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GUWAHATI, July 10: India’s Assam government has unveiled plans to develop an aviation hub aimed at strengthening air connectivity with neighbouring Bangladesh and Bhutan as part of a broader push to expand the state’s aviation infrastructure.
Presenting the Assam Budget for 2026-27 in the state Assembly on Friday, Finance Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah said the proposed expansion of Rupsi Airport in western Assam is expected to transform it into a key regional aviation hub linking Lower Assam with Bangladesh, Bhutan, West Bengal and Meghalaya.
The airport will be expanded in phases under a revised master plan. In the first phase, infrastructure will be upgraded to support all-weather operations of ATR-72 aircraft, while the second phase will enable Airbus A320 operations, significantly increasing the airport’s capacity.
Baruah said the expanded airport would improve regional connectivity, facilitate cross-border trade, promote tourism and create new economic opportunities.
The minister also announced progress on the proposed Rs 2,134-crore Greenfield Airport at Doloo in Silchar, which is being developed in partnership with the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
He said the project is currently under consideration by the Public Investment Board (PIB), adding that the Assam government is extending all necessary support to ensure construction begins as early as possible.
“The government, in partnership with the Airports Authority of India, is taking forward the Greenfield Airport at Doloo, Silchar. We are extending all support for its early commencement,” Baruah told the Assembly.
