Maharashtra: Fadnavis Pushes Runway Expansion At Amravati Airport To Handle Larger Aircraft

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has directed officials to draw up a detailed expansion plan for the runway at Amravati Airport.

The directive came during the 91st meeting of the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) in Mumbai, with the CM underlining the airport’s potential in light of rising industrial activity and economic growth in the region.

Fadnavis emphasised the need to extend the existing 1,850 metre runway to 3,000 metres to accommodate larger aircraft and improve connectivity.

This follows the launch of Amravati’s first commercial flight under the Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme, which officially placed the city on India’s aviation map.

Highlighting the city’s growing prominence, the Chief Minister also pointed to the establishment of Air India pilot training institute in Amravati, which is expected to become South Asia’s largest.

For Chandrapur Airport, Fadnavis proposed extending the runway for chartered flight operations.

Further, he instructed officials to identify two to three potential sites in Gadchiroli for constructing a new airstrip.

In anticipation of the 2027 Kumbh Mela in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar, the CM approved key upgrades at Shirdi Airport, including two helipads and eight vehicle parking bays. These are aimed at easing the pilgrimage traffic due to Shirdi Airport’s proximity to Nashik.

Fadnavis also called for fast-tracking development at Latur Airport to support growing demand in Marathwada and nearby districts like Beed and Dharashiv.

He further urged swift completion of night-landing facilities at Karad Airport.

The meeting reviewed progress across airports in Ratnagiri, Akola, Kolhapur, Nanded, and Dhule.

Officials said that 16 regional air routes are currently active under UDAN, with eight more pending approval.

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