Srinagar, Sep 17: The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) has initiated the tariff assessment for Srinagar International Airport for the five-year period from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2031.
As per reports, the exercise will determine the regulated aeronautical charges applicable at the airport during the fourth control period. The process involves consultation with airlines, passenger associations, airport authorities and other stakeholders before AERA takes a final decision.
The review, however, does not mean an immediate increase in airfares for passengers.
Airport charges form part of the broader cost of operating flights. Airlines pay various charges related to aircraft landing, parking and use of airport infrastructure and services. User Development Fee, where applicable, is a passenger-related airport charge that is generally included in the ticket.
Airfares are determined by several factors, including fuel prices, aircraft operating costs, demand, competition and route economics. Therefore, any change in airport tariffs may affect airline costs, but it does not automatically translate into an equivalent increase in ticket prices.
The tariff exercise assumes greater importance as Srinagar Airport prepares for a major expansion. The Union Cabinet approved a project worth Rs 1,677 crore in February 2026, which includes a new terminal building spread over 71,500 square metres.
The expanded airport is planned to handle up to 10 million passengers annually, with peak-hour capacity of around 2,900 passengers.
The development comes amid growing demand for air connectivity to Kashmir, particularly during tourism seasons. Srinagar Airport serves as a key gateway for visitors travelling to destinations including Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg.
A long-term tariff framework, alongside increased infrastructure capacity, will influence how the airport manages future passenger growth and how airlines assess operating costs and connectivity from Srinagar.
For passengers, the immediate significance of the AERA exercise is that it remains a regulatory consultation process. Any changes to airport charges will become clear only after the authority completes the assessment and issues its final tariff decision.
