In a significant development for the aviation sector in Bihar, the state government has formally requested international airport status for Darbhanga. This comes as the airport is undergoing major expansion and is expected to become the first fully operational international gateway for the state. The request was made by Bihar’s chief secretary, Pratyaya Amrit, who submitted the proposal to the Ministry of Civil Aviation. If approved, this would mark a major milestone in the state’s efforts to enhance its connectivity and improve infrastructure.
Bihar’s Expanding Aviation Infrastructure
The push for Darbhanga Airport to be granted international status is part of the ongoing efforts to boost Bihar’s aviation infrastructure. The state has long faced limitations when it comes to international air travel. Patna Airport, for example, has struggled with international operations since the suspension of its only international route. Flights to Nepal were suspended after the infamous hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 in 1999, which was en route from Kathmandu to Delhi and was forced to land in Kandahar. Since then, Patna has retained international airport status only on paper, with no active international services.
While Patna Airport holds the designation of an international airport, it lacks regular international operations. In contrast, Gaya Airport has direct connections to several Asian destinations, such as Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka, largely catering to Buddhist pilgrimage routes. However, Gaya does not hold full international airport status under the current classifications. The recent proposal for Darbhanga to become the first fully operational international airport in Bihar reflects the state’s desire to improve air connectivity, not only to international destinations but also to enhance domestic air travel.
The Status of Patna Airport and Its Limitations
India classifies airports into four categories: international, domestic, customs, and defense. International airports handle both domestic and international flights and typically have a larger operational capacity to accommodate such services. As of now, there are 29 international airports in India, all of which handle both inbound and outbound international flights.
Patna Airport, on the other hand, has been categorized as a customs airport. Customs airports primarily deal with customs inspections, duty collection, and anti-smuggling operations. These airports have limited civilian traffic, and the focus remains on customs operations. Despite its designation as a customs airport, Patna has not been able to offer full international services for over two decades. The lack of customs and immigration officers at the airport further complicates its ability to handle international flights, as both positions remain vacant.
Darbhanga Airport’s Expanding Capacity
Work is already underway to upgrade Darbhanga Airport to meet the requirements for international operations. The runway, which currently measures 2,743 meters in length, is being extended to 3,657 meters. The expansion involves the acquisition of 89.75 acres of land at an estimated cost of ₹244.6 crore. This extension will allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft, essential for international flights.
In addition to the runway extension, the district administration in Darbhanga has been asked to submit a requisition for a logistics park near the airport. This move signals plans to develop the surrounding area as a regional aviation and cargo hub. The creation of a logistics park would provide additional infrastructure to support both passenger and freight services, further boosting the region’s economic prospects.
Bihar’s Push for Improved Connectivity
The proposal to grant Darbhanga international airport status aligns with the state’s broader push to improve infrastructure and connectivity. By securing this status, Bihar would become more accessible to international travelers, which could boost tourism, business, and regional trade. The state’s economy stands to benefit significantly from this upgrade, with improved air connectivity attracting both national and international investment.
Currently, Darbhanga is one of the few cities in Bihar with the potential to handle international air traffic. The city’s strategic location in the northern part of the state makes it an ideal hub for both domestic and international flights. The expansion of Darbhanga Airport and the proposal for its international status are key steps toward improving Bihar’s position on the national and international aviation map.
A Landmark Development for Bihar
If the Ministry of Civil Aviation approves the request for Darbhanga’s international status, the airport will become the first fully operational international gateway for Bihar. This would be a landmark achievement for the state, considering the challenges it has faced in expanding its aviation infrastructure. The successful upgrade of Darbhanga Airport would not only enhance Bihar’s connectivity but also contribute to its economic development by facilitating greater trade, tourism, and business opportunities.
Furthermore, the creation of a logistics park near the airport would make the region an attractive destination for cargo operations, particularly in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and e-commerce. Darbhanga’s new international status would position it as a key player in the state’s economic growth, attracting investments and creating new job opportunities.
The Future of Darbhanga as an International Gateway
With its growing infrastructure and expanding capacity, Darbhanga is set to become a vital hub for air travel in Bihar. The proposed international status will bring significant advantages to the region, including the potential for new international flight routes, increased tourism, and a more robust economy. For the state of Bihar, this development represents a major leap forward in terms of connectivity and modernization.
In conclusion, Darbhanga’s potential to become Bihar’s first fully operational international airport is a reflection of the state’s commitment to enhancing its aviation infrastructure and improving its connectivity to the rest of the world. If approved, the international status will not only bring economic benefits to Darbhanga but also contribute to the overall growth and development of the state. With the expansion of the airport already underway and plans for a logistics park in place, Bihar is on track to establish a new international gateway that will benefit the entire region.
