World’s Most Beautiful Airports 2026: India’s Navi Mumbai and Guwahati Airports Make the Prestigious List

The Navi Mumbai International Airport and the new terminal of Guwahati Airport have been included in to the prestigious Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Airports List of 2026. This recognition highlights the India’s growing focus on to the world-class airport design, sustainability and passenger-centric infrastructure.

Two Indian Airports Received Global Recognition

Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) achieved the significant milestone when the two of the its airport projects were selected for the Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Airports 2026 list.

The recognized projects are the,

1. Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) – Terminal 1
2. Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA), Guwahati – Terminal 2

The recognition reflects the excellence in to architectural innovation, functionality, sustainability and passenger experience.

What is Prix Versailles?

Prix Versailles is an internationally renowned architecture and design award presented every year at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris since the year 2015.

This award honors the outstanding contemporary architectural projects across the various sectors that includes the airports, hotels, museums, campuses, railway stations and sports facilities.

The objective is to promote the intelligent sustainability by combining the cultural value, aesthetics and environmental responsibility.

Navi Mumbai International Airport’s Unique Design

Navi Mumbai International Airport was recognized for the its striking lotus-inspired architecture.

The terminal’s design integrates the,

• Futuristic architectural elements
• Advanced technology-driven operations
• Artistic and cultural themes
• Efficient passenger movement systems

The airport has been envisioned as the modern gateway which reflects the India’s emergence as the major global economic power. Its design seeks to combine the functionality with an iconic visual identity.

Guwahati Airport Terminal Inspired by Nature

Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport received the recognition for Terminal 2, whose architecture draws inspiration from the Bamboo Orchid, it is a symbol closely associated with the biodiversity of Northeast India.

The terminal incorporates the,

• Sustainable architectural practices
• Regional cultural influences
• Energy-efficient infrastructure
• Enhanced passenger comfort and functionality

This project highlights how the modern infrastructure can preserve and celebrate local identity while meeting global standards.

Other Airports on the 2026 Global List

The Prix Versailles 2026 shortlist also includes the airports and terminals from several countries,

• Guangzhou
• Frankfurt am Main
• Kandal Stueng
• Pittsburgh
• San Diego

Later in the year, three airports from the shortlist will receive the additional World Titles under categories such as the Prix Versailles, Interior and Exterior.

Importance of Airport Architecture

Modern airports are not just longer merely transportation hubs. They serve as the gateways to nations and contribute significantly to tourism, trade and investment.

Contemporary airport design focuses on to the,

• Sustainability and the environmental responsibility
• Passenger convenience and accessibility
• Integration of the local culture and heritage
• Smart technologies and operational efficiency