New Hyderabad airport nearly complete

Officials in charge of the construction of a new airport in Hyderabad, India have announced that it is set to be completed by the end of the year.

The 24.78 billion-rupee (£303.5 million) hub will see the take-off of its first flight in March 2008, according to GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL).

It is expected to see about 12 million passengers a year pass through its gates and will boast a runway measuring 4,260 metres, reports the Indo-Asian News Service.

T Srinagesh, chief operating officer at GHIAL, told the agency that Hyderabad is an ideal location for the airport as it is situated two hours away from India's biggest cities, as well as being within three to five hours of destinations in south-east Asia, adding that British Airways has expressed interest in operating from the hub.

"We have had discussions with 15 to 20 international airlines. Middle East carriers are also waiting to come. They will crystallise their plans once the new facility is ready," he commented.

Hyderabad is perhaps best known among holidaymakers for its fine cuisine, as well as its rich cultural history and luxurious hotels.

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