Inauguration of Terminal 1 at Jaipur International Airport to Boost Tourism Development

The inauguration of Terminal 1 at Jaipur International Airport by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has given new momentum to tourism development in the Pink City of Rajasthan ahead of the upcoming Rising Rajasthan Global Summit 2024 in December. The first international flight from Abu Dhabi marked the terminal's opening, with passengers welcomed in traditional Rajasthani style. With this inauguration, Jaipur now boasts two international airport terminals, making it the first in Rajasthan. Given that New Delhi has three airports and the new Jewar Airport is emerging as one of the largest in the world, the opening of this additional terminal in Jaipur is significant.

The importance of Jaipur Airport is heightened as it is the closest major airport to the national capital. During times of traffic congestion or emergencies in Delhi, flights are often diverted to Jaipur.

After an 11-year hiatus, Terminal 1 has regained its vibrancy. The airport administration had closed Terminal 1 to the public on July 16, 2013, after the construction of Terminal 2. With the reopening of Terminal 1, the new design features a heritage look, allowing tourists to see elements reminiscent of Rajasthani heritage, including red sandstone and glimpses of landmarks like Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar.

In his speech at the inauguration, Chief Minister Sharma stated that the new terminal, designed with a heritage aesthetic, offers special facilities for travelers, which will likely increase the number of investors and tourists. He emphasized that the terminal reflects culture, heritage, and development, enhancing the city's image as a world-class destination. He noted that the Rising Rajasthan event from December 9 to 11 would attract guests from around the world, further enhancing Jaipur's global reputation.

Jaipur Airport currently has a passenger capacity of 6.5 million, which is expected to increase to 38 million in the future, contributing to tourism and business growth in the region and boosting the state’s economic development.

In addition to Jaipur, Rajasthan has seven other airports, and efforts are underway for their expansion and progress. With the support of the central government, flights are being ensured from airports in Bikaner, Kota, and Jaisalmer. The state government is also developing helipads in all border districts to enhance connectivity.

As a heritage city, Jaipur—also known as the Pink City—has endowed Terminal 1 with a heritage look that will provide foreign tourists with a glimpse of the city’s charm upon arrival. The operation of Terminal 1 is expected to increase the number of international flights.

Currently, Jaipur has six international flights to the Middle East and Kuala Lumpur, primarily serving the working population in the Gulf countries. The opening of Terminal 1 is set to expand international flight options for tourists arriving in Jaipur.

Adani Airport Holdings Limited operates the terminals at Jaipur Airport, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the airport's overall capacity. In 2023, approximately 5.4 million passengers traveled through Terminal 2, and this number is expected to rise further this year, thanks to improved air connectivity and new routes to Ayodhya, Bikaner, Abu Dhabi, and Kuala Lumpur.

In the coming years, passenger numbers traveling from Jaipur by air are projected to increase significantly, prompting expansion efforts at the airport.

Rajasthan’s tourism industry holds international significance, particularly in the mining and minerals sector. All districts in the state have small and large airstrips, which could facilitate small aircraft and air ambulance services, creating a circuit connecting neighboring states like Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

It is anticipated that the growth of air services in Rajasthan will enhance international connectivity, particularly with Gulf countries, Europe, the United States, Canada, and beyond.