Agartala Airport ready for international operations, passenger traffic nearly doubles in 12 years
Agartala, June 14
Airport Director Kishan Mohan Nehra said that Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala is fully equipped and prepared to handle international flight operations, highlighting the airport's rapid growth and expanding infrastructure.
Addressing a press conference, Nehra stated that the airport, which has emerged as one of the key aviation hubs in Northeast India, has significantly upgraded its facilities to meet increasing passenger demand and future expansion requirements, including the possibility of international air connectivity.
He noted that annual passenger traffic at the airport has nearly doubled over the past 12 years, rising from 8.09 lakh passengers in 2014-15 to around 15 lakh passengers in the 2025-26 financial year. Aircraft movements have also witnessed substantial growth, increasing from nearly 7,000 flights in 2014-15 to approximately 12,000 flights in 2025-26.
"At present, MBB Airport handles around 34 flight movements every day," Nehra said.
The Airport Director also announced the introduction of a new cargo service, aimed at strengthening air logistics and boosting economic activity in the region.
Currently, Agartala enjoys direct flight connectivity with major Indian cities, including Kolkata, Guwahati, Delhi, Bengaluru, Imphal, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Chennai. Recently, IndiGo launched direct services between Agartala and Jaipur, further expanding the city's air network.
Nehra revealed that discussions are underway to introduce a direct flight service between Agartala and Mumbai, which is expected to enhance connectivity between the Northeast and western India.
On the proposed revival of Kailashahar Airport, he said the facility holds strategic importance for the region. To facilitate its reopening, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has requested the Tripura government to provide 205 acres of land.
Highlighting the airport's modern passenger-centric infrastructure, Nehra said MBB Airport now offers several advanced amenities, including the DigiYatra system for seamless entry, four baggage conveyor belts for faster luggage delivery, affordable food and drinking water facilities, free Wi-Fi, baby care rooms, complimentary sanitary napkins and mobile charging stations.
Meanwhile, as part of the nationwide celebrations marking 12 years of the NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, MBB Airport will observe 'Yatri Suvidha Diwas' on June 15 along with airports across the country.
Airport authorities have planned a series of passenger-focused activities, including traditional tilak ceremonies to welcome travellers, special honours for senior citizens and elderly passengers, cultural programmes showcasing local folk music and dance, and a blood donation camp.
Senior officials of the Airports Authority of India were also present at the press conference.
The developments underline the growing importance of Agartala's MBB Airport as a major gateway to the Northeast, with enhanced connectivity, modern infrastructure and readiness for future international operations.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good to see development but can we stop making everything a 'Modi government celebration'? Airport expansion is fine, but this constant politicization of infrastructure is tiring. Just let the airport do its job without the 'Yatri Suvidha Diwas' fanfare.
International operations from Agartala will be a game-changer for the Northeast! Imagine direct flights to Dhaka, Bangkok, or even Singapore from here - it could boost tourism and trade like anything. The cargo service announcement is also welcome, our local fruits and handicrafts need better logistics to reach markets.
As a frequent flyer from Agartala, I'm happy with the new amenities. Last month I used the DigiYatra system and it was smooth. But please fix the parking situation - it's a nightmare during peak hours. Also, the free Wi-Fi is a boon for students like me who travel for exams.
This is excellent progress. Agartala airport's transformation reminds me of how regional airports in India are growing. The 34 daily flights figure shows it's becoming a real hub. I visited Agartala last year and found the airport much better than many bigger city airports. Kudos to the team.
Happy to see Kailashahar airport revival getting attention too. The Northeast needs more such connectivity to reduce travel time. Currently, it takes ages to go from one town to another by road. Airports like this will transform the region's economy and bring people closer. 👍
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