Tezpur Airport To Completely Shut Flight Operations For 1.5 Years; Here’s All You Need To Know

Tezpur, Assam, is preparing for a significant disruption in its air travel options. The Tezpur airport, a key transportation hub for the region, will undergo a major maintenance overhaul, leading to a complete suspension of flight operations for 18 months. This closure, scheduled to commence on October 1, 2024, and conclude on March 31, 2026, has raised concerns amongst travellers, prompting questions behind such a lengthy shutdown.

Tezpur Airport To Shut Flight Operations For 1.5 Years

The primary driver for this extended closure lies in the critical need for runway resurfacing. Over time, runways naturally wear down due to constant use by both commercial aircraft and military jets. The Tezpur airport shares its runway with the Tezpur Base of the Indian Air Force. It caters to both passenger flights and fighter jet operations. This shared usage necessitates a more comprehensive resurfacing project to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of the runway for all types of aircraft.

However, the improvements don’t stop at the runway. The closure also presents an opportunity to enhance the passenger experience by upgrading the terminal facilities at the Tezpur airport. This could encompass a range of improvements, such as expanded check-in areas, improved baggage handling systems, and the renovation of passenger waiting areas. Upgrading amenities like restrooms and concession stands could also be part of the plan. This is aimed at creating a more comfortable and streamlined travel experience for passengers upon the airport’s reopening.

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Potential Solutions To Minimise Disruption

The Tezpur Air Force Base played a proactive role in initiating this project. Recognising the need for maintenance and the potential impact on civilian air traffic, they communicated the situation well in advance to the Tezpur Salonibari Passenger Airport Authority. This collaborative approach ensures a smooth transition and allows airlines and passengers ample time to make necessary adjustments.

While the closure presents a temporary hurdle for travellers, authorities are exploring potential solutions to minimise disruption. The possibility of introducing helicopter services between Tezpur and Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, is being actively considered. While a final decision is yet to be made, such a service could offer a crucial connection for those requiring urgent air travel during the shutdown period.

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Though details of potential helicopter services are still being finalised, authorities are actively exploring ways to mitigate the disruption caused by the closure.

Cover Image Courtesy:@aaitezairport/X (Formerly, Twitter)