Unveiling the New Integrated Terminal Building, Unlocking Opportunities and Potential in the Region

The Bihta Airport Project represents a significant milestone in India’s efforts to enhance air connectivity and strengthen defence capabilities. Explore this project’s economic opportunities, business potential, and positive regional impact.

The approval of the proposal by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to develop a New Civil Enclave at Bihta, Patna, Bihar, at an estimated cost of Rs.14,130 million, by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, underscores the strategic importance of this infrastructure project. This project is about building a new airport and laying the foundation for the region’s future development and prosperity.

The proposed infrastructure project at Patna Airport is a crucial strategic move undertaken by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to address the anticipated capacity saturation proactively. While AAI is diligently constructing a new terminal building to enhance passenger handling capabilities, limited land availability at the airport presents a significant constraint to further expansion.

Patna Airport Infrastructure Expansion Project

With its limited capacity, the existing infrastructure at Patna Airport is struggling to keep pace with the rapidly growing passenger traffic. The new terminal building, currently under construction, aims to address this issue by providing additional space and improved facilities. However, the airport’s expansion potential is restricted due to the scarcity of land.

The proposed infrastructure project aims to overcome this challenge and ensure Patna Airport’s long-term growth and sustainability. It envisions the development of a new parallel runway capable of accommodating larger aircraft and increasing the airport’s overall operational efficiency. The construction of a new runway would not only alleviate the capacity constraints but also enhance safety and reduce congestion in the existing airspace.

Furthermore, the project includes plans for the expansion of the existing terminal building, taking advantage of the additional space created by the new runway. This expansion would provide more passenger amenities, retail outlets, and other facilities, enhancing the traveller experience.

By embarking on this strategic infrastructure project, AAI is set to transform Patna Airport into a modern, efficient, and well-equipped aviation hub. The new runway and expanded terminal building will resolve the immediate capacity issues and position the airport for future growth and development. The project is expected to significantly boost the region’s tourism, trade, and economic activity while providing better connectivity and convenience for passengers and airlines.

Bihta Air Force Station: A Strategic Military Hub

Bihta, a significant town approximately 20 kilometres east of the contemporary Patna Airport, is vital in the Indian Air Force’s operations. Its strategic location and well-developed infrastructure have made it an essential base for the force.

Historically, Bihta has been a crucial military hub since the British Raj era. During World War II, the British established an airbase in Bihta, which served as a key logistical and operational centre for Allied forces. After India’s independence, the Indian Air Force took over the base and has since expanded and modernised its facilities.

Today, Bihta Air Force Station is a bustling hub of military activity. It houses various squadrons of fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. The base also boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure, including modern hangars, workshops, and training facilities.

One of Bihta Air Force Station’s primary roles is to provide air defence for the eastern region of India. Its proximity to the international border makes it ideal for intercepting and engaging potential threats. The base is also equipped with advanced radar systems and surface-to-air missiles to ensure the safety and security of the region.

In addition to its air defence mission, Bihta Air Force Station also plays a vital role in humanitarian and disaster relief operations. The base’s aircraft are often deployed to assist during natural calamities, such as floods, earthquakes, and cyclones. The IAF personnel stationed at Bihta are well-trained and equipped to handle various humanitarian emergencies.

Bihta Air Force Station is vital to the Indian Air Force, safeguarding the nation’s eastern borders. Its strategic location, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and dedicated personnel make it a key regional military base.

The New Integrated Terminal Building at Bihta Air Force Station

At the heart of Bihta Air Force Station’s operations lies the proposed New Integrated Terminal Building, a testament to India’s commitment to modernising its aviation infrastructure. With a sprawling area of 66,000 square meters, the terminal is designed to handle 3000 Peak Hour Passengers (PHP) and cater to 5 million passengers annually.

The terminal’s design incorporates scalability, allowing for future expansion as needed. With additional infrastructure, it can accommodate up to 10 million passengers annually, ultimately reaching a capacity of one crore passengers annually. This adaptability ensures that Bihta Air Force Station remains equipped to meet the region’s growing demands of air travel.

Key components of the project include the construction of an Apron capable of accommodating ten parking bays suitable for A-321/B-737-800/A-320-type aircraft and two link taxiways. These enhancements will streamline aircraft operations, enabling efficient movement and ensuring smooth takeoffs and landings.

The focus on accommodating specific aircraft types is aligned with the current fleets of most airlines. Bihta Air Force Station’s infrastructure will be well-suited to handle most commercial aircraft in operation today.

Economic Benefits of the New Integrated Terminal Building at Bihta Airport

The New Integrated Terminal Building at Bihta Airport represents a significant milestone in India’s efforts to enhance air connectivity and strengthen its defence capabilities. Through its strategic location, advanced facilities, and dedicated personnel, Bihta Air Force Station plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s borders and contributing to the region’s overall development.

The ambitious Bihta airport project has the potential to create numerous employment opportunities and lucrative business prospects. The project’s infrastructure requirements, encompassing the construction of the runway, terminals, and supporting facilities such as cargo handling, air traffic control, and passenger amenities, will present opportunities for businesses in various sectors.

One of the most significant beneficiaries will be the airlines. The increased demand for air travel in Bihta, where demand often exceeds supply, will necessitate the expansion of airline capacities and operations to and from the new airport. This will involve purchasing or leasing more aircraft, which presents opportunities for aircraft manufacturers, leasing companies, and financial institutions.

Given the absence of parking bays, hangars, workshops, refuelling facilities, and other essential infrastructure at airports like Patna, airlines will welcome these facilities at Bihta. Some airlines may even consider establishing maintenance bases at Bihta, as the costs would be significantly lower compared to metro airports like Delhi and Mumbai. This would benefit the airlines and create employment opportunities for skilled professionals in the aviation industry.

In addition to the airlines, numerous other businesses will benefit from the Bihta airport project. These include companies involved in construction, engineering, architecture, interior design, and landscaping to develop the airport’s infrastructure. Hospitality businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and cafes will also thrive due to the increased number of travellers and airport employees.

The project will boost the local economy as transportation, logistics, and tourism businesses flourish. The presence of an airport will make Bihta more accessible to both domestic and international travellers, thereby stimulating economic growth and development in the region.

Bihta Airport project is a significant investment that has the potential to transform the city into a central transportation hub and create a vibrant business environment, leading to a better quality of life for its residents.

Contractors and construction companies can capitalise on the need for infrastructure development. They can bid for civil works, architectural design, electrical and mechanical installations, and landscaping contracts. The project also requires heavy machinery and equipment, opening up opportunities for rental and leasing services.

Economic Opportunities and Business Potential

Furthermore, the airport’s operations will necessitate a range of support services, such as ground handling, catering, cleaning, security, and baggage handling. These services can be provided by specialised companies or local entrepreneurs, creating jobs and fostering economic growth in the region.

The airport’s connectivity will also attract logistics, warehousing, and distribution businesses. The proximity to air cargo facilities can make it easier for companies to import and export goods, leading to increased trade and investment.

The project will also significantly impact tourism. As the airport opens up new routes and makes travel more accessible, it will attract domestic and international tourists, benefiting local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and souvenir shops.

In addition to these direct opportunities, the airport project will indirectly benefit regional businesses. Improved infrastructure and connectivity can attract new industries and investments, leading to job creation and economic diversification.

Staying informed about project developments and tender processes is crucial for participating in these business opportunities. Networking with relevant stakeholders, such as government officials, contractors, and industry associations, can provide valuable insights and potential partnerships. Additionally, conducting thorough market research and developing a comprehensive business plan will increase your chances of success.

Bihta’s Infrastructure and Connectivity Enhancements

According to the Central Government’s approval, the NH-30 Patna-Buxar road passes by the Bihta International Airport. The elevated highway from Bihta to Danapur on that route has started. The Bihta-Sarmera road, also part of the 6-lane Patna Ring Road, is being constructed rapidly. Once completed, the improved road infrastructure will connect Bihta International Airport to major cities like Patna and Buxar and enhance connectivity within the region. This development is expected to boost economic growth and facilitate smoother transportation for commuters and goods.

Bihta has many government and non-government educational institutions, including IIT, NILET, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Private Medical College and Hospital, NIT, Footwear Designing Institute, Dry Port, and many industrial parks. The capital, Patna, is expanding rapidly from Danapur to Bihta and its adjoining areas. This expansion is expected to create new job opportunities and attract more businesses to the area, further stimulating economic growth. The improved transportation infrastructure will also make it easier for students to access these educational institutions and for workers to commute to and from their jobs.

Apart from this, the NH-30 Patna-Buxar, Bihta-Sarmera, Ramnagar-Kanhauli 6-lane road, construction of the bridge over the Ganga proposed at Sherpur will provide easy, smooth, and fast connectivity of Bihta Airport to other districts, including Arrah, Buxar, Saran, Siwan, Gopalganj, Arwal, Jehanabad, Aurangabad, Rohtas, and Nalanda. . This will reduce travel time and increase convenience.

The Economic Impact of the Bihta Airport Project

The Bihta airport project is a pivotal development that promises numerous opportunities for businesses to flourish and contribute to the region’s economy. However, as years pass, the estimated budget of Rs 14,130 million may increase to accommodate advancements and changes in the industry. As time progresses, the present officers of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) will retire, and the world’s order, demand, and supply dynamics will evolve.

Despite these uncertainties, the announcement of the Bihta Airport project on August 16, 2024, has had an immediate impact. Real estate prices in and around Bihta have skyrocketed, with millions of rupees changing hands based solely on the anticipation of the airport’s development. Even before the first civil flight took off from Bihta, the real estate market had responded enthusiastically.

Airlines that face challenges in maintaining break-even levels in their operations have recognised the potential of investing in real estate near upcoming airports. They have come to understand that investing in aircraft depreciates over time and requires additional funding, unlike real estate, which tends to appreciate and does not necessitate continuous financial upkeep.

Ironically, non-aviation entities often reap most of the benefits from aviation. In contrast, the primary aviation stakeholders, such as airlines, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers, manufacturers, and others, may be disadvantaged. This situation highlights the need for a balanced approach that recognises the contributions of all parties involved in the aviation industry.

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Also See: Top 25 Airports of India

Author: Naleen Chandra

Keen observer of International Affairs and Commentator

Aerospace Strategist, Corporate Advisor, Sanatan Economist, Entrepreneur, Author & Dharmic Indian

Working with a vision to make India the Vishva Guru. Through evolution in the field of technology and education and create a generation that is tech savvy.

He is the Chief executive Officer of TransBrahm.