operations at Hindon Airport Amid Noida International Airport Launch
The Noida International Airport is set to open, but the Hindon Airport is facing significant operational challenges, with 16 routes recently canceled. Despite initial hopes for enhanced connectivity, airlines like Air India Express and IndiGo have reduced their services, leading to a sharp decline in traffic. Recent data shows a troubling trend in passenger numbers and aircraft movements, raising concerns about the future of Hindon as a viable airport. This article explores the implications of these developments for regional air travel.
Jun 17, 2026, 13:33 IST
Hindon Airport Faces Operational Challenges
The Noida International Airport (NIA) is set to commence commercial flights, marking the beginning of a new era with two airports in the National Capital Region (NCR). However, the initial efforts to establish an alternative aviation hub in the area are faltering. Information obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) request reveals that at least 16 routes from the Hindon Airport, which was launched with much fanfare under the central government's UDAN scheme, have been discontinued as airlines gradually reduce their operations. In March 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the civilian terminal at the Indian Air Force's Hindon Airbase as part of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) initiative. The aim was to develop Hindon as a low-cost airport to enhance regional connectivity and alleviate pressure on Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Operational Decline and Route Cancellations
Despite more than seven years since its inception, the airport continues to struggle with declining connectivity and a consistent drop in traffic. The RTI data indicates that at least 16 routes have been shut down. Airlines such as Air India Express and IndiGo have ceased operations to several cities, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Bhubaneswar, Goa, Kolkata, Patna, Jaipur, Varanasi, Ahmedabad, and Indore. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) attributed the majority of route closures to 'operational reasons,' while Air India Express discontinued its services to Mumbai and Bengaluru due to operational challenges.
Traffic Decline Post-Peak in 2025
Traffic Trends at Hindon Airport
The withdrawal of airlines is reflected in the airport's traffic statistics. Hindon recorded its highest traffic in August 2025, with 1,168 aircraft movements. By October of that year, following an increase in presence from airlines like Air India Express and IndiGo, over 40 flights were operating daily to 16 cities. However, there has been a rapid decline in traffic. AAI's figures show that domestic aircraft movements dropped from 638 in February 2026 to 614 in March and further down to 404 in April. Passenger traffic also saw a significant decrease, falling from 89,073 in February to 79,161 in March, and then nearly halving to 44,326 in April. AAI confirmed that Air India Express had halted its services from Hindon due to operational reasons. However, citing exemptions under Section 8(1) of the RTI Act, it declined to disclose details regarding discussions with the airline about the service cessation.