India’s aviation sector is witnessing a significant upgrade with the completion of several major airport infrastructure projects. Among the most anticipated is the new terminal at Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna, which is expected to open for the public use in early June 2025.
The new terminal spans 65,155 sq m across three stories and is designed to increase the airport’s annual passenger capacity from 3 million to 10 million. Equipped with 64 check-in counters, 13 boarding gates, and state-of-the-art security systems, the terminal adheres to 4-star GRIHA environmental standards, reflecting India’s push towards green infrastructure. The energy-efficient design is aligned with sustainable practices promoted by the GRIHA Council.
The terminal will showcase Bihar’s rich cultural heritage through the incorporation of traditional Madhubani paintings, a central green courtyard, and murals featuring revered figures such as Gautam Buddha and Mahavira, along with depictions of the Bodhi tree and scenes from ancient Indian civilisation.
A dedicated tribute area will honour the legacy of renowned political leader Jayaprakash Narayan, after whom the airport is named. Additionally, artistic panels will illustrate iconic local traditions such as Chhath Puja and the Patna Sahib Gurudwara.
The new terminal will connect directly to the upper level of the newly built Multi-Level Car Park (MLCP), which can accommodate up to 750 vehicles during peak hours. A pedestrian bridge will provide seamless access for passengers from the parking facility to the departure area, with the top floor of the MLCP designated for commercial use.
On the airside, a 1,389-metre parallel taxi track completed in 2022 at a cost of Rs 22 crore is expected to streamline aircraft movement between the runway and the apron, significantly reducing waiting times. Currently, arriving aircraft must backtrack on the runway, often causing delays. However, the new taxi track has yet to be commissioned.
Additionally, a 12-acre isolation bay has been developed to serve as a designated emergency parking zone. This facility is intended for aircraft facing critical situations such as hijacks, bomb threats, or technical malfunctions.
“According to Patna Airport General Manager, as confirmed to SSMB on May 26, 2025, the terminal will be inaugurated on May 29, 2025, with operations commencing a few days later.”
This development forms part of a broader national vision under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, which aims to construct or upgrade 50 airports over the next five years. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) continues to lead the expansion strategy, focusing on improving connectivity and meeting rising passenger demand.
