Whalesbook
Airline Objections to High Fees
The proposed airport charges and infrastructure gaps present major hurdles for the airport's launch. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India have protested the proposed charges, pointing out domestic landing fees would be 119% higher than Delhi's, with a User Development Fee (UDF) of ₹653 per passenger, representing a 406% increase.
IndiGo estimates these higher charges could add about ₹103 crore to its annual expenses if operating from Noida instead of Delhi. The airline warned the airport risks being 'commercially unattractive' without similar costs to Delhi, a view shared by a local MLA calling for a fee review.
Cost and Transit Concerns for Travelers
Travelers are also concerned about actual flight costs. For instance, fares from Lucknow to Noida are reportedly 25% more expensive than to Delhi. Early bookings show ₹5,072 for Noida compared to ₹3,600–₹4,300 for Delhi.
This price gap, along with the lack of planned metro and rail links at launch, makes it difficult for Noida airport to attract passengers from western Uttar Pradesh and the Delhi-NCR region.
Traveler Survey: Delhi Remains Preferred
A wide-ranging survey by LocalCircles, involving over 19,000 Delhi-NCR residents, revealed traveler preferences. The survey found that if Noida airport fares stay 25% higher in 2026, 95% of respondents would still choose Delhi Airport.
Key reasons for preferring Delhi included lower fares and better accessibility. Proximity alone was cited by 32% of respondents, with lower fares by another 5% as primary drivers for choosing Delhi.
Challenges Ahead for Noida Airport
The survey suggests Noida International Airport may struggle to attract passengers from Delhi in its first year unless fare differences and transit links are quickly improved. Policymakers are focused on the high airport charges, potential impact on airline fuel tax benefits, the absence of essential transit connections at launch, and limited airline choice, as IndiGo is currently the only carrier confirmed for the start.
Nearly 80% of Delhi-NCR travelers surveyed said they would consider Noida Airport only if fares match or beat Delhi's and ground transport links improve significantly.