Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: Imphal International Airport, which is observing Yatri Suvidha Diwas on June 15, has recorded significant growth in aircraft movements and passenger traffic over the past few years. The surge has been attributed in part to restricted vehicular movement on National Highways in Manipur following the ethnic violence that began on May 3, 2023.
Despite rising airfares, the airport now handles over 16 scheduled arrivals and departures daily, serving around 3,000 passengers every day. With this growth, Imphal is emerging as the second-busiest airport in the North-East Region after Guwahati. It is also among the few airports in the region equipped with radar surveillance.
This marks a major rise compared to 2014, when the airport managed only about four arrivals and four departures daily, with fewer than 500 passengers using the facility each day.
To meet increasing demand, work on a large New Integrated Terminal Building (NITB) on the eastern side of the airport is progressing steadily. Covering around 22,000 square metres, the terminal has reached nearly 50% completion.
The facility is being developed in line with GRIHA 5-Star Green Building standards and will include four modern aerobridges, separate domestic and international arrival and departure zones, and architecture inspired by the cultural heritage of Manipur. It will also provide parking space for around 1,000 cars and 15 buses.
Manipur Additional Chief Secretary (Transport & TCI) Anurag Bajpai stated that efforts are underway to complete the project by the December 31, 2026 deadline, though timely completion will depend on smooth logistical and transportation support.
Alongside passenger expansion, the airport is strengthening its cargo and commercial infrastructure. A dedicated Cargo Terminal has been completed and is expected to become operational soon. Currently, only limited outbound cargo services are available, but full operations are expected to significantly boost trade activity across Manipur. A newly built helipad is also ready for commissioning.
In addition, passenger facilities have been upgraded to improve the travel experience. The Security Hold Area has been expanded to accommodate around 450 passengers, nearly doubling its earlier capacity. The number of check-in counters has increased to 18.
New amenities include a Kid Zone, Smoking Zone, Child Care Room, MIHY Facility, Flybrary, free Wi-Fi, improved accessibility features for differently abled passengers and AVSAR initiatives promoting local artisans. The airport also now offers workstations, charging points, expanded seating, enhanced greenery, and upgraded artistic installations throughout the terminal.