Bihta: Bihar's New International Gateway Takes Flight

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is leading the development of a civil enclave at the Bihta Airbase, which is set to become Patna’s second airport and a key aviation hub for Bihar, significantly enhancing regional and international connectivity. The project is targeted for completion by 31 March 2027 and will be capable of handling wide-bodied aircraft such as Boeing 777s and 747s.

To support long-haul international operations, AAI has proposed acquiring an additional 191 acres to extend the existing 8,200-foot runway to 12,000 feet. A ₹459-crore construction contract has been awarded to an India-Russia joint venture, including ₹438 crore for a modern, three-storey passenger terminal and ₹21 crore for operations and maintenance. The total project cost is estimated at ₹1,413 crore, encompassing the terminal, taxiway, aircraft apron, utility complex, multi-level parking, access roads, and a residential colony.

The new terminal will cover 68,000 square meters and feature: 64 check-in counters, 5 boarding bridges, 10 gates, 6 baggage carousels, VIP lounges, Energy-efficient systems, Advanced security infrastructure, Architecturally, the terminal will blend modern design with Buddhist-inspired elements, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage.

The apron will accommodate 10 Code C aircraft bays, and a 600-meter taxiway will link it to the runway. The facility will share air traffic control (ATC) and fire services with the Indian Air Force, which currently operates from Bihta.

This ambitious expansion positions Bihta to play a pivotal role in Bihar’s aviation growth and addresses capacity constraints at the existing Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.