16/06/2026
Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL), India's largest private airport operator, on Monday (June 15) announced that it has achieved global recognition after two of its airport projects — the new Terminal 2 of Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati and the Navi Mumbai International Airport's Terminal 1 — were named among the ‘World’s Most Beautiful Airports 2026’ by the prestigious Prix Versailles architecture and design awards.
The recognition places the two Indian airports among seven aviation infrastructure projects worldwide selected for their architectural excellence, sustainability, and passenger-centric design.
The Prix Versailles is a distinguished annual global award in architecture and design, presented at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris since 2015.
Terminal 2 of Guwahati’s Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport earned praise for its design inspired by the region’s ecological and cultural heritage. The terminal draws architectural inspiration from the ‘Bamboo Orchid’, incorporating biophilic design principles that celebrate the region’s rich biodiversity while ensuring sustainability and operational efficiency.
On the other hand, the Navi Mumbai International Airport’s Terminal 1 was recognised for its distinctive lotus-inspired architecture and futuristic design.
Along with the two Indian airports, five international airports - Guangzhou, China; Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Kandal Stueng, Cambodia; Pittsburgh, United States; and San Diego, United States - have also been recognised in the list.
Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister reacted to the news by saying that the world is taking note of Assam's architectural identity.
"The new terminal of Guwahati Airport has been featured in the prestigious Prix Versailles World's Most Beautiful Airports List 2026, earning global recognition for a design that seamlessly blends indigenous art, local craftsmanship and nature inspired narratives," CM Sarma said in a post on X.
"A proud moment as the Gateway to the North East joins an exclusive list celebrating some of the finest airports in the world," the Chief Minister added.
