Israel looks to India’s airport expertise after Guwahati, Navi Mumbai terminals win global praise

Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar has expressed hope that Indian companies will soon participate in building airports in Israel, after two Indian airports earned global recognition for their architecture and design.

Azar’s remarks came after the Indian Embassy in Israel highlighted the inclusion of Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati and Navi Mumbai International Airport in the World’s Most Beautiful Airports 2026 list by the prestigious Prix Versailles.

Responding to the embassy’s post on social media platform X, Azar wrote, “Hope to see Indian companies building an airport in Israel as well soon!”

The envoy’s comment comes as India’s aviation infrastructure push gains international attention, with new airports increasingly combining modern technology, sustainable design and local cultural elements.

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Sharing the recognition, the Indian Embassy in Israel said, “India is building not just airports, but global landmarks.”

“Proud to see Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati and Navi Mumbai International Airport featured among the World’s Most Beautiful Airports 2026 by prestigious Prix Versailles,” the embassy said.

It added that the recognition reflected India’s infrastructure transformation, with airports that “seamlessly blend cutting-edge design, sustainability and local cultural heritage while delivering a superior travel experience for millions.”

Guwahati airport’s bamboo-inspired design wins praise

Terminal 2 of Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati was ranked third in a list of the seven most beautiful airports in the world featured by Architectural Digest.

The publication highlighted the terminal’s design inspiration from the bamboo orchid, with architect Nuru Karim creating a structure that resembles an oversized bamboo forest.

The terminal also incorporates elements of Assam’s cultural identity, including indigenous artwork and local handicrafts displayed across waiting and transit areas.

Architectural Digest noted that the ceiling patterns inside the terminal trace the course of the Brahmaputra River and its tributaries, connecting the airport’s design with the geography of the region.

Navi Mumbai airport’s lotus theme attracts global attention

Terminal 1 of Navi Mumbai International Airport secured the fourth position on the list.

The terminal’s design draws inspiration from the lotus flower, with Zaha Hadid Architects incorporating the motif across the structure, including its sweeping roof design and flower-like columns.

The publication also praised the airport’s interactive digital artworks, saying they add vibrancy and colour to passenger spaces.

The global recognition comes as India expands its aviation infrastructure to meet rising passenger demand. The country has been investing in new airports, terminal upgrades and modernisation projects to create larger and more efficient aviation hubs.

Navi Mumbai International Airport is among India’s major upcoming aviation projects and is expected to help reduce congestion at Mumbai’s existing airport.

Israel has also been focusing on upgrading and expanding its infrastructure networks. Azar’s remarks signal interest in India’s growing expertise in airport construction, design and large-scale infrastructure development.

Indian infrastructure companies have increasingly taken up projects across global markets, including roads, railways, ports and urban development.

The recognition of Guwahati and Navi Mumbai airports adds to India’s efforts to position itself as a global hub for aviation infrastructure, combining engineering capabilities with designs rooted in local heritage.