In a strategic move to enhance air travel infrastructure, Bagdogra Airport, also recognised as Siliguri International Airport, is gearing up for the construction of a new terminal set to commence next month. Positioned as the second busiest airport in the state, Bagdogra Airport plays a pivotal role as the gateway to the enchanting hill stations of North Bengal, including Darjeeling, Gangtok, Kurseong, Kalimpong, and Mirik.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is gearing up to start construction on the new terminal and associated infrastructure at Bagdogra airport next month, said Darjeeling MP Raju Bista.
“The foundation stone for the new terminal and infrastructure expansion will be laid next month” said Bista, after chairing the meeting of the airport’s advisory committee.
According to Bista, the Centre has allocated Rs 3,000 crore for this project, with half of the funds earmarked for the first phase. The tender process for Rs 1,000 crore worth of civil work has been finalized, with a Bengaluru-based firm awarded the work order. The remaining Rs 500 crore will be allocated for interior work.
Bista disclosed that the first phase, slated for completion by April 2026, will see the construction of a terminal spanning 70,000 square metres, with an additional 50,000 square metres planned for subsequent phases. The installation of six aero bridges and four remote bridges in the first phase will substantially boost the airport’s capacity to accommodate flights.
Situated 9 km southwest of the city center in Bagdogra, the airport functions as a civil enclave at Bagdogra Air Force Station. Having earned recognition as a limited international airport since 2002, it facilitates services to prominent destinations such as Bangkok–Suvarnabhumi and Paro, boasting the unique distinction of maintaining zero sales tax on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) among Indian airports.
The current terminal building, spanning an expansive 10,000 sq m, caters to 400 peak-hour passengers. The upcoming second phase of development is poised to revolutionise the airport’s capacity and facilities. Notably, the number of aerobridges will witness a substantial increase to 10, complemented by the addition of two remote bridges. This significant expansion will empower the airport to efficiently handle up to 16 flights simultaneously, marking a noteworthy enhancement from the existing capacity of four or five flights in parking bays.
The forthcoming terminal project aims to revolutionize the passenger experience, aligning with modern standards and addressing the growing demands of air travel. Bagdogra Airport’s pivotal role as a key aviation hub in North Bengal is set to be further solidified with these advancements. As construction prepares to kick off next month, the airport is positioned to emerge as a state-of-the-art facility, seamlessly connecting travellers to the picturesque destinations in the North Bengal region and beyond.
This strategic development not only aligns with the broader vision of advancing air travel infrastructure but also underscores Bagdogra Airport’s commitment to providing a world-class experience for both domestic and limited international travellers.
