Indian infrastructure giant GMR Group is looking to expand its Philippine footprint as it positions its newly opened Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport in Andhra Pradesh as a gateway connecting India with Southeast Asia.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the airport in Bhogapuram, joining Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu and Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu at the ceremony.
Developed through a public-private partnership costing more than USD 587 million, the airport is scheduled to begin full commercial operations on Aug. 17 with an initial capacity of six million passengers a year. Its capacity can eventually expand to more than 40 million passengers.
GMR Airports Chairman for Energy and International Airports Srinivas Bommidala said the group remains interested in Philippine airport opportunities, including the proposed Sangley Point International Airport (SPIA) and other regional gateways.
“We’ll be more than happy… to look at good opportunities, including Sangley and other regional airports, which will be a win-win for both of us, between India and the Philippines,” Bommidala said.
GMR already has a substantial Philippine presence, having transformed Mactan-Cebu International Airport and developed the passenger terminal at Clark International Airport. It has also partnered with Cavitex Holdings Inc. and House of Investments for SPIA and Sangley Aerocity.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had directed relevant agencies to “roll out the red carpet” for GMR to facilitate investments.
Beyond airports, Bommidala said GMR plans to develop a 500-acre aviation hub focused on maintenance, repair and overhaul, manufacturing, and training. The facility could also provide specialized training for Filipino aviation workers.
The company’s interest comes as the Philippines seeks to modernize airport infrastructure and strengthen regional connectivity. For GMR, the opportunity extends beyond managing terminals, with aviation hubs offering potential for higher-value activities, jobs, skills development, and deeper links between the Philippine and Indian aviation industries.
