In a major push to enhance regional air connectivity, the Bihar government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to develop six new regional airports under the Centre’s flagship UDAN scheme. The pact was formalised at Bihar Niwas, New Delhi, with top officials, including Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena and Resident Commissioner Kundan Kumar, in attendance.

The planned airports will be located in Madhubani, Birpur (Supaul), Munger, Valmikinagar (West Champaran), Muzaffarpur, and Saharsa. An initial funding of INR 150 crore has been allocated, with INR 25 crore earmarked for each site in phase one, to develop civil enclaves, runways, and passenger infrastructure.

This initiative is part of India’s broader vision to add 50 regional airports over five years and surpass 350 airports by 2047. Bihar’s focus on smaller towns supports the goal of operating 19-seater aircraft to improve air access across remote regions, catalyze tourism, commerce, and generate employment.

“This MoU is a decisive step towards strengthening regional connectivity in Bihar. It will not only enhance the state’s transport infrastructure but also unlock new opportunities for development and investment,” said Amrit Lal Meena, stressing the significance of the agreement in fostering growth.

AAI will collaborate with Bihar’s Directorate of Civil Aviation to execute feasibility studies, DPRs, and technical assessments. Once finalized, groundwork will begin to build terminals, airstrips, ATC facilities, and modern passenger amenities.

This airport drive complements other ongoing aviation projects, such as runway expansions at Darbhanga, upgrades at Patna’s JPN airport, and the long-awaited Bihta airport terminal, highlighting a comprehensive effort to boost air travel across Bihar.