About 35 kilometers from the heart of Patna, where quiet farmlands meet dusty roads, something big is taking shape. What was once just an ambitious blueprint on a government desk is now rising swiftly from the ground – ‘Bihta Airport’, Bihar’s next big aviation leap, is fast approaching reality along with the new Terminal building in Patna which is rapidly nearing completion. 

The new terminal at Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna is on track for completion by mid-April 2025. This state-of-the-art facility is set to transform air travel in the region, addressing the increasing passenger traffic and enhancing overall connectivity.​ 

The upcoming terminal spans an impressive 65,155 square meters across two levels, designed to accommodate 4,500 passengers during peak hours. This expansion will elevate the airport's annual passenger handling capacity from the current 3 million to 10 million, marking a substantial improvement in its operational capabilities.

Key features of the new terminal include:​ 

Increased Aircraft Parking Bays: The addition of six parking bays will bring the total to eleven, facilitating smoother aircraft operations. ​

Advanced Passenger Facilities: Travelers will benefit from 54 check-in counters, five passenger boarding bridges, five conveyor belts, and eight in-line X-ray baggage inspection system (XBIS) machines, all aimed at ensuring efficient and comfortable transit. ​

Architectural Inspiration: The terminal's design draws from the historic Nalanda University ruins, incorporating elements of Bihar's rich cultural heritage into its modern structure. 

Future Prospects

The expansion of Patna's airport is a critical component of Bihar's broader strategy to enhance its aviation infrastructure. By alleviating congestion at the existing facilities and accommodating larger aircraft, the new terminal is poised to attract more airlines and increase flight frequencies. This development is expected to stimulate economic growth, boost tourism, and provide residents with greater connectivity to domestic and international destinations.​

In parallel, construction of a civil enclave at Bihta Airport, located approximately 35 kilometers from Patna, commenced on April 1, 2025. This initiative aims to further bolster the region's aviation capacity and is part of a long-term vision to establish Bihta as a hub for larger aircraft operations. ​ 

Anticipated Inauguration

While an official date is yet to be confirmed, there are indications that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may inaugurate the new terminal during his visit to Bihar on April 24, 2025. This event would underscore the project's significance and the central government's support for enhancing Bihar's infrastructure. ​

As the completion date approaches, stakeholders and residents alike are optimistic that the new terminal will usher in a new era of growth and connectivity for Patna and the broader Bihar region.