Pantnagar Airport's 3,000m Runway Will Unlock Major Boeing and Airbus Operations

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is driving a significant upgrade at Pantnagar Airport (PGH) in Uttarakhand. This expansion aims to transform the facility into a major aviation hub. The project is focused on enhancing air connectivity for the entire Kumaon region.

This development will allow much larger aircraft to operate from Pantnagar. The ultimate goal is to upgrade the airport to international standards.

Airside Infrastructure Overhaul

The most critical part of the project is the runway extension. The existing runway, currently around 1,340 meters long, will be replaced.

Key Airside Details

• Runway Length: The new runway will measure 3,000 meters long and 45 meters wide.
• Aircraft Capability: This length will allow operations for larger passenger aircraft. These include Boeing and Airbus models.
• Apron Capacity: The apron will expand to accommodate five aircraft simultaneously. This is a significant increase from the current two-aircraft capacity.
• Technical Goal: The runway extension is designed to cater to Code 4C type aircraft.

This airside work also includes strengthening the runway and taxiways. It also involves new isolation bays and perimeter roads.

New Terminal and Passenger Capacity

The first phase of the expansion includes a new terminal building. This facility is estimated to cost Rs 387 crore.

The new terminal will cover 8,500 square meters. It is designed to handle 475 passengers at peak hours. Annually, the terminal capacity will exceed one million passengers.

Modern passenger amenities are planned for the new facility. These include two aerobridges, escalators, and automated parking.

Economic and Regional Impact

The upgrade is poised to significantly benefit the economy of Uttarakhand. Improved air access will support tourism in the hill districts. Key areas include Nainital, Almora, and Pithoragarh.

Industrial and Cargo Opportunities

The expansion will also boost industrial units in the Terai region, including SIDCUL.

• New Cargo Services: Pantnagar Airport will introduce dedicated cargo services. This is a first for the region.
• Logistics Benefit: This will facilitate faster transport of agricultural goods and industrial products.

To make way for the new infrastructure, the project requires land acquisition and highway realignment. The Uttarakhand State Government transferred over 524 acres to the AAI.

Furthermore, a 7-kilometer section of the National Highway (NH-109/NH-74) must be relocated. This is necessary to accommodate the expanded airport boundaries.

The Airports Authority of India is overseeing the detailed design and construction. The overall development includes cityside and airside works. This will ensure a complete transformation of the aviation facility.

Get breaking commercial aviation news and expert airline analysis at flying.flights. Track policy changes, airspace rules, and global aviation governance in the Regulatory category at flying.flights/regulatory.