Nashik Airport to Get Rs 556 Cr Expansion Ahead of 2026–28 Kumbh Mela

The Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Development Authority has approved a Rs 556 crore expansion of Nashik airport to handle the sharp rise in air traffic expected during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela from 2026 to 2028. The upgrade includes a new 17,800 sqm integrated terminal, a 1.15 lakh sqm apron for additional aircraft parking, a 25,000 sqm vehicle parking area, aerobridges, and advanced security systems.

Authority chairman Praveen Gedam has directed the state Public Works Department to complete the work by March 2027.

Located at Janori, about 20 km from Nashik city, the HAL-managed airport currently handles flights to New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Bengaluru, and is equipped for night landings. However, its present capacity of 300 passengers per hour is inadequate for the upcoming Kumbh Mela.

Once expanded, Nashik airport will be able to handle up to 1,000 passengers per hour, significantly boosting air connectivity and positioning the city as a key hub for domestic and international travellers.