Muzaffarpur: The long-awaited plan to restart air services from Patahi airport in Muzaffarpur is finally gaining momentum. The construction of the airport’s boundary wall has been completed, ensuring security of the premises. After this important step, officials have now turned their full attention to the construction of the runway. All technical and administrative processes needed for the runway have been completed, and authorities say a tender will be issued shortly so that work can begin without further delay.
The runway at Patahi airport will be 1,300 metres long, which is enough for small aircraft to operate safely. A technical team has already surveyed the area, keeping in mind nearby buildings and safety standards for take-off and landing. The airport is spread over 101 acres, and officials have clarified that no additional land acquisition will be required. Renovation work inside the airport campus has been completed, with around Rs 25 crore spent on improving basic infrastructure.
Once operational, Patahi airport is expected to benefit people from Muzaffarpur as well as nearby districts such as Motihari, Sheohar, Sitamarhi and Vaishali. Currently, passengers from these areas have to travel three to four hours to reach Patna or Darbhanga airports. The reopening of Patahi airport will save time and reduce travel costs, especially for business travellers, students and patients who need to fly frequently.
Leaders and officials believe the airport will also help boost the local economy. Better air connectivity could support tourism at Gandhi-related sites in Motihari and help Muzaffarpur’s famous litchi trade reach bigger markets. New jobs are also expected in areas such as transport, hotels and logistics. Established in 1952, Patahi airport had regular flights until 1982. After decades of delay, people in north Bihar are hopeful that flights will soon return, bringing the region closer to the rest of the country.
