In a major push to Bihar’s aviation and infrastructure development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the new terminal building at Jayprakash Narayan International Airport in Patna and laid the foundation stone for a new civil enclave at Bihta Airport. These landmark projects by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) promise to significantly enhance the passenger experience and boost regional connectivity.
What’s in It for the Passengers?
1. More Space, Less Waiting:
The new terminal at Patna Airport is a sprawling 65,150 square metre facility — six times larger than the existing one. Built at a cost of ₹1,200 crore, it is equipped to handle 1 crore passengers annually, drastically reducing congestion and improving ease of movement within the airport.
2. Faster Check-ins & Baggage Handling:
With 64 check-in counters, 16 X-ray baggage inspection systems (X-BIS), five aerobridges, and four baggage conveyor belts, passengers can expect shorter queues, faster processing, and smoother boarding and arrival experiences.
3. Ample Parking Space:
A multi-level car park with 1,100 slots has been built to ease vehicular movement and ensure convenient access for travelers and their families.
4. More Flights, Better Connectivity:
The enhanced apron at Patna can now park 11 aircraft simultaneously, increasing flight handling capacity and allowing for more seamless scheduling, including during peak travel hours.
Bihta Airport: A New Gateway
The upcoming civil enclave at Bihta, being developed at a cost of ₹1,413 crore, will cater to 50 lakh passengers annually and serve as a secondary airport to ease the load on Patna.
Passenger Benefits at Bihta:
14 X-BIS machines, six aerobridges, and six baggage belts for quicker and more efficient operations
64 check-in counters and 16 self-service kiosks to enable speedier, tech-driven travel processes
Apron designed for 10 aircraft for better operational efficiency and direct air connectivity
Beyond Travel: Tourism, Culture & Economy
Passengers flying in and out of Bihar can also look forward to an enriched travel environment that reflects the art, culture, and heritage of the region. The terminals are expected to showcase local artistry, while improved connectivity will boost tourism, hospitality, healthcare, and education — ultimately creating jobs and stimulating the economy.
With these developments, Bihar is set to emerge as a stronger aviation hub in eastern India — a major step forward in making air travel more accessible, efficient, and passenger-friendly.