In a pivotal move to accommodate the escalating passenger traffic and to celebrate the cultural richness of Assam, Guwahati Airport is gearing up to unveil its new integrated terminal building in July 2024. The development comes as a response to the airport handling a remarkable 5.6 million passengers in the preceding year, pushing its capacity to the limits.
This new terminal is not merely an expansion but a vibrant representation of Assam’s cultural identity, as it draws inspiration from the state flower, the ‘Foxtail Orchid’ or Kopou Phool. Symbolizing love, fertility, and celebration among the Assamese people, this orchid holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Adorning the hair of female Bihu dancers during the Bohag Bihu festival, the Foxtail Orchid is deeply embedded in Assam’s traditions, marking the Assamese New Year celebrated on April 14th.
Addressing a press conference, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The new Guwahati airport will look exactly like the ‘Foxtail Orchid,’ or Kopou Phool. This terminal will be completed in July 2024. Following this, Guwahati will witness a significant boost in tourism.”
Designed to handle the increasing flow of travelers, the new terminal will boast a capacity to manage 4,300 domestic and 200 international passengers during peak hours, with an annual capacity of approximately 10 million passengers. Modern amenities include 64 check-in counters, 20 self-check-in kiosks, six baggage counters, in-line baggage security screening systems, and ten aerobridges. This expansion is set to double the airport’s capacity, addressing both current demands and future growth.
Currently, Guwahati International Airport operates with two terminals, with Terminal 1 catering to domestic flights and Terminal 2 serving international travelers. The addition of the new Foxtail Orchid-inspired terminal is expected to not only enhance the airport’s functionality but also contribute to its aesthetics, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Assam. As the airport transforms into a symbol of growth and cultural pride, it is poised to become a gateway that welcomes travelers with the vibrant spirit of Assam, encapsulated in the beauty of the Foxtail Orchid.
