The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International (SVPI) airport in Ahmedabad expanded its departure hall at Terminal 2 on Saturday, just in time for the Diwali rush. This move aims to streamline the travel experience for international passengers.
The upgraded space, spanning 2,100 sq m, promises a smoother travel experience with facilities including a new departure gate and an expanded check-in hall equipped with 20 additional check-in counters to minimise wait times.
The area now also includes two self-baggage drop counters, making luggage handling easier and quicker. For tech-savvy travellers, common-use self-service kiosks have been installed, allowing passengers to print their boarding passes independently.
The terminal also showcases two artworks that celebrate the heritage and culture of Gujarat. One artwork draws inspiration from the bustling pols of Ahmedabad and the renowned Sidi Saiyyed Jali, highlighting the city’s architectural heritage and vibrant community life. Another feature, a statue titled ‘Pride of Gujarat’, showcases a majestic lion sculpture and three Asiatic lion models, honouring the state’s connection with its iconic wildlife.
Top Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation officials confirmed that some 15 buses will be deployed on the 19-km route.
Between April and Sep 2024, the SVPI airport handled 10 lakh international passengers compared to the same period last year, according to data furnished by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Overall, the airport handled 60 lakh passengers during H1, marking an 8 per cent growth. Of these, 50 lakh were domestic travellers, with a 6 per cent increase, while the international segment saw stronger growth. Key global destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Kuwait were among the most-travelled destinations, according to airport sources.
