The freshly opened Terminal 3 at the Chaudhary Charan Singh International (CCSI) Airport in Lucknow is all set to start functioning from March 31. According to Lucknow Airport spokesperson Rupesh Kumar, Akasa Air will be the first airline to transition all its operations to Terminal 3. This relocation aligns with Lucknow Airport’s strategy to move both domestic and international flights to the newly constructed integrated terminal, recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The terminal, constructed at a cost of ₹2,400 crore, currently has a capacity of 80 lakh passengers annually, which will increase to 1.3 crore passengers per year by the completion of Phase 2.
The CCSI Airport spokesperson announced the initiation of operations, stating, “Terminal 3 will be commissioned from March 31, with Akasa Air being the pioneering airline to shift to the new facility. Our aim is to ensure a top-notch experience for passengers during their transition to Terminal 3.” The shift information will be promptly communicated to Akasa Airlines passengers using various communication channels. On the operational day, Lucknow Airport plans to deploy customer service personnel and signage strategically to direct Akasa Airlines passengers to Terminal 3 (Departure and Arrival).
Terminal 3 at CCSI Airport is equipped with several noteworthy features to enhance the flying experience, including DigiYatra, ample check-in counters, self-service kiosks, automated tray retrieval systems, modern baggage screening machines, baggage reclaim belts, aerobridges, and aircraft parking bays. The new apron will escalate the passenger boarding gates from 7 to 13 and passenger boarding bridges from 2 to 7. Presently, the airport offers connectivity to 29 domestic and 8 international destinations. With the capacity expansion, operational efficiency is expected to see a significant improvement. The airport boasts an advanced audio-visual system showcasing the art and culture of Uttar Pradesh through illuminated motifs of ‘Chikankari’ and ‘Mukaish’ embroidery, along with graphics depicting narratives from the epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Furthermore, the airport has made provisions for recyclable materials and will serve as a hub for various modes of transportation, including metro connectivity, intercity electric bus service, and app-based taxi services.
