The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Airports Authority of India's (AAI) proposal to develop Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi. The project includes the construction of a new terminal building, apron extension, runway extension, a parallel taxi track, and associated works.

The estimated financial outlay for this project is Rs. 2869.65 crore, aimed at increasing the airport's passenger handling capacity from the current 3.9 million passengers per annum (MPPA) to 9.9 MPPA. The new terminal building, covering 75,000 square meters, is designed to handle 6 MPPA and accommodate 5000 peak hour passengers (PHP). This new facility will offer visitors a glimpse into Varanasi's rich cultural heritage.

The development plan also includes extending the runway to 4075 meters by 45 meters and constructing a new apron to accommodate 20 aircraft. The project aims to develop Varanasi airport as a green airport, prioritizing environmental sustainability through measures such as energy optimization, waste recycling, reducing carbon footprint, utilizing solar energy, and incorporating natural daylight throughout the planning, development, and operational stages.