Pantnagar Airport to Get Major Upgrade with 3,000-Metre Runway and Modern Terminal.

Pantnagar airport, spread over 793 acres in the Terai region of Kumaon, is set for a major expansion to transform it into a modern aviation facility, officials said.

Currently, the airport has a runway of around 1,340 metres, limiting operations to smaller aircraft. Under the upgrade plan, the existing runway will be replaced with a 3,000-metre-long and 45-metre-wide runway, allowing larger passenger planes, including Boeing and Airbus aircraft, to operate. The expansion is expected to enhance air connectivity between Kumaon and major cities across India.

The first phase includes the construction of a new terminal building at an estimated cost of ₹387 crore. Spread over 8,500 sq. m, the terminal will handle 475 passengers at a time and over one million passengers annually. Facilities will include two aerobridges, escalators, elevators, automated parking, food courts, retail outlets, and car rental services

Officials said the improved connectivity will boost tourism in hill districts such as Nainital, Almora, Pithoragarh, and Champawat, while benefiting industries in SIDCUL, the agricultural university, and other industrial units in the Terai region.

For the first time, cargo services will also be introduced at Pantnagar airport, enabling faster transport of agricultural produce, industrial goods, and local products to major markets. This is expected to benefit farmers and small entrepreneurs, particularly those involved in coarse-grain cultivation and hill produce.

The airport’s apron capacity is also being expanded. Currently able to park two aircraft at a time, the upgraded facility will accommodate up to five aircraft simultaneously, increasing flight operations.

“Pantnagar airport serves as the main air gateway to Kumaon. Its expansion will improve connectivity and support economic activity in the region,” said Pawan Kumar, director of Pantnagar airport. He added that work is underway to strengthen security and infrastructure with support from the state government.