Maharishi Valmiki International Airport | How Ayodhya Airport is Transforming the City

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Ayodhya International Airport, officially named Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya Dham, is a major aviation project in the historic city of Ayodhya. This airport is expected to improve air connectivity, promote tourism, and contribute to the economic growth of the region. With the increasing number of pilgrims and tourists visiting Ayodhya, this airport will make travel more convenient and position the city on the global map.

A New Era for Ayodhya

The airport was initially named Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport, reflecting the deep cultural and religious significance of Ayodhya as the birthplace of Lord Ram. It is located around 8 km from the city center and was inaugurated on December 30, 2023, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Situated near National Highway 27 and Faizabad Junction railway station, the airport will make it easier for travelers to visit other important cities in Uttar Pradesh, such as Lucknow, Varanasi, and Prayagraj.

Development and Features of Ayodhya Airport

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has planned the airport's development in three phases. The first phase of the airport includes:

  • A 6,000 m⊃2; terminal building

  • Runway expansion to 2,200 meters in length and 45 meters in width, with additional shoulders on both sides

  • A parking apron for ATR 72 and Q400-type aircraft

  • A 310-meter taxi track to connect the runway with the apron

  • A special isolation bay for emergency situations

  • An aerodrome control tower and an anti-hijack control room

  • Fire stations, taxiway strips, and fire watch towers

With these developments, the airport can now accommodate A321 model aircraft, enhancing its capacity for larger passenger volumes.

Key Details of Ayodhya Airport

  • Location: Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, India

  • Official Name: Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya Dham

  • Other Names: Ayodhya Airport, Faizabad Airport

  • IATA Code: FZD

  • ICAO Code: VIFD

  • Operator: Airports Authority of India (AAI)

  • Type: Public

  • Status: Operational since Dec 30, 2023

  • Area: 821 acres

  • Estimated Cost: Rs. 328 crore

  • Passenger Handling Capacity: 6 lakh passengers annually

  • Civil Works Contractors: Vishal Infrastructure Limited and B.S.K Integrated Consultants

Architectural and Passenger Facilities

The terminal design is inspired by Ayodhya’s cultural and spiritual heritage, with shikaras (temple-like spires) on the roof. Inside, columns will feature artwork depicting key moments from the Ramayana, creating an immersive experience for travelers. The glass facade of the terminal is designed to reflect the grandeur of Ayodhya Palace.

For passenger convenience, the airport will have:

  • 8 check-in counters

  • 1 luggage conveyor belt

  • X-ray baggage scanning

  • 2 baggage claim conveyor belts

  • Sustainable features such as skylights, solar power, and rainwater harvesting

Air Connectivity

The airport currently operates flights to 8 major Indian cities, including:

  • Jaipur

  • Patna

  • Chennai

  • Delhi

  • Mumbai

  • Darbhanga

  • Bengaluru

The flight routes were inaugurated by Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, making it easier for pilgrims to visit the newly constructed Ram Mandir.

Future Expansion Plans

The second phase of the airport's development is already in progress. This phase includes:

  • A new terminal building covering 4.4 hectares

  • Increasing the airport apron’s capacity from 8 bays to 18

  • Expanding the total airport area from 141 hectares to 331 hectares

The estimated cost of this expansion is Rs. 1,625 crore, and it is expected to be completed in 28 months. The Union Environment Ministry has already granted the necessary approvals.

Impact on Real Estate and Infrastructure

The airport and the Ram Mandir project have significantly boosted Ayodhya’s real estate market. Property values within a 10-15 km radius of the temple site have skyrocketed. Developers are actively acquiring land for residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments to meet the growing demand for accommodation.

The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated 1,100 acres for real estate development. Areas such as Faizabad, Ram Katha Park, and Bypass Road are witnessing a surge in property prices due to their strategic locations.

For those looking to invest in rental or residential properties near Ayodhya, platforms like EazeMyRent can help connect buyers, sellers, and tenants with the best options available in the market.

Other Upcoming Developments in Ayodhya

With Ayodhya’s transformation into a global pilgrimage and tourism hub, several other projects are underway:

  • Expansion of Ayodhya railway station

  • Construction of a 5-km flyover

  • Development of hotels and resorts (3-star to 5-star categories)

  • New dharamshalas, dormitories, Vedic institutions, ashrams, and a gaushala

  • A planned cruise service on the Saryu River

  • Two new hotels by IHCL’s Vivanta and Ginger brands, bringing high-quality hospitality services to the city

How to Reach Ayodhya Airport

Distance from City Center: 8 km

  • By Road: Travel via Ayodhya Dham Road and NH 27/NH330

  • By Bus: Direct buses available from the city center and Ram Mandir

  • By Cab: Ola, Uber, and private taxi services are easily accessible

Last Words

Ayodhya International Airport is a milestone in the city’s development. With modern infrastructure, enhanced connectivity, and a boost in tourism, the airport is set to transform Ayodhya into a major religious and economic hub. As more developments take shape, Ayodhya is on its way to becoming one of India’s most sought-after destinations, blending tradition with modern convenience.