Two Indian airports were named among the World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026 by the Prix Versailles architecture and design award [1].
The recognition highlights India's growing influence in global aviation infrastructure and the shift toward integrating regional cultural identity into large-scale transit hubs.
Adani Airport Holdings Limited operates both recognized sites: the Navi Mumbai International Airport in Maharashtra and Terminal 2 of the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam [1], [2]. The Prix Versailles award identified two [3] Indian airports on its 2026 list, focusing on the aesthetic and functional quality of the structures.
The award recognizes the Navi Mumbai project for its lotus-inspired design and the Guwahati terminal for incorporating elements of local orchids [4]. These design choices are intended to reflect the specific cultural identities of their respective regions, while maintaining modern utility.
Beyond aesthetics, the Prix Versailles selection cited the airports for their sustainability features [4]. The integration of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems was a primary factor in the selection process for the 2026 honors [1], [4].
The award emphasizes a balance between iconic architecture and sustainable development. By blending local motifs with green technology, these hubs serve as gateways that introduce international travelers to Indian heritage through the built environment [4].
“Two Indian airports were named among the World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026”
The inclusion of these airports in the Prix Versailles list signals a strategic move by Indian infrastructure developers to move beyond mere capacity expansion. By prioritizing 'cultural architecture' and sustainability, India is positioning its aviation hubs as soft-power assets designed to enhance the national brand for arriving global travelers.
