HomeLatestShillong Airport to Welcome Larger Aircraft with Runway Extension by 2027

Shillong Airport to Welcome Larger Aircraft with Runway Extension by 2027

Shillong Airport is poised for a significant transformation, with its proposed expansion and upgrading anticipated to conclude by mid-2027. This crucial infrastructure enhancement aims to facilitate the landing of larger aircraft, marking a pivotal moment for regional connectivity and economic development. The modernisation initiative promises to revolutionise air travel for residents, reducing reliance on distant hubs and fostering a more accessible and equitable urban landscape.

The comprehensive upgrade encompasses a substantial expansion of the runway by an additional 571 metres, alongside the strengthening of the apron and bays. These critical modifications are designed to accommodate larger commercial aircraft, including the A320 series, dramatically increasing the airport’s operational capacity and safety standards. Furthermore, the existing terminal building, currently spanning approximately 5,000 square metres, is slated for a significant expansion to 10,500 square metres, ensuring enhanced passenger comfort and processing efficiency.

While a contractor has been identified as the lowest bidder for the project, the formal declaration and issuance of the work order await the completion of certain administrative formalities. Following this, the construction phase is projected to span 18 months. A key prerequisite for the commencement of work is the acquisition of environmental clearance, a process that is expected to take approximately three months, underscoring the commitment to sustainable development practices within the project’s framework.

Upon completion, Shillong Airport’s daily passenger handling capacity is projected to surge to approximately 1,600 individuals, a more than five-fold increase from the current figure of 300. This dramatic expansion will enable direct flights to major cities across the nation, eliminating the current necessity for travellers to commute to Guwahati’s LGBI Airport for broader connectivity. This enhanced accessibility is vital for boosting tourism, facilitating business, and improving overall logistical efficiency for the region.

The ambitious project requires a total of 22 acres of land for its full expansion and development. While a portion, specifically 10.3 acres, has been secured from the Defence Department on a leave-and-licence basis, the state government is actively working to acquire the remaining 11.7 acres. A recent directive from the High Court of Meghalaya has further underscored the urgency, instructing the state government to secure Cabinet approval for this land acquisition within a three-week timeframe, highlighting the collaborative efforts required for such large-scale public infrastructure projects.

This strategic investment in aviation infrastructure is set to unlock new avenues for economic growth and social development in Meghalaya. By improving air accessibility, the upgrade contributes to the vision of creating more sustainable and equitable cities, reducing travel burdens, and fostering greater integration with the national economy. The modernisation of Shillong Airport is a testament to the region’s commitment to building resilient and well-connected urban centres for the future.

Also Read :Airport anchored cities spark unprecedented housing plot price boom across India 

Shillong Airport to Welcome Larger Aircraft with Runway Extension by 2027
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