Vizag: The Bhogapuram airport validation flight landed successfully on Saturday, marking a major step toward opening Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport in Andhra Pradesh.
An Air India aircraft departed from Delhi and touched down at Bhogapuram at around 11 am during the final commercial trial. The successful landing confirmed readiness across critical airport systems.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu travelled on the aircraft along with senior officials from the Airports Authority of India and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Officials closely observed the trial to verify operational preparedness.
The exercise formed part of the mandatory pre-commissioning process before allowing scheduled commercial operations. Authorities evaluated runway performance, air navigation aids, and overall airport coordination.
Bhogapuram airport validation flight tests operational readiness
Officials said the trial assessed end-to-end airport functioning under live conditions. In addition, teams reviewed coordination among air traffic control, security agencies, and technical units.
Moreover, the successful exercise boosted confidence in safety protocols and regulatory compliance. Senior officials carried out real-time assessments of systems during the landing.
The airport, officially named Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, is expected to improve air connectivity in north coastal Andhra Pradesh. It is also expected to support regional economic activity after commercial services begin.
Authorities said remaining procedural clearances would follow before announcing regular passenger operations. The successful trial marked a crucial milestone in commissioning the airport.
