Patna: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has floated a tender for upgrading the existing airport at Saharsa, marking another step towards strengthening regional air connectivity in Bihar. The project aims to enable operations of Code-2B category aircraft — small planes typically carrying 19–20 passengers and suited for short-haul regional flights, including tourism and other services.As part of the project, a prefabricated steel terminal building, a pre-engineered air traffic control (ATC) tower, a fire station and other allied facilities will be constructed on an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) basis. The EPC model is expected to ensure faster execution and durable infrastructure tailored to small aircraft operations.The estimated cost of the project is Rs 35.14 crore, covering essential civil works for buildings. Located in Saharsa district, the initiative is part of the state’s broader push to revive and upgrade dormant or underdeveloped airstrips.Following a memorandum of understanding signed between the Bihar govt and AAI in 2025, work is underway on several regional airports to improve connectivity, boost tourism and support economic activity in underserved areas.Once operational, the upgraded facility is expected to improve connectivity for local residents and aid regional growth. The tender, classified under civil works (buildings), specifies a completion period of 450 days from the award of the contract.Similar Code-2B upgrade projects are also underway in districts such as Birpur, Muzaffarpur and Valmiki Nagar, where tenders have already been issued.
