Wings Over Kumaon: The ₹387 Crore Makeover of Pantnagar Airport

Pantnagar Airport in Uttarakhand is set to undergo a major expansion aimed at transforming it into a key aviation hub for the Kumaon region.

A central component of the upgrade is the construction of a new 3,000-metre runway, replacing the existing 1,340-metre strip. This will enable operations of larger aircraft, including Boeing and Airbus models, significantly improving air connectivity between Kumaon’s hill districts and major cities across India.

The first phase of the project includes the construction of a new terminal building at an estimated cost of ₹387 crore. Spread across 8,500 square metres, the terminal will have the capacity to handle 475 passengers at a time and more than one million passengers annually. Passenger facilities will include two aerobridges, escalators, food courts, retail outlets, and car rental services.

The expansion will also introduce cargo handling facilities at Pantnagar Airport for the first time, enabling faster movement of agricultural produce, industrial goods, and local products, and providing a boost to regional trade.

Commenting on the project, Pantnagar Airport Director Pawan Kumar said, “Pantnagar Airport serves as the primary air gateway to Kumaon. Its expansion will enhance connectivity and support economic growth in the region.”

News by Rahul Yelligetti.