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Bihar strengthens airport development with dedicated civil aviation department

#Law & Policy#Infrastructure#India#Bihar
Last Updated : 16th Jan, 2026
Synopsis

Bihar has accelerated its airport development by operationalising a dedicated civil aviation department to oversee regional aviation projects. Key airports such as Darbhanga, Raxaul, Muzaffarpur, and Purnia are seeing faster land acquisition, tendering, runway extensions, and new terminal constructions. At Darbhanga, the expanded runway and civil enclave terminal are progressing ahead of schedule, while Raxaul and Muzaffarpur await tenders for upgrades. These initiatives build on earlier efforts under the UDAN scheme and agreements with the Airports Authority of India to improve connectivity, tourism, and economic growth in the state.

Bihar has strengthened its focus on airport infrastructure by creating a dedicated civil aviation department. The department is driving faster execution of regional airport projects through coordinated land acquisition, tendering, and construction planning. This move is expected to improve connectivity, particularly in smaller cities and towns, while supporting the state's broader economic goals.


At Darbhanga Airport, all land acquisition for runway extension is complete, and compensation to landowners is in progress. The runway is being extended to handle larger aircraft, including Airbus-320 and Boeing-737, which will increase passenger capacity and support commercial flights. Construction of a new civil enclave terminal is underway, featuring designs inspired by local art and cultural heritage. The terminal is intended to manage peak passenger traffic efficiently once operational.

Raxaul Airport is in the final stages of land acquisition, allowing runway extension plans to proceed. Once land formalities are completed, compensation will be released, and physical development is expected to begin shortly. The runway upgrade will support mid-size aircraft and increase regional connectivity, particularly with Nepal and other northern states.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is preparing tenders for upgrades at Muzaffarpur Airport, which will strengthen operational capacity, while Purnia Airport is set for a permanent civil enclave, with land already provided by the state government. Initial operations at Purnia have already started under the UDAN regional connectivity programme, and the new terminal will enhance infrastructure and passenger services.

These developments are part of a larger plan to enhance Bihar's regional aviation network. In previous years, agreements with AAI included greenfield and brownfield airport projects in locations like Rajgir, Raxaul, and Darbhanga to expand connectivity. The state has also focused on reducing aviation fuel VAT and implementing measures under the UDAN scheme to attract operators and ensure more regional air links.

Bihar's airport strategy is aimed at creating a more balanced aviation ecosystem across the state. By focusing on runway extensions, new terminals, and timely land acquisition, the state is enhancing travel convenience, promoting tourism, and supporting business activities in urban and remote districts. These coordinated efforts reflect Bihar's sustained commitment to integrating regional airports into the national aviation network.

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