BRICS Summit: 3 Russian Aircraft Make First International Landing at Noida Airport

Three Russian military aircraft landed at Noida Airport early Tuesday morning, marking the first arrival of foreign aircraft at the newly operational airport.

The aircraft touched down at around 5:30 am, with an IL-76 military transport plane among them. A Russian advance team and military officials were reportedly on board as part of preparations for the upcoming visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India.

The arrival comes ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit, scheduled to take place in New Delhi on September 12 and 13. The presence of the Russian aircraft at Noida Airport is linked to preparations for the high-profile diplomatic event and arrangements for the movement of foreign dignitaries.

Russian aircraft remain parked at Noida Airport

All three Russian military aircraft remained parked at the airport. Security personnel from Noida Airport, along with Russian officials and security teams, are overseeing the aircraft and related arrangements.

Foreign military aircraft visiting India have traditionally operated through Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Their arrival at Noida Airport marks a significant milestone for the new facility and its handling of international operations.

The landing also demonstrates the airport’s preparedness to accommodate high-profile international movements as India gets ready to host the BRICS gathering.

Putin expected at BRICS Summit

The 18th BRICS Summit will be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, bringing together several heads of state and government.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to attend the summit. The Russian military aircraft stationed at Noida Airport are part of the logistical and security arrangements being put in place ahead of the arrival and movement of foreign leaders.

The development comes as Indian authorities step up preparations for the summit, with security and protocol arrangements being coordinated for visiting delegations and dignitaries.