The Government of India had two main aims in wanting to modernize the airport and improve the efficiency of its operations and financing while retaining some influence. By choosing a public-private partnership, the Indian government has retained influence on the operation of DIAL through the AAI's 26 percent shareholding but does not have control. DIAL has arranged external financing to fund a major program to upgrade the airport, and DIAL's private-sector shareholders include specialist airport operators.
This airport is the second largest in India in terms of passengers handled and has seen significant growth-in the three years from the end of 2004 to 2007, passenger numbers grew 25 percent per annum. The opportunity to invest in the enterprise was attractive to private investors, and 10 groups responded to the initial expression of interest, with 6 groups selected to submit detailed bids.