Kolkata: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Government of West Bengal have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop and revive key aviation infrastructure across the state, aiming to strengthen regional air connectivity and support economic growth.
The MoU was signed on October 6, 2026, in the presence of Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.
The agreement outlines plans to develop new Civil Enclaves at Hasimara and Kalaikunda, revive Balurghat Airport and construct a new airport at Chharra in Purulia in phases.
The proposed projects are expected to improve access to air travel across West Bengal and support tourism, trade, commerce and logistics.The initiative also aligns with the objectives of the government’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which aims to make air travel more accessible and affordable.
Key Airport Development Projects in West Bengal
Under the MoU, AAI and the West Bengal Government will work together to expand the state’s aviation infrastructure through four key development initiatives.
The projects covered under the agreement include:
- Hasimara: Development of a new Civil Enclave to support regional aviation connectivity.
- Kalaikunda: Development of a new Civil Enclave to expand aviation infrastructure.
- Balurghat: Revival of the existing airport to improve regional air connectivity.
- Chharra, Purulia: Development of a new airport in phases to expand aviation access in the region.
These initiatives are expected to strengthen the state’s aviation network and improve connectivity for residents, businesses and visitors. The phased development of the proposed airport at Chharra will also contribute to the expansion of aviation infrastructure in Purulia.
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MoU to Boost Regional Air Connectivity and Economic Growth
The collaboration between AAI and the West Bengal Government marks a significant step towards improving air connectivity across the state. Better aviation infrastructure can help reduce travel time, improve access to important destinations and facilitate the movement of people and goods.
The proposed developments are expected to benefit several sectors, including:
- Tourism: Improved connectivity can make regional destinations more accessible to tourists.
- Trade and commerce: Better air links can support business travel and commercial activities.
- Logistics: Expanded aviation infrastructure can strengthen regional transportation networks.
- Regional development: Improved access to air travel can support economic opportunities in areas served by the projects.
- Passenger convenience: The projects aim to provide faster, safer and more convenient air travel options.
The initiatives will also advance the objectives of the UDAN scheme by supporting the development of regional aviation infrastructure and improving access to air travel for people in underserved areas.
Senior Officials Attend MoU Signing Ceremony
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the West Bengal Government and the Airports Authority of India.
Key dignitaries present on the occasion included:
- Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Union Minister of Civil Aviation.
- Suvendu Adhikari, Chief Minister of West Bengal.
- Samir Kumar Sinha, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation.
- Asangba Chuba Ao, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation.
- Senior officials from the Ministry, the state government and AAI.
The participation of senior representatives from the Centre and the state highlights the importance of coordination between the two governments in expanding aviation infrastructure and improving regional connectivity.
About the Airports Authority of India (AAI)
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. It is responsible for managing and operating airports and providing air navigation services across India. AAI also undertakes the development and maintenance of aviation infrastructure at airports under its jurisdiction.
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