Patna: The Union government has granted in-principle approval for the construction of a Greenfield airport in Rajgir, a Brownfield airport in Raxaul, and the development of civil enclaves at Bihta and Purnia, marking a significant boost to Bihar’s aviation infrastructure.
This announcement comes in the wake of the Union Budget 2024-25, which emphasized the expansion of regional connectivity under the UDAN scheme. The budget outlined increased investments in Greenfield and Brownfield airports to enhance air travel accessibility in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Bihar, which has long struggled with limited aviation facilities beyond Patna, has been a key beneficiary of this initiative.
Survey at Rajgir Site
A team from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is scheduled to visit the proposed site for Rajgir’s Greenfield airport on February 6. The team will conduct an Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) survey, which assesses potential obstructions in the vicinity and evaluates airspace safety for aircraft operations.
According to an official, approximately 1,200 acres of land near Silao, close to Rajgir, has been identified for the project. A pre-feasibility survey was conducted in November 2024, and the upcoming assessment will determine the next steps for development.
Raxaul Airport Redevelopment Plans
The proposed redevelopment of Raxaul’s Brownfield airport is also gaining momentum, with efforts underway to allocate around 140 acres of land for the construction of a new terminal and associated infrastructure. While the airstrip is owned by AAI, it has remained non-functional for several decades. The development aims to restore operations and boost cross-border connectivity with Nepal, given Raxaul’s strategic location near the Indo-Nepal border.
Progress at Bihta and Purnia
Meanwhile, work on a civil enclave at Bihta is expected to begin within a month. Bihta, located about 40 km from Patna, has long been viewed as an alternative to the congested Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in the state capital. The planned civil enclave is expected to handle commercial passenger flights, easing pressure on Patna’s existing airport.
Similarly, the proposed development at Purnia is set to improve accessibility to Bihar’s northeastern regions, which currently rely on limited rail and road connectivity.
