The first phase of development will involve an investment of over ₹20,000 crore, with approximately 22 million sq. ft. of mixed-use infrastructure planned across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Jaipur and Guwahati. Nearly 70 per cent of the investment is concentrated in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, reinforcing its position as India’s leading commercial and aviation hub.
The project aims to transform airports into integrated urban ecosystems combining hospitality, retail, entertainment, commercial, and convention infrastructure within walkable, seamlessly connected districts. These developments will be closely integrated with airport terminals, metro networks and city transport systems.
Inspired by global airport cities such as Singapore’s Changi, Dubai International, Amsterdam’s Schiphol and Seoul’s Incheon, the initiative seeks to establish a new airport-led development model for India’s growing aviation sector.
“Around the world, the most successful airport districts have become centres of commerce, tourism and urban growth. As India’s aviation market expands, airports have an opportunity to create value far beyond aviation. We are creating a network of integrated urban destinations where airports become catalysts for investment, employment, better passenger experiences and the long-term growth of the cities they serve,” said Jeet Adani, Director, AAHL.
He further added, “These developments are being designed with leading global design and engineering partners and informed by emerging trends in hospitality, retail, workplaces and entertainment. Our objective is to create vibrant districts that combine connectivity with experience, generating economic activity, employment and long-term value for the communities around them.”
As part of the initiative, AAHL has signed hotel management agreements with IHG Hotels & Resorts for five luxury and premium hotels, including the introduction of the Kimpton brand in India. The company is also collaborating with leading domestic and international partners across hospitality, retail, food and beverage, and entertainment sectors.
Sustainability forms a key pillar of the programme, with all Airport City projects receiving LEED Gold pre-certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. The developments emphasize energy efficiency, sustainable design, walkability, and high-quality public spaces.
At the launch event, AACL also recognised its key partners across master planning, architecture, construction and consultancy, including Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), Benoy, Znera Space, Larsen & Toubro, Tata Projects, PSP Projects, CBRE, JLL and Cushman & Wakefield.
