Dhirendra Singh, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA representing Jewar in Uttar Pradesh, has voiced significant concerns regarding the proposed high User Development Fee (UDF) and passenger charges at the Noida International Airport (NIA) in Jewar. He has formally requested a reassessment of these charges, fearing they will hinder the airport’s potential to attract airlines and passengers.
Singh argues the initially proposed UDF of ₹750-₹1,200, combined with other passenger service fees, could result in total charges exceeding ₹2,000 per passenger. This, he believes, is substantially higher than charges at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) and other major Indian airports, potentially making NIA less competitive. He specifically points to the impact on domestic travel, suggesting high costs could discourage passengers, particularly those from the economically sensitive western Uttar Pradesh region.
The MLA’s concerns stem from representations received from local residents and potential stakeholders. He fears the high charges will negatively impact the airport’s projected passenger traffic and overall economic viability. He has written to the Uttar Pradesh government and the airport authorities, urging them to consider a more reasonable fee structure.
Singh suggests a phased implementation of the UDF, starting with lower rates and gradually increasing them as passenger numbers grow. He also proposes benchmarking the charges against comparable airports, taking into account the regional economic context. He emphasizes the importance of making the airport accessible to a wider range of travelers to maximize its benefits for the region.
The airport is slated to begin operations by the end of 2024. The UDF is a key component of the airport’s revenue model, intended to help recoup the substantial investment in its construction. However, Singh’s intervention highlights the delicate balance between revenue generation and attracting sufficient passenger volume to ensure the airport’s long-term success. He believes a reassessment is crucial to ensure the airport fulfills its potential as a major transportation hub and economic driver for the region.
