MoU signed for major expansion of Gorakhpur Airport
Gorakhpur: In a major boost to air connectivity in eastern Uttar Pradesh region, a new terminal building will soon be constructed at the Gorakhpur Airport.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the same was signed between the Indian Air Force, Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the Gorakhpur district administration on Tuesday.
The MoU paves the way for the transfer of 42 acres of land from the Air Force for the new terminal.
The airport currently operates over two dozen flights to major Indian cities. With the rising passenger footfall, the need for a bigger and better terminal has long been felt. Acting on the directions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the MoU was finalised to facilitate the long-awaited expansion. The agreement was signed by district magistrate Krishna Karunesh, AOC Prashant Singh of the Air Force, and airport director R K Parashar.
The new terminal will significantly enhance the airport infrastructure, enabling parking space for up to 10 aircraft simultaneously and accommodating around 1,400 cars. Once completed, the upgraded facility will be capable of handling around 200 flights daily, a massive leap from the current 26. Passenger handling capacity will rise from 270 to 2,500 per hour.
The land, currently under the Military Engineering Services, is adjacent to the existing airport. The present infrastructure on the land will be relocated to make way for the new construction. Connectivity enhancements like a roundabout from Nandanagar, an underpass, and four-lane road access are also on the cards.
The airport director noted that delays due to apron congestion will soon be a thing of the past. "With dedicated space for 10 aircraft, operations will be smoother and flight turnaround will be faster," he said.
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