Andhra Pradesh Begins Contractor Selection for ₹649 Crore Dagadarthi Greenfield Airport Project

The Andhra Pradesh government has taken a significant step towards strengthening its aviation infrastructure by initiating the contractor selection process for the proposed Dagadarthi Greenfield Airport in Nellore district. The airport project, estimated at ₹648.59 crore, is expected to play a vital role in improving regional connectivity and supporting economic development across southern Andhra Pradesh.

The proposed airport will be developed under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model, with a private developer responsible for financing, construction, operation and maintenance under a 45-year concession agreement. The government has already commenced the procurement process with the issuance of an Expression of Interest (EoI), marking the beginning of the project implementation phase.

Spread across approximately 650 acres earmarked for aviation infrastructure, the project will also have an additional 726 acres allocated for commercial development and future city-side expansion. The integrated development approach is expected to create opportunities for aviation-linked businesses, hospitality, logistics and commercial investments in the region.

The airport is planned in four phases with a long-term development roadmap extending up to 2070. The first phase, scheduled for completion by FY2028-29, will include a modern passenger terminal, runway, airside facilities, retail spaces and passenger amenities. Once operational, the facility is expected to handle around 2,282 passengers per day and support approximately 27 aircraft movements daily.

Industry experts believe the project will significantly improve air connectivity for Nellore, Prakasam, Kadapa and Chittoor districts, while also complementing Andhra Pradesh’s broader infrastructure and investment growth strategy. Improved accessibility is expected to attract new industries, boost tourism and strengthen trade opportunities across the region.

The Dagadarthi Airport project forms part of the state’s larger vision to expand its aviation ecosystem and create modern transport infrastructure that supports economic growth, investment attraction and regional development. Once completed, the airport is expected to emerge as an important gateway for businesses, investors and travelers in Andhra Pradesh.