Darbhanga Airport, with its IATA code DBR and ICAO code VEDH, is making waves as a vital domestic airport and an Indian Air Force Station in Bihar, India. Situated on the outskirts of the city, near the NH-105 and NH-57 highways, this airport has been a game-changer for the region’s connectivity.
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Operated by AAI
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) operates Darbhanga Airport. The airport’s foundation stone was laid on December 24, 2018, by then Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar, and the Civil Aviation Minister, Suresh Prabhu, in the presence of State Civil Aviation Minister, Jayant Sinha.
Commercial flights took off from Darbhanga Airport on November 8, 2020, thanks to the dedicated efforts of MP Gopal Jee Thakur and the then Civil Aviation Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri.
History
Darbhanga Airport has a unique history. It was initially established by Maharaja Kameshwar Singh Bahadur of Darbhanga, who initiated his private airline.
In 1950, Darbhanga Aviation, a private aviation company, took flight, but it ceased operations in 1962. During the Indo-China War of 1962, the Indian Air Force acquired the airport.
Modernization and Expansion
The Airport Authority of India has invested significantly in upgrading Darbhanga Airport. An Interim Terminal Building, a taxi track, and an apron area were constructed.
The runway was reinforced to accommodate larger aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. Additionally, a prefabricated building was erected to serve as a temporary terminal. The government allocated around ₹100 crores for these projects.
On February 16, 2021, one of the aprons became operational, capable of accommodating two B737-800/A320 aircraft simultaneously, easing landing procedures.
The terminal boasts six check-in counters and a capacity to handle 200 passengers during peak hours. The car parking facility accommodates up to 30 cars.
UDAN Scheme
In January 2018, SpiceJet was chosen to operate flights from Darbhanga to Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai under the Government’s Regional Connectivity Scheme, known as UDAN.
This initiative has significantly improved regional connectivity, making air travel more accessible to residents of Darbhanga and neighboring areas.
Ambitious Future Plans
The Government of Bihar has acquired an additional 78 acres of land, transferring it to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). This move has initiated the Detailed Project Report (DPR) process for further expansion of the passenger terminal.
The ambitious expansion plan includes a new passenger terminal, a new Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower, cargo facilities, and more, close to NH-27. There is also a proposal to name the airport Mahakavi Kokil Vidyapati Airport, in honor of the famous Maithili poet, Vidyapati.
As of March 2023, Bihar’s government has acquired 24 acres of land for runway expansion and another 54 acres for a new permanent terminal. Additionally, 24 acres have been earmarked for the installation of an Instrument Landing System (ILS) to facilitate night landings, with completion expected by mid-2023.
Land acquisition for the expansion of Darbhanga Airport has been successfully completed. A total of 78 acres has been acquired for the construction of a civil enclave, runway expansion, and the installation of night landing facilities at the airport.
The state government has transferred this land to the Airport Authority of India (AAI), marking a crucial step in the airport’s growth. The acquisition project came at a cost of over Rs 342.4 crores.
Transformation
Darbhanga Airport is all set to undergo a remarkable transformation, giving it a brand-new look. The airport, located in the state of Bihar, has witnessed substantial progress under the leadership of the Modi government. This transformation is part of a broader initiative to enhance connectivity and infrastructure in the region.
Key Milestones:
- Night Landing of Planes: The airport has successfully commenced night landing operations, a significant milestone that enhances its capabilities and paves the way for 24/7 accessibility.
- Renovation Work to Begin in January: A comprehensive renovation plan is in the pipeline, scheduled to commence in January. The expansion will cover a sprawling 54 acres, focusing on modernizing the terminal building and overall infrastructure.
- Completion Expected by April 2024: The authorities are committed to ensuring that all renovation works are completed by April 2024, delivering a state-of-the-art airport to the people of Darbhanga and the surrounding region.
- Increased Capacity: With these developments, the annual capacity of Darbhanga Airport is anticipated to surge to 42.5 lakh passengers. This is a significant boost for Bihar, as the state continues to make strides in air travel accessibility.
Aviation Future
Darbhanga Airport is on a trajectory toward becoming a key aviation hub in Bihar. With ongoing expansion and modernization efforts, the airport promises enhanced connectivity and improved services for the people of Darbhanga and the entire region. It’s not just an airport; it’s a symbol of progress and development.
Economic Impact
The expansion of Darbhanga Airport has brought with it numerous economic opportunities for the region. The enhanced connectivity is attracting new businesses and industries, contributing to job creation and economic growth.
Moreover, the airport has boosted the local tourism sector, as travelers now have easier access to Bihar’s cultural and historical treasures.
Regional Transport Hub
Darbhanga Airport’s strategic location on the crossroads of NH-105 and NH-57 has turned it into a key transport hub, serving not only the city but also nearby regions. This has alleviated the burden on neighboring airports and has allowed people from far-flung areas of Bihar to have seamless access to air travel.
Environmental Considerations
As Darbhanga Airport expands, environmental sustainability remains a priority. The authorities are taking measures to ensure that the expansion is carried out with minimal impact on the environment. This includes initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly practices.
The government and airport authorities have been working closely with the community to ensure that the airport’s growth benefits everyone. Initiatives for skill development, education, and healthcare have been undertaken to enhance the overall quality of life in the region.
In conclusion, Darbhanga Airport is not just an airport; it is a symbol of progress and development for the entire region. With continued expansion and modernization, it is poised to become a major player in Bihar’s aviation landscape, offering improved connectivity, economic growth, and a brighter future for the people of Darbhanga and beyond.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) based on Darbhanga Airport:
Q: What is the official name and location of Darbhanga Airport?
A: The official name of the airport is Darbhanga Airport (DBR), located just a short distance from the Delhi Mod bus stand in Darbhanga, Bihar.
Q: Are there plans to change the name of Darbhanga Airport?
A: Yes, the Bihar government has proposed changing the name to Vidyapati Airport, in honor of the famous Maithili poet Vidyapati.
Q: How many airlines operate at Darbhanga Airport?
A: Currently, two airlines operate at Darbhanga Airport: IndiGo and SpiceJet.
Q: Where do IndiGo flights from Darbhanga Airport depart?
A: IndiGo flights from Darbhanga Airport go to Kolkata, Delhi, and Hyderabad.
Q: Where do SpiceJet flights from Darbhanga Airport fly to?
A: SpiceJet flights from Darbhanga Airport go to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
Q: How many flights depart and arrive at Darbhanga Airport daily?
A: Approximately 8-10 flights depart and arrive at Darbhanga Airport each day.
Q: How long is the runway at Darbhanga Airport, and how does it compare to other airports in Bihar?
A: Darbhanga Airport has one runway that is approximately 10,000 feet long, making it one of the longest runways among airports in Bihar.
Q: How far is Darbhanga Airport from the main city of Darbhanga?
A: Darbhanga Airport is located approximately 6-7 kilometers from the main city of Darbhanga.
Q: When was Darbhanga Airport inaugurated, and when did commercial flights begin?
A: Darbhanga Airport was inaugurated in 2018, and commercial flights began in 2020.
Q: Who owns and operates Darbhanga Airport?
A: Darbhanga Airport is owned by the Indian Air Force and operated by the Airport Authority of India (AAI).
Q: How old is Darbhanga Airport?
A: Darbhanga Airport is relatively new, as it was commissioned for civilian flights under the Regional Connectivity Scheme in 2020.
Q: How many active airports are there in Bihar?
A: There are two major active airports in Bihar: Jaiprakash Narayan International Airport in Patna and Gaya International Airport in Bodh Gaya.
Q: What facilities are available at Darbhanga Airport?
A: The airport offers various facilities, including wheelchair services, advanced baggage handling, ATM machines, medical facilities, a lost and found counter, and a taxi booking counter.
Q: What is the UDAN Scheme, and how does it relate to Darbhanga Airport?
A: The UDAN Scheme is a government initiative to enhance regional connectivity. In January 2018, SpiceJet was selected to operate flights from Darbhanga to Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai under this scheme, making air travel more accessible to the region.
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