SHILLONG : Baljek Airport in Tura is expected to resume operations in the second half of 2027 after the Meghalaya government decided to hand over the airport completely to the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma told the Assembly on Wednesday that a new memorandum of understanding with the AAI is expected to be signed in September, allowing the central airport authority to take over the airport’s management as well as its development.
The earlier agreement with the AAI was limited to management of the airport. Conrad said the change would allow the AAI to invest in the airport and carry out the required renovation, similar to its role at Shillong Airport.
“The renovation of the terminal building and runway is expected to take nine to 10 months. We are hopeful of starting operations between July and September next year, subject to there being no further hurdles,” the Chief Minister said.
The government plans to begin services with 19-seater Dornier aircraft operated by Alliance Air, with proposed connections to Kolkata and Shillong under the UDAN scheme. The issue came up during the Assembly session after Opposition members questioned the long delay in making Baljek operational.
AAI seeks additional 68 acres
Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Transport Sniawbhalang Dhar said the state currently has 211.13 acres at Baljek. The AAI, however, requires another 68 acres for the first phase, which is planned to accommodate 72-seater aircraft.
A joint inspection involving AAI officials and the state government will be conducted to determine the exact land requirement. Dhar said the exercise is intended to settle the land issue properly and avoid complications later.
Opposition questions airport’s condition
TMC MLA Miani D Shira and Leader of the Opposition Dr Mukul Sangma questioned the government over the prolonged delay and the condition of the airport. Mukul sought details on expenditure and the timeline, pointing out that the airport had been inaugurated by the President of India several years ago after technical assessments had already been carried out.
TMC MLA Rupa Marak raised concerns over the present condition of the facility. He alleged that the airport infrastructure had deteriorated and was being misused by anti-social elements, and urged the government to deploy security personnel to protect the property.
Dhar said the government had taken note of the suggestion and would look into immediate action.
