Bihta Airport Expansion Approved, Runway to Double for Improved Flight Operations and Cargo Services in Patna

Bihta Airport, which is set to serve as an alternative to Patna Airport, is making progress. The Patna district administration has proposed to acquire nearly 192 acres of land for this expansion. This will allow the airport’s runway to be extended from 8000 feet to 12000 feet, making it capable of handling larger passenger and cargo planes.

The proposal, sent by District Magistrate Dr. Thyagarajan SM, detailed that the land will be acquired on both the east and west sides of the airport. Specifically, they want to acquire 171.26 acres on the east side and 20.60 acres on the west side. The estimated compensation for landowners is around Rs 665 crore.

This expansion will significantly improve flight operations, especially during bad weather. Currently, Patna’s Jaiprakash Narayan International Airport has a shorter runway, making it difficult for large aircraft to land. With the new 12000 feet runway at Bihta, more flights can operate smoothly regardless of weather conditions.

Additionally, there are plans for a 25 km elevated road connecting Danapur to Bihta, which is expected to be completed by March 2027. Once finished, the travel time from Patna to Bihta Airport will be just 25 minutes. This is a crucial development for the city, as it will enhance air travel and ease congestion at the current airport.

The next steps depend on government approval for the land acquisition. Once the Cabinet gives the green light, the formal process of acquiring the land will begin. This expansion is considered a vital part of Patna’s growth and development plans.