Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu in New Delhi on Wednesday.
\| Photo Credit: PTI

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and invited him to inaugurate the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram on August 1.

Sharing details of the meeting on X, the Chief Minister said it was an honour to meet the Prime Minister and personally extend the invitation for the inauguration of the greenfield international airport that had been named after legendary freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju.

Mr. Naidu said the naming of the airport was a tribute to the revolutionary leader’s enduring legacy of courage, sacrifice and patriotism.

Highlighting the significance of the project, the Chief Minister said the airport would serve as a major catalyst for the development of the North Andhra region by improving air connectivity and creating new opportunities for tourism, trade, investment and economic growth.

A view of the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram that is all set for inauguration on August 1.
\| Photo Credit:
K.R. DEEPAK

Mr. Naidu praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in transforming India’s civil aviation sector, saying the Centre’s reforms made air travel more accessible and affordable, enabling millions of Indians to fulfil their aspirations.

The Chief Minister said the inauguration of the Bhogapuram airport would further strengthen regional connectivity and accelerate the socio-economic development of the Uttar Andhra region.

A day ago, the Chief Minister, calling the airport a growth engine for North Andhra, said the project would transform the region through enhanced connectivity, tourism, logistics, industries and employment.

“The airport, along with Aviation University, Skill Development Centre, Aviation Hub and Edu City, will position Andhra Pradesh as a major logistics and investment destination”N. Chandrababu NaiduAndhra Pradesh Chief Minister

He said the airport, along with the Aviation University, Skill Development Centre, Aviation Hub and Edu City, would position Andhra Pradesh as a major logistics and investment destination. Describing the project as a game changer, he said it would complement upcoming AI data centres and rare earth mineral-based industries in the region.

Grand celebration

The Chief Minister directed officials and public representatives in the North Andhra districts to ensure grand celebrations and widespread public participation. He also announced a complimentary flight for landowners who had gaving land for the airport and called for showcasing Araku Coffee, local culture and traditional art forms during the inauguration festivities.

Published - July 22, 2026 07:27 pm IST