Patna: A breath of relief swept through Patna’s Jai Prakash Narayan International (JPNI) Airport on Monday as a new departure gate sprung into operation. Nestled between departure gates 1 and 2, this addition promises to alleviate the congestion woes faced by passengers, a much-needed upgrade during the bustling festive season.
The inauguration of the new gate was a momentous occasion, graced by the presence of Airport Director Anchal Prakash and CISF Acting Commandant Pravesh Pandey, accompanied by an assembly of dedicated security personnel and airport staff. The ceremonial ribbon-cutting symbolized a critical step in improving the travel experience for passengers.
In a region where the footfall of travellers has been steadily surging, the demand for an additional gate became an imperative. The airport had been grappling with a surge in passenger numbers, leading to extensive queues, particularly during peak hours. Passengers endured prolonged wait times for entry, a situation that is now poised to change with the inauguration of the third departure gate.
The ongoing festive season, known for a surge in air travel, is expected to be significantly more manageable for passengers due to this expansion. It has become a customary sight to witness extensive lines forming, but the new gate aims to alleviate these congestion issues and grant travellers a more seamless experience.
Airport officials disclosed that passenger numbers at JPNI Airport had already witnessed a substantial increase of approximately 15 to 17 percent in the current financial year (2023-24) compared to the previous year. This growth shows no sign of slowing down, and ticket sales projections suggest a potential surge of 25 to 30 percent in passenger numbers for the current financial year. The airport’s expansion efforts are poised to accommodate this escalating demand and ensure a smoother travel experience for all passengers, he said.
