Adani Airports Holdings Ltd (AAHL), India’s leading private airport operator and a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Limited, has successfully raised USD 750 million through External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) from a group of international banks. The financing round was spearheaded by First Abu Dhabi Bank, Barclays PLC, and Standard Chartered Bank.
The funds will be primarily utilised to refinance existing debt, enhance infrastructure, and expand capacity at six key airports under AAHL’s management: Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Jaipur, Guwahati, and Thiruvananthapuram. Additionally, the capital will support the growth of non-aeronautical ventures such as retail, food and beverage, duty-free outlets, and various service offerings across the airport network.
In the fiscal year 2024–25, AAHL handled 94 million passengers with an operational capacity of 110 million. The company has ambitious plans to triple this capacity to 300 million passengers annually by 2040, achieved through phased development. A significant milestone in this expansion is the imminent operational launch of Navi Mumbai International Airport, which will initially accommodate 20 million passengers and eventually scale up to 90 million annually, substantially enhancing the Mumbai region’s aviation infrastructure.
Arun Bansal, CEO of AAHL, remarked, “The trust placed in us by leading global financial institutions underscores the long-term value and potential of India’s aviation infrastructure. AAHL is well on its path to deliver exceptional customer experiences, leveraging technology for seamless operations, and prioritising sustainability and community engagement across its airport network.” He added, “As we continue our journey, AAHL remains committed to being the Gateway to Goodness, delivering customer-centric solutions and building world-class airport infrastructure that sets global benchmarks in service and sustainability.”
Legal advisory for the transaction was provided by Latham and Watkins LLP and Linklaters LLP as English law counsel, with Cyril Amarchand Mangaldass and TT&A acting as Indian law counsel.
This substantial funding round marks a significant step in AAHL’s strategy to strengthen India’s aviation sector and enhance passenger experience through modernised, sustainable airport infrastructure.
