Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh, describing the state as India's "next growth engine." He said the new greenfield airport will transform regional connectivity, boost tourism, create employment and accelerate economic development across North Andhra.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh's Vizianagaram district. Built as a modern greenfield airport, the project is expected to significantly improve air connectivity for North Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring regions of Odisha. During the inauguration, the Prime Minister highlighted Andhra Pradesh's strategic importance in India's economic future and called it the country's "next growth engine."
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
PM Modi inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram.
He described Andhra Pradesh as India's "next growth engine."
The airport will enhance connectivity across North Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha.
Commercial flight operations are scheduled to begin from 17 August 2026.
The airport is expected to boost tourism, trade, logistics and employment.
The newly inaugurated Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport has been developed near Visakhapatnam to meet the region's growing aviation needs. The airport is designed to reduce congestion at the existing Visakhapatnam Airport while supporting future passenger and cargo traffic. Commercial flight operations are expected to begin from 17 August 2026.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi said Andhra Pradesh has immense potential to become one of India's leading economic centres because of its long coastline, industrial ecosystem, ports and skilled workforce. He stated that world-class infrastructure such as airports, highways and ports would play a key role in attracting investments and generating employment.
The Prime Minister noted that improved air connectivity will strengthen tourism, logistics, exports and business opportunities across North Andhra. He added that the airport will serve as an important gateway for domestic and international travellers while supporting the state's long-term development plans.
Editorial Analysis
Why It Matters
The Bhogapuram Airport is among India's major new aviation infrastructure projects and is expected to transform connectivity in the eastern coastal region. Better transport infrastructure is likely to attract industries, increase tourism, improve exports and strengthen Andhra Pradesh's role in India's economic growth.
The airport has been named after freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju, who led the historic Rampa Rebellion against British rule. During his speech, PM Modi said naming major infrastructure after national heroes reflects India's commitment to honouring those who contributed to the country's freedom and development.
The inauguration formed part of the Prime Minister's broader visit to Andhra Pradesh, during which several major infrastructure and development initiatives were launched to enhance connectivity and economic growth.
What's Next?
Commercial passenger flights from the new airport are expected to commence on 17 August 2026. The government also plans to improve surrounding road connectivity and integrate the airport with future logistics and industrial corridors to maximise its economic impact.
