New Jodhpur Airport Terminal Showcases Fusion of Rajputana Heritage and Modern Architecture.

Inspired by Rajasthan’s architectural heritage and built to meet rising aviation demand, the new terminal at Jodhpur Airport will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday.

Designed by Sthapati India, the 2.52 lakh sq ft terminal has been constructed at an estimated cost of ₹400 crore and can handle up to two million passengers annually. It has a peak-hour capacity of 1,000 passengers and features six aerobridges for direct aircraft access.

The terminal’s design incorporates traditional Rajputana aesthetics with modern aviation infrastructure. Its distinctive features include a fluted dome topped by a ‘kalash’ on a lotus base, along with carved glass fibre reinforced concrete surfaces, multifoil arches, decorative columns and a grand domed gateway inspired by Rajasthan’s forts and palaces.

The project also reflects Jodhpur’s aviation history, which dates back to 1931 when the then ruler Umaid Singh established the Jodhpur Flying Club.

Inside, the terminal emphasises natural lighting, while climate-responsive glazing and energy-efficient materials help reduce solar heat gain in the city’s hot-arid conditions. Artwork developed with regional artists showcases peacock motifs and royal court scenes, integrating Rajasthani artistic traditions into a modern public space.

Speaking to TOI, Vipul B. Varshneya, director at Sthapati India, said the terminal has been designed for efficiency and smooth passenger flow, with separate arrivals and departures, island check-in counters, linear security zones, dedicated staff routes and improved baggage circulation systems.

The building is also being developed with a focus on sustainability and is targeting GRIHA certification through insulated construction, shading systems, controlled glazing, solar installations and energy-efficient HVAC systems.

Architect Khushboo Bansal said sustainability has been integrated into the core design approach rather than added through standalone features.

Airport director Manoj Uniyal said the new terminal was necessary due to rapidly rising passenger traffic, which has doubled over the past 12 years and crossed one million passengers last year. The airport currently handles 14–16 flights daily in summer and 25–30 flights during the winter tourist season.