SHILLONG: Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar announced on Monday that the long-awaited expansion of Shillong Airport is poised to commence shortly, with the aim of enabling larger aircraft to land by next year. Speaking to reporters, Dhar revealed that the Airport Authority of India (AAI) has issued a tender for the project, expressing optimism that significant flights will be operational by 2026.
The Meghalaya Deputy CM confirmed that there have been no reported difficulties in the process, stating, “The tender has been floated, and work will start soon.” He added that the land acquisition process is nearing completion, with compensation payments set to be released shortly. “Everything is in order, and that is why AAI is able to float the tender,” he noted.
The tender, issued on April 5, marks a significant step forward in the expansion efforts, which are part of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s commitment to improving air connectivity in the region. The expansion project entails a 571-meter extension of the existing runway, increasing its total length to 2,400 meters, to facilitate the operation of A-320 type aircraft. The project further entails terminal building modernization and upgrading of related infrastructure.
The estimated cost of the expansion is Rs 119.44 crore and a projected period of completion of 18 months including a three-month monsoon deferment buffer. The project would be the keystone to the growth of Meghalaya's investment and tourism base, which would make the state one of India's leading destinations.
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