KKN Gurugram Desk | Patna is all set to unveil its newly constructed passenger terminal at the Jayprakash Narayan International Airport, which will officially open to travelers on June 3, 2025. The new terminal building, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 29, represents a significant leap in Bihar’s civil aviation infrastructure and passenger service capacity.

Key Highlights of the New Terminal at Patna Airport

• Opening Date: June 3, 2025

• Check-in Counters: 64 (previously 22)

• Parking Capacity: 1100 vehicles (up from 200)

• Number of Aerobridges: 5

• Baggage Belts in Arrival Hall: 4

• Aircraft Parking: 11 (9 Airbus A320, 2 ATR)

• Security X-ray Machines: 16 (up from 5)

• Floor-wise Separation: Ground Floor – Arrivals | First Floor – Departures

Modern Infrastructure Ready for Passenger Operations

The airport administration has informed all airlines and aviation service providers to begin shifting operations to the new terminal. Airlines are now relocating their ticket counters, offices, and ground service infrastructure to the upgraded facility.

On Sunday, a test-run involving an aircraft was conducted using one of the terminal’s aerobridges, confirming operational readiness. The aerobridge systems will be fully functional soon, enhancing the passenger boarding and disembarkation experience.

State-of-the-Art Layout: Arrivals and Departures Now Separated

In contrast to the earlier layout where both arrivals and departures happened through the same level using different gates, the new terminal introduces vertical zoning for better crowd management:

• Arrivals will be handled on the ground floor.

• Departures will take place on the first floor, accessible via elevated walkways.

These elevated corridors are connected to both the main entry gate and the multi-storey parking complex, ensuring smooth passenger flow and reducing congestion.

Major Upgrades That Transform the Passenger Experience

 Check-In Efficiency

• The number of check-in counters has been increased from 22 to 64.

• This is expected to drastically reduce long queues, particularly during peak travel times.

 Security & Screening

• 16 modern X-ray machines for security checks (up from 5 previously).

• This will streamline passenger screening and baggage scanning.

 Automated Systems

• 9 Automatic Tray Retrieval Systems (ATRS) have been installed.

• These systems enhance the speed and hygiene of baggage security processes.

 Aerobridges and Baggage Handling

• 5 aerobridges installed to handle simultaneous boarding of multiple aircraft.

• 4 conveyor belts now serve the arrivals area to expedite luggage delivery.

Parking and Accessibility: A Huge Leap in Convenience

One of the most striking additions to the new terminal infrastructure is the multilevel parking complex, which can accommodate 1,100 vehicles, compared to just 200 earlier. This new parking facility is directly connected to the terminal building via an elevated corridor, offering:

• Quick access to departure gates

• Safe and weather-protected walkways

• Real-time parking availability system

This is a much-needed upgrade for a city like Patna, which has seen a steep rise in air traffic over the past five years.

Aircraft Movement and Parking Gets a Boost

The new apron and taxiway facilities now allow for the parking of up to 11 aircraft at once:

• 9 slots are reserved for Airbus A320 category aircraft

• 2 slots for ATR-type regional aircraft

This is crucial in handling the increasing number of domestic and potential international flights operating out of Patna.

Safety & Security: CISF Strength Increased

In line with the rising passenger footfall and infrastructure expansion, the number of CISF personnel at the airport has been increased. The airport security blueprint has been revised to:

• Monitor entry and exit points more effectively

• Conduct real-time surveillance using upgraded camera systems

• Ensure emergency preparedness during high footfall events

Old Terminal Building to be Demolished Soon

Following the successful inauguration and transition of operations, the older terminal building, which had undergone temporary renovation in recent years, is now set to be demolished.

The cleared space will be repurposed to:

• Expand aircraft parking bays

• Allow more maneuvering space for larger aircraft

• Prepare for potential international operations in the future

Timeline of the Project and Future Expectations

The new terminal project, long delayed due to land constraints and administrative hurdles, was finally completed with focused efforts over the past two years. Here’s what lies ahead:

• June 2025: Full operationalization of the terminal for domestic flights.

• End of 2025/Early 2026: Potential opening for international flights, pending final clearance.

• 2026–2028: Additional expansions depending on traffic forecasts, including cargo terminals and new runways.

Passenger Reactions: Optimism and Excitement

Local travelers and frequent flyers from Bihar have expressed excitement about the new facilities. Here’s what some passengers said:

“The new terminal finally gives Patna the airport it deserves. It feels modern, efficient, and professional.” – Ankita Sinha, entrepreneur from Patna

“Long queues used to be a nightmare during holidays. The increased check-in counters and baggage belts will make a huge difference.” – Sushil Kumar, frequent flyer

Why This Terminal Matters for Bihar’s Growth

The opening of the new terminal aligns with broader goals of regional development, investment promotion, and tourism growth in Bihar. With Patna being one of India’s most densely populated cities, the enhanced airport is expected to:

• Improve business connectivity

• Attract domestic and foreign tourists to places like Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, and Vaishali

• Support education, healthcare, and industrial travel to and from the state

With the launch of the new terminal at Jayprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna steps confidently into a new era of aeronautical growth and passenger service excellence. Enhanced with cutting-edge facilities and built to global standards, the terminal is a game-changer for Eastern India’s aviation map.

As services begin from June 3, 2025, travelers can expect faster check-ins, smoother security processes, improved amenities, and better connectivity—all in a facility that reflects both technological progress and cultural heritage.