Aimed at future expansion and to streamline development, Airport Authority of India has finalised Bhopal airport’s masterplan to be implemented in three stages — Phase1, Phase 2 and Ultimate Capacity — by 2047.
To achieve the airport’s ultimate capacity, runway is set to be extended to a length of 4000 m. The extension will necessitate acquisition of approximately 65 acre of additional land. The authority concerned has already sought state govt approval for acquisition of the land. The expansion is crucial to accommodate projected growth in air traffic and to ensure the airport can meet the demands of the future.
“The masterplan has been carefully crafted to address the long-term requirements of Bhopal airport. It takes into account the expected increase in passenger and cargo traffic as well as the need for improved infrastructure and facilities. The three-phase approach allows for a systematic and efficient implementation of development projects,” said airport director Ramjee Awasthi.
In Phase 1, the focus will be on enhancing existing infrastructure, and facilities to cater to the immediate needs of the airport. It may include expansion of the terminal building, construction of new parking areas, and upgrading of the air traffic control systems. These improvements will help to streamline operations and provide a better experience for passengers.
The construction work at the Noida International Airport is going on in full swing and commercial operations are set to commence from here by April 2025. A runway measuring 3.9 km in length and 60 metres in width is ready, and the airport terminal building is also in the final stages.
Phase 2 will involve more significant changes to the airport layout and infrastructure. This may include the construction of new taxiways, aprons, and hangars to accommodate the growing number of aircraft. The terminal building may also be further expanded to handle the increased passenger traffic. These developments will help to position the Bhopal airport as a key hub in the region.The last phase —Ultimate Capacity — set to be achieved by 2047, will see the airport reach its full potential. The extension of the runway to 4000 m is a critical component of this phase. The longer runway will allow larger aircraft to operate from the airport, opening up new routes and destinations. It will also enable the airport to handle more flights, both domestic and international.
The expansion of airport is expected to bring economic benefits such as increased tourism and trade. It is crucial to ensure that the development is sustainable and does not adversely affect the environment or the lives of those living nearby. The finalisation of the masterplan 2047 is a significant milestone in the development of the Bhopal airport.
The three-phase approach, culminating in the extension of the runway to 4000m, will enable the airport to meet the growing demands of air traffic in the region.
