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Patna: The development of a new airport in Muzaffarpur under the Centre’s UDAN scheme has gathered momentum, with a flight training academy also set to be established at the site. A no-objection certificate has been sought from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the construction of the boundary wall and runway at the Patahi airstrip.
The project, which has received an allocation of Rs 25 crore, is part of a broader initiative to enhance regional air connectivity across nine cities in Bihar. As part of the Muzaffarpur plan, a 15-year memorandum of understanding has been signed with AAI for setting up the aviation training academy. Construction is expected to begin shortly following approvals from the state’s Law Department. A VIP lodge has also been proposed as part of the infrastructure development.
In parallel, progress is being made on the proposed airport at Raxaul, where amendments have been made to the master plan to accommodate A-320 aircraft. The alignment of a nearby national highway has limited expansion options, prompting the need for an additional 139 acres of land. Instructions have been issued to the District Magistrate of East Champaran to initiate the acquisition process.
A total of Rs 207 crore has been approved for land acquisition in Raxaul, with Rs 10 crore already deposited in the account of the District Land Acquisition Officer for compensation to affected landowners. These initiatives mark a significant step in boosting aviation infrastructure in Bihar, aiming to improve connectivity and create new training opportunities for aspiring pilots.
