Bihar is poised to experience a significant boost in its aviation infrastructure as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced that international flights will soon operate from both Patna’s Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport and the upcoming Bihta Airport. This move is expected to enhance connectivity, create employment opportunities, and support the state’s economic growth.
During an inspection of the new terminal building at Patna airport, which is nearing completion, the Chief Minister reviewed key facilities such as the cafeteria, modern lounge, parking areas, and check-in counters. Officials assured him that the project would be finished by June, featuring eleven aerobridges and upgraded passenger amenities. Nitish Kumar emphasized the importance of timely completion to improve the overall travel experience for passengers.
The CM also visited the Bihta airbase, where the construction of a state-of-the-art terminal is underway. The facility will be equipped with ten aerobridges and advanced air traffic management systems. He also inspected the progress of the Khagaul-Bihta elevated road, which will ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity between the two airports.
Nitish Kumar highlighted that operating international flights from both Patna and Bihta airports would benefit the people of Bihar and reduce the burden on Patna’s existing airport. The improved infrastructure is expected to attract more airlines and facilitate increased passenger traffic, ultimately boosting local businesses and creating new job opportunities.
In addition to these developments, the state cabinet has approved several proposals to enhance air connectivity across Bihar. For the Raxaul Brownfield Airport, 139 acres of land will be acquired at a cost of Rs 207 crore following a pre-feasibility study and an obstacle limitation surface (OLS) survey by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Darbhanga airport’s runway will be extended to international standards to accommodate larger aircraft, with 90 acres of land to be acquired at a cost of Rs 245 crore. Furthermore, the cabinet has sanctioned Rs 42 crore for acquiring 88 acres of land for the development of Birpur airport in Supaul under the UDAN scheme. In total, Rs 495 crore has been allocated for land acquisition across these projects.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by several top officials, including Principal Secretary Deepak Kumar, Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena, and representatives from the AAI and Bihta Air Force station. Their presence underscored the state government’s commitment to transforming Bihar into a major hub for air travel.
With these strategic developments, Bihar is set to witness a new era of connectivity and economic progress, paving the way for better travel experiences and enhanced regional development.
