Patna: The Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Vipin Kumar, visited Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport in Patna on Friday to review the progress of the new terminal building’s construction. During his inspection, Kumar urged construction agencies and engineers to accelerate the remaining work to ensure the terminal is ready for its new look by January 2025.
He also instructed the airport’s director to liaise closely with regulatory bodies such as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) to ensure timely completion.
Accompanying the chairman on the site visit were Dr. Sharad Kumar, Member (Operations), and Anil Kumar Gupta, Member (Planning). Later, Kumar met Bihar’s Chief Secretary, Amrit Lal Meena, to discuss the airport’s development.
A Rs 1,216.90-Crore Makeover
The airport’s expansion is part of a Rs 1,216.90-crore master plan, which includes the construction of a new terminal building, a multi-level car park, and additional parking bays. The new terminal, spanning 65,155 square metres, will significantly enhance passenger capacity, accommodating up to 3,000 people during peak hours—triple the current capacity of less than 1,000.
The upgrades will also boost annual passenger handling capacity from 3 million to 10 million. Six additional aircraft parking stands are being added, increasing the total to 11.
Modern Facilities and Unique Design
The terminal will feature cutting-edge passenger amenities, including 54 check-in counters, five passenger boarding bridges, five conveyor belts, and eight in-line X-ray baggage inspection systems, promising smoother and faster operations.
Its design draws inspiration from the ancient Nalanda University ruins, incorporating artwork and paintings reflective of the region’s heritage. The building has been awarded a four-star rating for its sustainable features.
Once completed, the revamped Patna Airport is expected to set a benchmark for world-class infrastructure and services in the region.
