Purnia Airport Achieves Major Milestone with Over 1 Lakh Passengers
Purnia Airport in Bihar has reached a significant achievement by serving more than 1 lakh passengers until January 31, 2026. This milestone highlights the airport's expanding role in strengthening regional air connectivity across the state and the broader Seemanchal region.
Rapid Growth Since Commercial Launch
Commercial operations at Purnia Airport commenced on September 15 last year, and the facility has demonstrated impressive growth in a short period. Airport director Deep Prakash Gupta noted that the airport crossed the 50,000-passenger mark on December 12, 2025—less than three months after the launch of commercial flights.
"Continuing its strong growth momentum, the airport has now surpassed the 1 lakh passenger milestone in a remarkably short timeframe," Gupta stated. "This rapid rise reflects increasing public confidence and growing demand for air travel in the Seemanchal region and nearby areas."
Enhanced Passenger Facilities and Infrastructure Upgrades
To improve passenger convenience, several new services and infrastructure projects are underway:
- Car parking services have been introduced, including secure night parking facilities, with expansion of the parking area to accommodate increasing footfall.
- A four-lane road connecting NH-31 to Purnia Airport is in the planning and development phase, aimed at improving surface access for travellers.
- Construction of a new apron by the Airports Authority of India is progressing rapidly and is expected to be operational soon. Located closer to the terminal building, the apron will reduce aircraft turnaround time, improve operational efficiency, speed up baggage delivery, and enhance overall passenger experience.
- Tactile flooring has been installed inside the terminal to create guided pathways for visually impaired passengers, helping them navigate safely and independently.
Efficient Emergency Response and Future Capacity
The airport has demonstrated efficient emergency response capabilities, with three to four medical emergencies handled promptly and strictly as per Standard Operating Procedures. Effective coordination among doctors, airline staff, the Indian Air Force, and Air Traffic Control ensured timely assistance and passenger safety.
Looking ahead, the tendering process for a new full-fledged terminal building is in progress. Once completed, it will significantly increase passenger-handling capacity and improve service standards.
Advanced Talks for Instrument Landing System
Talks between the Indian Air Force and the Bihar state government are at an advanced stage for acquiring approximately 15 acres of land needed for installing an Instrument Landing System. Once operational, the ILS will facilitate aircraft movement in low visibility and adverse weather, improving reliability, reducing delays, and minimising diversions.
This comprehensive development at Purnia Airport underscores its growing importance in Bihar's aviation landscape, supporting regional connectivity and economic growth.
