Patna: In a significant boost to regional air connectivity in Bihar, the state government has accelerated work on the development of airports in Muzaffarpur and Raxaul under the Centre’s flagship UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme. Muzaffarpur’s Patahi airport is set to host not just a commercial airport but also a dedicated aviation training academy, the first of its kind in the region.
According to official sources, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) has been sought from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to begin construction of the boundary wall and runway. A budgetary allocation of ₹25 crore has been earmarked for the Muzaffarpur airport under the UDAN scheme.
Flight Training Academy Planned
A 15-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with AAI for establishing a Flight Training Academy at Muzaffarpur. The state’s Law Department is reviewing the proposal, and once cleared, construction will commence in full swing. In addition to the runway and terminal, plans are also in place for a VIP lodge at the airport. The project is expected to contribute significantly to both civil aviation infrastructure and skill development in the region.
Raxaul Airport Master Plan Amended for Bigger Aircraft
Meanwhile, progress is also being made at the proposed Raxaul airport, where amendments have been made to the master plan to accommodate A-320 aircraft, a major upgrade from earlier plans. The revision was prompted by constraints in diverting the National Highway running in front of the current airport site.
To support this expansion, an additional 139 acres of land will be acquired. The District Magistrate of East Champaran has been instructed to initiate the land acquisition process. The state has sanctioned ₹207 crore for land procurement, and ₹10 crore has already been released into the account of the District Land Acquisition Officer for disbursal of compensation.
9 Airports Under Development in Bihar
These developments are part of a broader strategy to improve air connectivity in Bihar. A total of nine airports across the state are currently under development with support from the Ministry of Civil Aviation through the UDAN scheme. These airports aim to connect remote areas with major cities, boosting tourism, trade, and economic development.
With airports in Muzaffarpur and Raxaul nearing critical milestones, Bihar is steadily moving towards enhancing its presence on the national aviation map.
