Author: Bihar Say | Amrita |

Bihar’s Skyward Surge: How Aviation is Redefining Connectivity in the State

The skies over Bihar are buzzing like never before! In just two decades, the state has witnessed an unprecedented 17-fold surge in air travel. With new airports, expanded infrastructure, and booming passenger traffic, Bihar is soaring into a future of seamless connectivity and economic growth.

From Two Airports to a Sky Full of Possibilities

Back in 2005, Bihar had only two operational airports—Patna and Gaya. Today, the state is investing heavily in aviation, ensuring that no location is more than 200 km away from an airport. Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena confirmed that this ambitious plan is in full swing, transforming Bihar into a key aviation hub.

Aviation Boom: Passenger and Aircraft Growth

Bihar’s aviation landscape has evolved drastically over the last 20 years:

• 2005-06: 4,788 flights carried 2.48 lakh passengers.
• 2023-24: 29,614 flights transported 42.86 lakh travelers.

That’s a 6x rise in flights and a 17x increase in passengers—a staggering growth that highlights the state’s potential as a major air transit hub.

Darbhanga Airport: The Lifeline of North Bihar

Launched on November 8, 2020, Darbhanga Airport quickly became one of Bihar’s busiest hubs:

• 2023-24: Over 3,335 flights took off, carrying 5.26 lakh passengers.
• The state has sanctioned ₹245 crore for a 90-acre expansion, setting the stage for international operations.

Upcoming and Expanding Airports in Bihar

1️⃣ Raxaul Airport

• Land Acquisition: 139 acres.
• Investment: ₹207 crore.
• Developed by: Airports Authority of India (AAI).

2️⃣ Birpur (Supaul) Airport

• Land Acquisition: 88.83 acres.
• Investment: ₹42.37 crore.
• Part of the UDAN scheme to boost regional air travel.

3️⃣ Purnia (Chunapur) Airport

• Major Road Project: Four-lane road from Goasi to Chunapur.
• AAI Initiative: Civil enclave construction began in March 2025.

4️⃣ Bihta Airport: The Game Changer

• Investment: ₹459.99 crore.
• Aircraft Capacity: A-321, B-737-800, A-320.
• Expected to decongest Patna Airport by 2027.

The Future of Air Connectivity in Bihar

The Bihar government is also planning to develop smaller airstrips in Bhagalpur, Valmikinagar, Madhubani, Munger, Saharsa, and Muzaffarpur under the UDAN scheme.

• January 13, 2025: State approval granted.
• February 19, 2025: The Civil Aviation Ministry’s project evaluation committee gave the green light.

With massive investments, strategic expansions, and government backing, Bihar’s aviation future is brighter than ever. This growth will fuel tourism, business, and overall development—bringing the state closer to global connectivity.

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