Noida International Airport Taps Tech Mahindra to Run Critical Network & Cybersecurity Operations

Noida International Airport (NIA) has finalized a strategic partnership with IT services major Tech Mahindra to establish and operate its integrated Network Operations Centre (NOC) and Security Operations Centre (SOC). The agreement is a pivotal step in fortifying the digital backbone of India’s largest greenfield aviation hub, ensuring it is “secure by design” ahead of its commercial debut in early 2026.

Under the contract, Tech Mahindra will build and manage a process-led technology environment with cybersecurity embedded at its core. The firm will provide 24/7 monitoring and management of the airport’s critical IT infrastructure, covering enterprise networks, cloud assets, databases, and servers. This “digital nervous system” is essential for supporting modern aviation technologies, including biometric processing (DigiYatra) and automated baggage handling.

Christoph Schnellmann, CEO of Noida International Airport, emphasized the importance of the deal: “As a greenfield airport, we have a unique opportunity to embed resilience and security into our digital ecosystem from day one. Our partnership with Tech Mahindra is a critical step in building a future-ready framework that supports safe and seamless operations for our passengers and partners.”

Operational Readiness and Revised Timeline

The announcement comes as the airport enters its final phase of system stabilization. Noida International Airport is being developed by Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL), a subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG.

While Phase 1 construction—covering 1,334 hectares—is nearly 95% complete, commercial flight operations have been adjusted to a February or March 2026 launch window. This timeline ensures full regulatory compliance, including the calibration of instrument landing systems and final aerodrome licensing.

Once fully developed across four phases, the airport will cover nearly 5,000 hectares, positioning it as the largest airport in India by land area.

Market Reaction

Following the announcement, Tech Mahindra Ltd (TECHM) shares witnessed a muted reaction in a volatile market, trading at ₹1,634.40 on the NSE (down 0.75%) during the afternoon session. Analysts view the deal as a prestige win that bolsters Tech Mahindra’s portfolio in the high-growth infrastructure and public sector verticals.

Summary

Noida International Airport has selected Tech Mahindra to manage its integrated NOC-SOC, ensuring 24/7 cybersecurity and network oversight for the upcoming Jewar aviation hub. The deal highlights NIA’s “digital-first” strategy as it prepares for a revised commercial launch in February/March 2026. Tech Mahindra will manage the entire IT stack—from cloud databases to physical network security—to prevent disruptions in what will eventually be a 70-million-passenger capacity facility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the specific role of Tech Mahindra in this project?

Tech Mahindra will set up and operate the integrated NOC-SOC. This involves 24/7 real-time monitoring of all digital infrastructure to detect cyber threats, prevent system outages, and ensure the smooth running of critical services like check-in and baggage handling.

Q2: When will Noida International Airport officially open?

Commercial domestic operations are now expected to begin in February or March 2026. The timeline was adjusted to allow for rigorous system testing and regulatory approvals, with international flights expected to follow later in the year.

Q3: How does a NOC-SOC benefit passengers?

It ensures that the “invisible” technology running the airport works without failure. By preventing network crashes and cyberattacks, the NOC-SOC ensures that passenger-facing services—such as biometric gates (DigiYatra), flight information screens, and app-based services—remain operational.

Q4: Who owns and operates the airport?

The airport is owned by the state-run Noida International Airport Limited (NIAL) but is developed and operated by Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL), a 100% subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG, under a 40-year concession.

Q5: What is the capacity of the airport at launch?

Phase 1 will feature one runway and one terminal capable of handling 12 million passengers annually.