Agartala: May 26: In a significant step towards enhancing air connectivity in Tripura, the long-abandoned Kailashahar Airport in Unakoti district is set for revival after remaining non-functional for over three decades. On Monday, a high-level delegation from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) conducted an inspection of the airport and surrounding areas, officially beginning the re-operationalisation process.
The AAI delegation was led by M. Raja Kishore, Regional Executive Director (North Eastern Region), and Kailash Chander Meena, Airport Director of Agartala’s Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport. They were joined by Unakoti District Additional District Magistrate L. Darlong, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Pradip Sarkar, and other district officials.
The team carried out a preliminary survey of the airport’s existing infrastructure, checked visibility conditions, and assessed land availability and acquisition requirements. The inspection marks a key milestone in Tripura’s aviation sector, particularly for the northern region of the state.
Speaking to the media after the survey, M. Raja Kishore said, “We’ve completed our initial assessment. Detailed planning will follow in coordination with the state government to determine feasible services and aircraft types for this airport.”
Kailashahar Airport, given its strategic location, has long been seen as a potential hub for regional connectivity and emergency operations. Its reactivation could support both commercial aviation and defense operations, especially during emergencies.
The revival of the airport has been a persistent demand of political and civil society groups across undivided North Tripura and neighbouring Cachar district in Assam. Monday’s inspection has rekindled hope among residents for better connectivity and regional development.
While the timeline and final flight operations are yet to be confirmed, the initiation of the inspection process is a strong signal that Tripura’s aviation landscape may soon see a transformative change.
