Pantnagar Airport Set for Major Expansion to Transform Kumaon's Aviation Hub
In a significant development for Uttarakhand's aviation infrastructure, the Pantnagar Airport in Rudrapur is undergoing a comprehensive expansion project aimed at upgrading it into a modern, large-scale aviation facility. Spread across 793 acres in the Terai region of Kumaon, the airport's transformation is poised to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth.
Runway and Terminal Upgrades to Accommodate Larger Aircraft
Currently, the airport's operations are limited by a runway of approximately 1,340 meters, which restricts it to small aircraft. Under the ambitious expansion plan, this runway will be replaced with a new, state-of-the-art runway measuring 3,000 meters in length and 45 meters in width. This upgrade will enable the airport to handle larger passenger aircraft, including Boeing and Airbus planes, thereby improving air links between Kumaon and major cities across India.
The first phase of the project focuses on the construction of a new terminal building, with an estimated cost of Rs 387 crore. The proposed terminal will span 8,500 square meters and is designed to handle 475 passengers at a time, with an annual capacity of over one million passengers. Planned facilities include:
- Two aerobridges for seamless boarding
- Escalators and elevators for passenger convenience
- Automated parking systems
- Food courts and retail outlets
- Car rental services
Boosting Tourism and Industry in the Kumaon Region
Officials emphasize that the improved connectivity is expected to significantly support tourism in popular hill districts such as Nainital, Almora, Pithoragarh, and Champawat. Additionally, the expansion will benefit industries located in SIDCUL (State Industrial Development Corporation of Uttarakhand Limited), the agricultural university, and other industrial units in the Terai region.
A key highlight of the project is the introduction of cargo services from Pantnagar, marking a first for the region. This initiative is anticipated to facilitate faster transport of agricultural produce, industrial goods, and local products to major markets nationwide. Farmers and small entrepreneurs, particularly those involved in coarse-grain cultivation and other hill produce, are expected to reap substantial benefits from this enhanced logistics capability.
Enhanced Apron Capacity and Security Infrastructure
The apron capacity at the airport is also being expanded to accommodate increased flight operations. Currently, the facility can park only two aircraft at a time, but the upgraded apron will allow for up to five aircraft simultaneously, enabling a rise in flight frequency and efficiency.
Pawan Kumar, Director of Pantnagar Airport, stated, "Pantnagar airport serves as the main air gateway to Kumaon. Its expansion will improve connectivity and support economic activity in the region." He added that work is underway to strengthen security and infrastructure with support from the state government, ensuring a safe and modern travel experience for passengers.
This expansion project represents a strategic move to bolster Uttarakhand's aviation sector, promising to unlock new opportunities for tourism, trade, and regional development in the Kumaon area.
