The Airport Authority of India has finalized a visionary masterplan for Bhopal’s Raja Bhoj Airport, aiming for a comprehensive three-phase development to be completed by 2047. This ambitious strategy is designed to accommodate future air traffic growth and significantly enhance airport infrastructure.
Phase 1 focuses on immediate improvements, including the expansion of the terminal building, the construction of new parking areas, and upgrades to air traffic control systems. These enhancements aim to streamline operations and elevate the passenger experience.
In Phase 2, the airport will undergo substantial upgrades with the addition of new taxiways, aprons, and hangars to support an increasing number of aircraft. Further terminal expansion will also be undertaken to manage growing passenger traffic, positioning Raja Bhoj Airport as a crucial regional hub.
The final phase, known as Ultimate Capacity, will be achieved by 2047. This phase includes extending the runway to 4,000 meters, necessitating the acquisition of approximately 65 acres of additional land. The extended runway will allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft, expand route options, and handle increased domestic and international flight volumes.
Airport Director Ramjee Awasthi emphasized the masterplan's comprehensive approach to addressing long-term requirements. The plan aims to support expected growth in passenger and cargo traffic while significantly improving infrastructure.
The expansion is projected to bring substantial economic benefits, including increased tourism and trade. Ensuring sustainable development and minimizing environmental impact will be crucial as the airport embarks on this transformative journey. The finalization of the masterplan marks a significant milestone in the airport's development, setting the stage for systematic and efficient enhancements to meet future needs.
News by Rahul Yelligetti