Patna: Bihar is preparing its first comprehensive Aviation Vision and Policy as the state looks to expand its airport network and develop aviation-related services beyond passenger flights.
Under the proposed plan, facilities for aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), pilot training and other aviation-related activities could be developed within Bihar.
The proposed greenfield airports at Sonpur and Ajgaibinath Dham are expected to be central to the state’s aviation expansion strategy.
KPMG To Prepare Aviation Policy
The state government has decided to prepare the policy as a roadmap for the development of Bihar’s aviation sector over the coming years.
KPMG India Services LLP, Gurugram, has been appointed as the consulting agency for preparing the policy.
The company will receive Rs 86.17 lakh as consultancy fees for the assignment.
The policy is expected to examine where new airports may be required, how existing airports can be used more effectively and how private investment can be attracted to the sector.
Bihar To Develop Its Own MRO Facility
One of the major proposals is to develop an MRO facility in Bihar.
MRO refers to the maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft. At present, the state depends on facilities outside Bihar for major aircraft maintenance and repair work.
The new aviation policy will explore the possibility of developing such facilities at the proposed Sonpur and Ajgaibinath greenfield airports.
The move could reduce the state’s dependence on aviation maintenance facilities in other states and create opportunities for aviation-related employment and technical skills.
Muzaffarpur, Birpur, Valmikinagar And Saharsa In Network
The proposed aviation strategy will also cover existing state-owned airports being developed under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme.
These include airports at Muzaffarpur, Birpur, Valmikinagar and Saharsa.
The policy is expected to examine how these airports can be operated more effectively and how their existing infrastructure and other resources can be better utilised.
This would allow the state to look at its aviation network as a wider system rather than developing individual airports separately.
Focus On Investment And Employment
The government wants aviation development to extend beyond passenger services and become a source of investment, employment and skill development.
The policy will therefore examine ways to attract private investment and create an ecosystem covering airport operations, aircraft maintenance, training and other aviation-related services.
The proposed Sonpur and Ajgaibinath greenfield airports are expected to play an important role in this larger plan.
Roadmap For Bihar’s Aviation Sector
The Aviation Vision and Policy is expected to provide a long-term framework for the state’s aviation sector, including airport expansion, better utilisation of existing facilities, MRO services, training and private investment.
The initiative marks a move towards developing aviation infrastructure and related services within Bihar, with the government seeking to build an ecosystem that goes beyond air connectivity alone.
