Bhopal’s Raja Bhoj Airport achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first airport in Madhya Pradesh capable of handling the large Code-E Boeing 777-300ER, a wide-body aircraft primarily used for VVIP transport. This successful trial landing of the B777 300ER marks a transformative moment in the state’s aviation history, elevating the airport’s status as a key player in India’s growing aviation network.
The trial, executed by the Indian Air Force, tested the airport’s upgraded infrastructure, which now accommodates the Boeing 777-300ER, the largest aircraft to land at Raja Bhoj Airport. With a wingspan of 64.8 metres and a length of 74 metres, the aircraft is a testament to the expanded capabilities of the airport, which underwent significant improvements in 2023. These upgrades were specifically designed to cater to larger aircraft, ensuring Bhopal can meet the demands of VVIP air travel and future commercial aviation operations. According to Ramjee Awasthi, the Director of the Airport, this achievement represents a “historic day” for Bhopal. He noted that the airport has once again demonstrated its ability to handle any aircraft, highlighting the city’s growing prominence in India’s aviation landscape. The airport, which is now officially certified to handle the B777 300ER with specific restrictions on its take-off weight, has also seen a series of structural improvements. These include expanded runway turnpads, enhanced taxiway fillets, and three dedicated parking positions tailored to the wide-body aircraft’s requirements.
The infrastructure enhancements were made possible through a collaborative effort between the airport authority, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and various technical teams. These upgrades have significantly bolstered the airport’s operational flexibility, not just for wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777, but also for routine passenger services. Furthermore, the airport has incorporated advanced navigational aids, upgraded lighting systems, and strengthened pavements to ensure safety and efficiency during aircraft operations. This milestone holds particular importance for the broader objectives of enhancing regional air connectivity and modernising aviation infrastructure across India. By enabling the handling of wide-body aircraft, Raja Bhoj Airport is positioning itself to become a critical hub for both international flights and expanded cargo operations. Additionally, the upgraded facilities ensure that regular commercial flights will benefit from increased operational safety and flexibility.
The trial landing of the Boeing 777-300ER also underscores the airport’s readiness to support high-profile VVIP movements, opening new possibilities for future international connections. As the airport continues to serve its regular domestic flight schedule, it is now prepared for occasional operations involving larger aircraft, a development that promises to increase Bhopal’s prominence in India’s aviation sector. This achievement reflects not only the airport’s modernisation but also the growing ambition of Madhya Pradesh to position itself as a key player in the country’s aviation infrastructure, aligning with the national goal of boosting regional air connectivity while fostering sustainable, world-class facilities.
