Purnia Airport Chunapur | UDAN Scheme Airport in Bihar | Opening Date, Flight Routes, Facilities, and Real Estate Impact
Air travel in Bihar is set for a major transformation with the launch of Purnia Airport, located in Chunapur, Purnia district. The airport, initially built by the Indian Air Force in the 1960s, is now being developed into a public airport under the UDAN scheme. This development is a joint initiative by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Central Government, aimed at improving regional connectivity across North Bihar and adjoining states.
The Central Government has approved Rs 40 crore for the project, while AAI has allocated Rs 33.99 crore specifically for the construction of a new terminal building. The airport is scheduled to be inaugurated on August 25, 2025, and commercial flight operations are expected to start from September 2025.
Main Details About Purnia Airport
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Purnia Airport & Chunapur Air Force Station |
| IATA Code | PUI |
| ICAO Code | VEPU |
| Location | Purnia, Bihar, India |
| Airport Type | Military / Public Airport |
| Operated By | Airports Authority of India & Indian Air Force |
| Area | 67.18 acres |
| Runway Length | 3,352 m (11,000 ft) |
| Number of Terminals | One (new terminal under construction) |
| Pin Code | 854303 |
| Expected Operational Date | 25th August 2025 |
| Status | Under Construction |
Background and Development - Purnia Airport
Purnia Airport in Bihar has a long history, dating back to its establishment as a defense airbase for the Indian Air Force. For decades, it played a crucial role in supporting military operations in Northeast India. Commercial flights briefly began in 2012 but were discontinued due to poor passenger traffic and limited infrastructure.
With the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, the government has revived the project to make Purnia an active public airport. A new civil enclave is being developed alongside the Air Force station to handle passenger flights.
New Terminal and Passenger Facilities - Purnia Airport
The upcoming new terminal building at Purnia Airport will be equipped with modern amenities, including five aerobridges to support smooth passenger boarding. Along with the main terminal, an Interim Terminal is also under construction to handle initial flight services until the main facility is completed.
Facilities to be Available at Purnia Airport
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Dedicated apron
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Cargo complex for logistics
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Aviation fuel farm
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Electric sub-station
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AC chiller plant
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Sewage Treatment Plant (STP)
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Water and fire tanks
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Administrative office
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VIP lounge
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Commercial plaza
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Passenger parking
These facilities will ensure that air travelers in Purnia, Bihar get modern airport services comparable to other developing regional airports in India.
Flight Routes and Airlines - Purnia Airport
According to officials, ticket booking from Purnia Airport will begin on August 26, 2025. The first airline to operate from the airport will be IndiGo Airlines, which has been allotted three initial routes. Although all destinations are not yet disclosed, reports confirm that Patna and Kolkata are part of the first phase of operations.
The launch of these routes will allow direct flights between Purnia and important eastern cities, eliminating the need for passengers to travel long distances to Bagdogra or Patna for air connectivity.
Regional Connectivity to Purnia Airport
Once operational, Purnia Airport will benefit at least 13 districts of Bihar, including Purnia, Katihar, Kishanganj, Araria, Madhepura, Supaul, and Saharsa. The airport will also improve air connectivity to Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Nepal, opening up new opportunities for trade, business travel, and tourism.
The Central and Bihar state governments are also focusing on road connectivity. The Dhamdaha–Purnia state highway is being upgraded into a four-lane road to provide direct access to the airport, ensuring smooth travel for passengers.
Impact on Real Estate and Economy
The launch of Purnia Airport in Bihar is expected to bring a significant rise in property values across the region. Localities such as Abdulla Nagar, Goasi, Bhatta Bazar, Belauri, and Gulabbagh are likely to experience increased demand for residential and commercial properties.
With air travel becoming more convenient, investors, builders, and real estate developers are expected to show strong interest in the Purnia region. The airport will not only increase housing demand but also attract commercial establishments, warehouses, and office spaces.
Tourism and hospitality will see strong growth as hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants come up to serve business and leisure travelers. This development will create new employment opportunities and drive economic growth in North Bihar.
Strategic Importance of Purnia Airport
The dual use of the airport as a military-civil facility makes it strategically significant. For decades, air travelers from northeast Bihar had to depend on distant airports such as Bagdogra (West Bengal) and Patna. The launch of Purnia Airport ensures faster connectivity and reduces dependency on road or rail travel for long distances.
This will also strengthen Bihar’s aviation network, positioning Purnia as an important hub for regional air travel.
How to Contact Purnia Airport
For inquiries about flights, bookings, or services at Purnia Airport, passengers can reach out to the Airports Authority of India (AAI):
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Visit the official AAI website: www.aai.aero
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Go to the ‘Contact Us’ section for details of regional offices.
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For immediate help, call the AAI Helpline: 011-24632950.
Conclusion on Purnia Airport
The upcoming launch of Purnia Airport in Bihar is a landmark project under the UDAN scheme, designed to improve air connectivity and promote economic development. Scheduled to be inaugurated on August 25, 2025, the airport will connect Purnia to Patna, Kolkata, and other destinations in the future.
With modern terminal facilities, enhanced road links, and a growing real estate market nearby, the airport will drive infrastructure growth, boost tourism, and generate jobs in the region.
The development of Purnia Airport highlights Bihar’s ongoing progress in aviation and infrastructure, making it a key hub for both passengers and businesses in the coming years.
