GMR Group, the largest private airport operator in Asia and the second-largest worldwide, has announced significant achievements that are reshaping India’s aviation landscape. The Group is driving sustainable innovation while spearheading modernization efforts to meet the rising demand in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport Becomes a Global Leader in Sustainability
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), operated by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL)—a subsidiary of GMR Airports Limited —has become the first airport in the world handling over 40 million passengers annually to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emission Airport status (Level 5) under the Airport Council International’s Airport Carbon Accreditation program.
The airport initially set a 2030 target for achieving net zero carbon emissions but surpassed its goal ahead of schedule through a range of pioneering initiatives. By cutting 200,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually, the airport has cemented GMR’s leadership in sustainability.
Key Sustainability Highlights
- 100% Renewable Energy: The airport operates entirely on renewable energy, powered by a 7.84 MW solar plant and external renewable energy sources, eliminating nearly 200,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually.
- Green Infrastructure: Terminal 3 holds LEED Gold and IGBC Platinum certifications, while Terminal 1 has achieved LEED Platinum Pre-certification.
- Water Management: With over 350 rainwater harvesting systems and a zero liquid discharge sewage plant, the airport is on track to become water-positive.
- Operational Efficiency: Delhi Airport’s Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) system improves air traffic flow, reducing fuel use and emissions.
- Electric Vehicles and TaxiBots: A growing fleet of electric vehicles and TaxiBots has cut fuel consumption and emissions during taxiing operations.
- Eastern Cross Taxiway: The newly opened taxiway has reduced aircraft taxi times, saving approximately 55,000 tons of CO2 annually.
- ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System: DIAL is the first airport globally to adopt this certification, reducing energy and fuel consumption.
These initiatives demonstrate DIAL’s commitment to sustainable development and position the airport as a benchmark for green aviation infrastructure worldwide.
Nagpur Airport Modernization to Drive Regional Growth
GMR Airports Limited (GAL) is also leading a major transformation at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, Maharashtra. Strategically located in Central India, Nagpur serves as a critical hub for both passenger and cargo traffic, enhancing regional connectivity.
In partnership with MIHAN India Limited, GMR has signed a concession agreement to modernize and expand the airport, aligned with India’s vision for global-standard infrastructure. The first phase will increase passenger handling capacity to 4 million annually, with future plans to scale it to 30 million passengers per year.
Project Highlights
Enhanced Cargo Capacity: The airport’s cargo handling will increase to 20,000 metric tons, spurring economic growth across the region.
Modern Infrastructure Development: The project includes a state-of-the-art terminal, new Air Traffic Control tower, and upgraded airside facilities.
Strategic Regional Role: As a key aviation hub, the upgraded airport will boost connectivity and become a critical engine for Central India’s economy.
Speaking on the development, G.B.S. Raju, Business Chairman – Airports, GMR Group, said: “With our proven expertise in transforming airports, we are committed to delivering a world-class airport at Nagpur. This project aligns with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of driving aviation growth and Maharashtra’s focus on building world-class infrastructure. Nagpur’s transformation will not only improve connectivity but also position the city as an emerging economic powerhouse.”
