Patna: Bihar has undergone a dramatic transformation in air connectivity over the past two decades, marking a significant shift in infrastructure, economic activity, and accessibility. Once limited to just two operational airports in Patna and Gaya, the state’s aviation sector has witnessed exponential growth, positioning Bihar firmly on India’s air traffic map.
A Skyward Surge in Numbers
In 2005-06, Bihar recorded only 4,788 aircraft movements, with approximately 2.48 lakh passengers flying in and out of the state. Fast forward to 2023-24, and these figures have skyrocketed to 29,614 aircraft movements and 42.86 lakh passengers—an increase of six and 17 times, respectively.
Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena attributed this surge to coordinated efforts between the Bihar government and the Ministry of Civil Aviation. “We are committed to ensuring that no place in the state is more than 200 km away from an airport. Land acquisition for airport expansion is being carried out using state resources, while the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is overseeing infrastructure development,” he said.
Darbhanga Airport: A Game-Changer
Darbhanga Airport, located at an Indian Air Force station, has emerged as a crucial hub for North Bihar and the Mithila region. Commercial operations commenced on November 8, 2020, under the Centre’s UDAN scheme, linking Darbhanga to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. The airport saw an overwhelming response in its first year, quickly becoming one of Bihar’s key air travel hubs.
By 2023-24, Darbhanga Airport recorded 3,335 aircraft movements, catering to over 5.26 lakh passengers. With its rapid growth, the Bihar government has sanctioned Rs 245 crore for the acquisition of 90 acres of land, approved on January 10, 2025. The expansion aims to upgrade the airport to international standards, enabling operations of larger aircraft.
Expanding Bihar’s Air Network
The Bihar government has been proactive in pushing forward multiple airport development projects across the state. Several key approvals have been granted, paving the way for enhanced connectivity:
Raxaul Brownfield Airport
- Land Acquisition: 139 acres approved at a cost of Rs 207 crore (January 10, 2025).
- Development: To be executed by AAI.
Birpur Airport, Supaul
- Land Acquisition: 88.83 acres sanctioned at Rs 42.37 crore (February 4, 2025).
- Development: Planned under the UDAN scheme.
Purnia Civil Enclave
- Infrastructure Development: The Bihar government has approved a four-lane road between Goasi and Chunapur to improve airport access, with a total budget of Rs 14.86 crore.
- Construction: AAI began work on an interim civil enclave in March 2025, with boundary wall construction underway.
Bihta Civil Enclave
- Project Cost: Rs 459.99 crore.
- Completion Target: End of 2027.
- Aircraft Compatibility: Will accommodate large aircraft like A-321, B-737-800, and A-320.
- Objective: To ease passenger congestion at Patna Airport and boost industrial and economic growth in Bihar.
Development of Small Airports
The Bihar government has also greenlit the development of state-owned airports in Bhagalpur, Valmikinagar, Birpur, Madhubani, Munger, and Saharsa, alongside AAI’s Muzaffarpur airport, under the UDAN scheme. These airports will be equipped to handle small aircraft with up to 19 seats.
The approval process gained momentum on January 13, 2025, when the Bihar government consented to their development. Further, the Ministry of Civil Aviation granted in-principle approval on February 19, 2025, during a Project Evaluation Committee meeting.
Bihar’s Aviation Future
The concerted efforts of the Bihar government, AAI, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation are propelling the state towards a robust air infrastructure ecosystem. With strategic investments, expansions, and policy support, Bihar’s aviation sector is poised for unprecedented growth, bringing enhanced connectivity, economic opportunities, and regional integration to the state’s doorstep.
