In a significant step towards improving air connectivity and regional development, Shillong Airport is set to undergo a major expansion that will allow it to accommodate larger aircraft by 2026. The project, estimated at ₹119 crore, is expected to transform the airport into a vital hub for northeastern India. Announcing the development, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar stated that the expansion work is scheduled to begin soon. He informed the media that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has already floated the tender for the ambitious project. “This initiative will not only expand the airport’s capacity but also open up the region to wider air networks, making travel more convenient and boosting our state’s economy,” said Dhar.
The planned upgrades include runway enhancement, improvement in terminal facilities, and technological upgrades to support the operation of larger aircraft. Currently, the airport can only handle smaller turboprop planes, limiting both the volume and range of air travel options available to residents and visitors. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma had earlier called the airport project a “game changer” for the state. He stressed that improved connectivity would be a catalyst for growth, especially in tourism, trade, and infrastructure development.“Meghalaya is a land of immense natural beauty and rich culture. With better flight connectivity, more tourists and investors will be able to reach Shillong and other destinations in our state with ease. This project is a long-awaited step toward realising that vision,” Sangma had said.
The expansion is also expected to generate employment during the construction phase and afterward through increased tourism and business activity. Local entrepreneurs and service providers are likely to benefit from improved footfall and better market access. Once completed, the upgraded Shillong Airport will significantly improve Meghalaya’s aviation network and help integrate it more closely with major metros such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Guwahati. The ability to land larger aircraft is expected to reduce travel time and offer more flight options to passengers.