Patna is poised to redefine its aviation landscape with the imminent launch of a second commercial airport at Bihta, located approximately 35 km from the city centre.
This ambitious project aims to ease the congestion at Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport while enhancing Bihar’s air connectivity, both domestically and internationally. The Bihta airport, under rapid development, is expected to become operational in the near future, catering to a growing influx of passengers and boosting regional economic activities. Complementing this, the ongoing expansion of Patna airport is scheduled to be completed by mid-April, marking a transformative phase in the state’s aviation infrastructure.
The new Patna terminal, designed to handle up to 4,500 passengers during peak hours—an increase from the current capacity of 1,300—will be inaugurated during the visit of the Prime Minister to Bihar on April 24, as per official sources. The facility will feature state-of-the-art passenger amenities, including 54 check-in counters, five aerobridges, and advanced security systems, all set to provide a seamless travel experience. The airport expansion project, which has been in the pipeline since 2016, is spearheaded by leading construction firms with architectural inputs from global experts. The new terminal, sprawling over 65,155 sqm, is designed to accommodate up to 10 million passengers annually, a significant leap from the current capacity. The architectural design draws inspiration from the ancient Nalanda University, blending modern aesthetics with Bihar’s rich cultural heritage.
Key features include a central green courtyard, murals celebrating Bihar’s historical figures such as Gautam Buddha and Mahavira, and dedicated spaces honouring the freedom fighter Jayaprakash Narayan. The integration of Madhubani artwork and Chhath festival themes will offer passengers a unique cultural experience while awaiting their flights. In parallel, the Bihta airport’s civil enclave construction commenced on April 1, with plans to establish a modern terminal spanning 68,000 sqm. This new facility will handle 3,000 passengers per hour and cater to up to five million passengers annually once fully operational. The terminal will boast advanced infrastructure, including 64 check-in counters, five boarding bridges, and VIP lounges, complemented by enhanced cargo handling capabilities.
Bihta’s strategic advantage lies in its expansive 8,000-foot runway, designed to accommodate large aircraft such as Airbus A320s and Boeing 737s. The airport’s location, free from the spatial constraints faced by Patna airport, allows for future expansions, including plans to extend the runway to 12,000 feet. To improve connectivity between Patna and Bihta, the state government is also developing the Khagaul-Bihta elevated road, expected to streamline transit between the two airports. This project is anticipated to reduce travel time significantly, offering passengers a hassle-free transfer experience. The expanded Patna airport will continue to handle smaller aircraft due to runway limitations, while Bihta will support larger, wide-bodied aircraft operations. This strategic division aims to optimise airport efficiency, reduce delays, and accommodate the growing demand for air travel in Bihar. The aviation sector in Bihar is on the cusp of a transformation, with these developments set to propel the state onto the national and international aviation map. Beyond enhancing connectivity, the airports are expected to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and attract investment in tourism and trade.
As Bihar prepares to embrace this new chapter in its aviation journey, the dual airport infrastructure promises to be a cornerstone of the state’s economic development, connecting Patna and Bihta to the world with unprecedented ease and efficiency.
Patna Airport Expansion Set to Transform Bihar Air Connectivity
