The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has advanced a critical phase of the New Civil Enclave project at Bihta Airport near Patna, Bihar, by floating a dedicated tender for the construction of an aircraft apron and associated taxiways. This airside infrastructure will play a key role in transforming Bihta into a major civil aviation hub for the state.
Dedicated Apron and Link Taxiway Tender Floated
AAI invited bids for the construction of an apron for the parking of 10 aircraft specifically Airbus A321, Boeing 737-800, and A320 types along with two link taxiways and associated electrical works. The estimated cost for this specific component stands at ₹74.81 crore, excluding GST. The construction timeline is set at 15 months, which includes 3 months reserved for the rainy season.
This apron and taxiway development is integral to the full functionality of the upcoming terminal, ensuring smooth aircraft operations on the ground, including parking, movement, and readiness for takeoff.
Civil Enclave Project Overview
The apron project is part of the larger development of a new Civil Enclave at Bihta, for which the foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 29, 2024. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) subsequently approved the full project on August 16, 2024, with a total estimated cost of ₹1,413 crore.
The major components of the New Civil Enclave at Bihta include a modern Integrated Terminal Building with a built-up area of 66,000 square metres, designed to handle up to 3,000 passengers during peak hours and accommodate an annual passenger load of 50 lakh.
Terminal Construction Tender and Contractor Selection
In September 2024, AAI floated a separate tender for the terminal building, elevated access road, and other civil works, with a project cost of ₹665.85 crore and a completion target of 24 months. This tender attracted interest from 11 construction firms.
By December 2024, the Joint Stock Company Industrial Association Vozrozhdenie was declared the L1 bidder for the development of the New Civil Enclave at Bihta, with a quoted cost of ₹452.69 crore, significantly lower than the initially estimated project cost of ₹665.85 crore.
Strategic Role of Apron in Bihta Civil Enclave
The apron being developed is a vital part of the airport’s airside operations. Capable of parking up to 10 narrow-body aircraft at once, it aligns with the terminal’s designed passenger handling capacity and enables seamless aircraft rotation for arrivals and departures.
In addition, the two link taxiways will ensure efficient aircraft movement between the apron and the main runway, improving turnaround times and enhancing operational efficiency.
