In a significant move to boost air connectivity in North Bihar, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has floated a tender worth Rs 28.58 crore for the upgrade and development of Muzaffarpur Airport. The upgrade is expected to enhance the airport’s infrastructure to accommodate small aircraft, specifically those categorized under Code-2B. This development has raised hopes for the commencement of commercial flights from Muzaffarpur within a year, which has been a long-standing demand from the people of North Bihar.

AAI Invites Bids for Airport Upgrade

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued a tender for the development and upgradation of Muzaffarpur Airport, under an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 28.58 crore. This marks a crucial step in improving air connectivity to the region and making the airport suitable for the operation of Code-2B aircraft, which are small regional planes that can serve smaller cities.

The project will involve constructing a new terminal building, a pre-engineered fire station, and an Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower. In addition, other essential supporting infrastructure will also be developed to ensure smooth operations. According to the tender document, the project must be completed within 11 months, with an additional two-year defect liability period. This timeline indicates that the airport’s upgrade could be completed by late 2026, setting the stage for commercial flights shortly after.

Importance of the Muzaffarpur Airport Upgrade

Muzaffarpur, a key city in North Bihar, has long been devoid of significant air connectivity, limiting the region’s growth prospects. The upgrade of the airport is expected to have a transformative impact on the region’s infrastructure and economy. With better air connectivity, both residents and businesses in North Bihar will have easier access to major cities, enhancing trade, tourism, and overall economic development.

Additionally, the airport upgrade will support the operation of small aircraft, a crucial aspect of the government’s Regional Connectivity Scheme, UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik). The scheme aims to make air travel more affordable and accessible to smaller cities across the country. Once completed, the upgraded Muzaffarpur Airport will provide a gateway for regional air travel, connecting the city to major hubs in India.

Government Support for the Project

Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, Samrat Chaudhary, praised the project as a game-changer for the Tirhut region, which includes Muzaffarpur. He described the move as a “new option for air service in Tirhut” and expressed his gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for pushing forward this long-awaited project. He further congratulated the residents of Muzaffarpur and the surrounding Tirhut region, acknowledging the positive impact this development will have on the area.

The project is seen as a significant achievement in terms of regional development, as it aligns with the central government’s efforts to improve air connectivity to underserved areas. This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the region by improving access to transport and encouraging investment.

The Role of the Bihar Flying Institute

In addition to enhancing air connectivity, the upgraded Muzaffarpur Airport will also serve as a hub for aviation training. Nilesh Ramchandra Deore, Special Secretary of the Cabinet Secretariat Department and Director of the Directorate of Civil Aviation, mentioned that the Bihar Flying Institute plans to operate its satellite campus from the upgraded facility. This will create an opportunity for aspiring pilots and aviation professionals in the region to receive proper training without the need to travel to larger cities.

This move is expected to create a new generation of skilled professionals in the aviation sector, making the region more self-reliant in terms of aviation expertise. The presence of a satellite campus of the Bihar Flying Institute at Muzaffarpur Airport will contribute to the growth of the aviation industry in Bihar, providing both employment opportunities and a boost to local training infrastructure.

Impact on Regional Connectivity: The UDAN Scheme

The upgradation of Muzaffarpur Airport will play a crucial role in enhancing regional connectivity under the UDAN scheme. This scheme, launched by the Indian government, is aimed at making air travel affordable and accessible to the masses, especially in smaller towns and cities. As part of this initiative, the airport will facilitate the operation of Code-2B aircraft, which are small regional aircraft capable of operating in cities with limited infrastructure.

Once operational, Muzaffarpur Airport will serve as a vital link connecting North Bihar to larger cities, providing easier access to air travel for people living in the region. This will not only benefit passengers but also help in boosting tourism, business, and trade in the area. Furthermore, it will promote the overall development of the Tirhut region, bringing it closer to the rest of the country.

The Tendering Process and Future Developments

The tendering process for the upgrade of Muzaffarpur Airport is being conducted online through the central public procurement portal. Bids for the project are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, and once the winning bidder is selected, work on the upgradation will begin.

Given the importance of the project, it is expected that the selected contractors will begin construction as soon as possible, with a focus on meeting the 11-month completion deadline. The construction of key infrastructure such as the terminal building, fire station, and ATC tower will be prioritized, ensuring that the airport can begin operations as soon as possible after completion.

Long-Term Benefits for Muzaffarpur and Bihar

The upgradation of Muzaffarpur Airport is not just about improving air connectivity; it is also about creating long-term benefits for the entire region. Improved air travel options will attract more tourists and business investors to North Bihar, helping to stimulate local economies. The presence of an operational airport will also make it easier for residents to travel to other parts of the country, providing them with better opportunities for employment, education, and healthcare.

Moreover, the development of aviation infrastructure will encourage the growth of related industries, such as hospitality, retail, and transport, further boosting the economy of the region. The airport upgrade is thus an important step towards making North Bihar a more connected and prosperous part of the country.

The Airports Authority of India’s Rs 28.58 crore tender for upgrading Muzaffarpur Airport is a landmark step in improving regional connectivity in North Bihar. With the completion of this project, Muzaffarpur will become an important hub for small aircraft, supporting both passenger services and aviation training. The project’s positive impact on the region’s infrastructure and economy is expected to be significant, with improved accessibility to air travel for residents, tourists, and businesses alike.

As the bidding process moves forward and construction begins, the people of Muzaffarpur and the broader Tirhut region have much to look forward to. This upgrade will play a vital role in connecting North Bihar to the rest of India and will help the region unlock its full potential in the coming years.