Patna: Bihar is preparing for a major expansion of its aviation network, with the government targeting 13 operational airports in the state by 2030.
At present, regular commercial flights operate from Patna, Gaya, Darbhanga and Purnia. Under the expansion plan, several smaller cities and towns are being brought into the state’s air connectivity network.
The proposed developments are expected to reduce the dependence of residents of districts such as Gopalganj, Kishanganj, Saharsa, Munger, Valmikinagar and Muzaffarpur on airports in Patna, Darbhanga and Bagdogra.
Six Cities in First Phase
Under the Central Government’s UDAN scheme, aviation infrastructure is being developed in Birpur, Saharsa, Munger, Valmikinagar, Madhubani and Muzaffarpur during the first phase.
An agreement for the development of these aviation facilities was signed between the Bihar government and the Airports Authority of India in June 2025.
Birpur Airport to Get Major Expansion
Birpur Airport in Supaul district is being developed to facilitate the operation of larger aircraft.
The government is in the process of acquiring 88.83 acres of additional land for the project. Around ₹64.80 crore has been earmarked for developing aviation infrastructure, including runway expansion, aircraft facilities and parking.
The existing 1,200-metre runway is proposed to be extended to around 3 kilometres. Located approximately five kilometres from the Nepal border, Birpur is also considered strategically important.
Saharsa to Get 19-Seater Aircraft Service
Saharsa Airport is being upgraded at an estimated cost of ₹35.14 crore, including construction of a new terminal building.
The project is expected to improve air connectivity for around 20 lakh people in Saharsa and neighbouring areas.
Plans are being considered to operate 15- to 19-seater aircraft from the airport. Infrastructure is also being developed to facilitate operations involving Dornier and Beechcraft aircraft as well as military aircraft.
Greenfield Airport Planned in Munger
A greenfield airport is proposed near Safiyabad in Munger, for which approximately 1,720.11 acres of land has been identified for acquisition.
The state government has approved around ₹773.46 crore towards compensation for land acquisition.
The existing runway, measuring approximately 758 metres in length and 25 metres in width, is proposed to be expanded to at least 1,200 metres in length and 70 metres in width.
The initial plan includes operations by 19-seater aircraft, along with facilities for night-time landings.
Valmikinagar Airport to Strengthen Tourism
An airport facility is being developed in Valmikinagar at an estimated cost of ₹38.64 crore.
The location is close to the Nepal border and the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, giving the project potential to support tourism in the region.
Once operational, the airport is expected to provide easier access for residents of Bettiah, Motihari and adjoining areas, who currently depend largely on Patna and Darbhanga airports.
Small aircraft are proposed to operate from the facility.
Madhubani to Get Heliport
Instead of a conventional airport, plans are underway to develop a heliport in Madhubani.
With Darbhanga Airport located around 30 to 40 kilometres away, the proposed heliport could provide an additional regional aviation facility and complement road connectivity in the area.
Patahi Airport Development in Muzaffarpur
Development work is also planned at Patahi Airport in Muzaffarpur.
Infrastructure including a terminal building, air traffic control facilities and a fire station is being developed at an estimated cost of ₹23.47 crore.
The airport covers around 101 acres and has a runway measuring approximately 1,050 metres. Plans call for 19-seater aircraft operations.
However, the project is currently on hold amid local opposition over the proposed runway expansion.
Second Phase to Cover Gopalganj, Kishanganj and Sonepur
After the first phase, the government plans to expand aviation facilities to Gopalganj, Kishanganj and Sonepur.
The projects are intended to bring more regions of Bihar into the air connectivity network and reduce the need for passengers to travel to distant airports.
Sabeya Airport in Gopalganj
In Gopalganj, the government is planning to develop Sabeya Airport in Hathua block for small aircraft operations.
The airport was originally used during World War II under British rule and was subsequently brought under the control of the Ministry of Defence after Independence.
Plans are now being considered to develop the facility for the take-off and landing of small aircraft.
Bihar’s Aviation Network Set for Expansion
The proposed projects represent a broader effort to expand air connectivity beyond Bihar’s existing major airports.
If implemented as planned, the expansion could provide residents of several smaller cities with closer access to air travel while also supporting tourism, trade, employment and regional economic activity.
The target of 13 operational airports by 2030 is expected to significantly reshape Bihar’s aviation network, although individual projects will depend on land acquisition, infrastructure development and other regulatory clearances.
