KKN Gurugram Desk | Patna Airport, officially known as Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport (IATA: PAT), has undergone significant transformations since its establishment in 1973. Named after the esteemed freedom fighter Jayaprakash Narayan, the airport has evolved to meet the growing demands of air travel in Bihar.

Historical Overview

Established in 1973, Patna Airport initially catered to a limited number of domestic flights. Over the decades, as Bihar’s economic and tourism sectors expanded, the demand for air travel surged, leading to increased passenger traffic and necessitating infrastructural upgrades.

Challenges Leading to Modernization

The airport faced several challenges:

• Runway Limitations: The existing runway, measuring 2,072 meters, restricted the operation of larger aircraft.

• Terminal Capacity: The terminal’s capacity was insufficient to handle the increasing passenger volume, leading to congestion.

• Safety Concerns: Proximity to the Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan and the Phulwari Sharif railway station posed safety risks and limited expansion possibilities.

Inauguration of the New Terminal

On May 29, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new terminal building at Patna Airport. Constructed at a cost of ₹1,200 crore, the terminal spans 65,150 square meters and is equipped to handle up to 10 million passengers annually.

Features of the New Terminal

• Design Inspiration: The terminal’s architecture draws from the region’s landscape and Mithila art.

• Passenger Amenities: Modern facilities include 64 check-in counters, five passenger boarding bridges, and advanced security systems.

• Sustainability: The terminal incorporates energy-efficient systems, such as insulated roofing and LED lighting, to maintain a comfortable environment.

Development of Bihta Civil Enclave

To further alleviate congestion and accommodate larger aircraft, a new civil enclave is being developed at Bihta, approximately 27 km west of Patna. The project, estimated at ₹1,410 crore, will feature a terminal spanning 68,000 square meters, capable of handling 5 million passengers annually.

The modernization of Patna Airport and the development of the Bihta Civil Enclave are poised to significantly enhance air connectivity in Bihar. These projects aim to boost tourism, facilitate trade, and attract investments, contributing to the state’s overall economic growth.