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Umroi Airport, also called Shillong Airport or Barapani Airport, is the main air travel hub for the capital city of Meghalaya. Located around 30 kilometres from Shillong city centre, the airport lies in Umroi, Ri Bhoi district, surrounded by lush hills and greenery. It plays a vital role in connecting Meghalaya with other parts of India, especially with major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati.

Spread over nearly 461.73 acres of land, Umroi Airport is managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). It operates a single domestic terminal that can handle around 100 passengers at a time, including arrivals and departures. Despite being small, this airport serves as a critical lifeline for Meghalaya’s tourism, economy, and infrastructure.

Overview of Shillong Airport

History and Background of Umroi Airport

Umroi Airport was originally built during the 1960s, but regular flight operations started only in the 1970s. For many years, the airport had limited facilities and smaller aircraft operations. Things began to change in 2009 when the government sanctioned 224 acres of land for expanding the airport. Construction began in June 2009 and was completed by May 2010. A year later, in June 2011, a brand-new terminal building was inaugurated, improving passenger handling capacity.

Further development took place between 2015 and 2017, when AAI added more land and upgraded airport systems. Improvements included refueling facilities, a better landing system, and runway strengthening to accommodate larger aircraft. In 2019, the airport achieved a Category 3C licence, enabling operations for ATR 72 and Bombardier Q400 aircraft. Soon after, IndiGo Airlines began regular flights under the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme, linking Shillong with key destinations across India.

Shillong Airport Facilities and Passenger Amenities

Even though Umroi Airport is relatively small, it provides a wide range of facilities for passenger comfort. Travellers can enjoy food options, shopping counters, and basic services for a convenient travel experience.

Facilities at Shillong Airport:

• Free luggage trolleys

• Wheelchair and elderly assistance

• Childcare room

• Lost and Found baggage service

• Cafeteria and snack outlets

• Duty-free shop

• Taxi and bus counters

• Souvenir and local handicraft shops

These services ensure smooth and comfortable travel for passengers arriving in or departing from Shillong.

Airlines, Routes, and Connectivity - Shillong Airport

Shillong Airport primarily handles domestic flights, connecting Meghalaya to major Indian cities such as Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, Imphal, Aizawl, and Dimapur. Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Alliance Air operate regular services from here.

Kolkata is the most frequently connected city, accounting for more than half of the total weekly departures. As expansion continues, Shillong Airport is expected to handle more domestic flights and potentially future international connections.

Shillong Airport Expansion Project

The Shillong Airport expansion project is one of the most significant infrastructure developments in Meghalaya. The project aims to extend the runway and expand the terminal to handle more passengers and larger aircraft.

Once completed, Shillong Airport will be capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft. This means direct flights from major metros such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad could become possible in the coming years.

Economic and Tourism Impact of the Airport Upgrade

The expansion of Umroi Airport will have a major impact on Meghalaya’s tourism and economy. For many years, visitors to Shillong had to land at Guwahati Airport and then take a long road trip to reach the city. With the new expansion, direct flights to Shillong will save hours of travel time.

This improvement will boost tourism by attracting more domestic and international travellers who wish to explore Meghalaya’s famous spots like:

• The living root bridges of Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong

• The Umiam Lake (Barapani)

• The Shillong Peak

• The Mawsynram rain village

Hotels, homestays, restaurants, and transport services across the state are expected to witness significant growth. The airport upgrade also aligns with the Government of India’s regional connectivity goals under the UDAN scheme, enhancing Northeast India's accessibility.

How to Reach Shillong Airport

Reaching Umroi Airport is easy and convenient by road. Travellers can take a private car, taxi, or bus from the city centre. The airport is located around 20 to 30 kilometres from Shillong, and travel time usually varies between 50 and 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

For train travellers, the nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, located about 90 km away. The road journey from Guwahati to Umroi Airport takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes via NH6.

Hotels and Resorts Near Umroi Airport

Several comfortable hotels and resorts are located within a short distance of the airport. These properties are perfect for tourists, business travellers, and transit passengers looking for a pleasant stay near Shillong Airport.

These resorts are easily accessible and ideal for both short weekend trips and long vacations. Most offer scenic views of the Meghalaya hills and peaceful surroundings.

Tourist Attractions Near Shillong Airport

Travellers who arrive early or have a few hours before their flight can visit nearby attractions that capture the beauty of Meghalaya.

• Dwar Ksuid – about 4.3 km from the airport

• Umroi View Point – approximately 5.4 km away

• Umiam Lake (Barapani) – around 15 km away

• Don Bosco Museum and Ward’s Lake – within 30 km in Shillong city

These spots are perfect for photography, sightseeing, and a taste of Meghalaya’s natural splendour.

Shillong Airport Contact Information

Passengers can reach out to these official contacts for flight schedules, lost baggage inquiries, or general information about airport operations.

Conclusion - Shillong Airport

The Umroi Airport in Shillong is steadily transforming into one of Northeast India’s most promising regional airports. The ongoing Shillong Airport expansion project will improve passenger capacity, runway strength, and overall travel efficiency. Once completed, it will allow larger aircraft to land, boosting tourism and economic opportunities throughout Meghalaya.