Expansion of Shillong Airport to start very soon: Dhar

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 14, 2025

Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Transport Sniawbhalang Dhar on Monday informed that the expansion of Shillong Airport will start very soon for ensuring the landing of bigger aircrafts by next year. 

Speaking to media persons, Dhar said, “We have good news. The Airport Authority of India (AAI) has floated a tender for expansion of the Shillong Airport and I hope within 2026, we will be able to get big flights landing there.”

Stating there is no difficulties reported, the deputy CM said, “Tender has been floated and work will start.”

“Land acquisition process is almost completed and we will soon make payment (releasing of land compensation). Everything is in order. Everything is falling in place and that is why AAI is able to float the tender,” he added.

On April 5, AAI has issued a tender notice for the long-awaited expansion of the Shillong Airport. The move comes as a direct outcome of the consistent and strategic efforts led by the Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, who has made improved air connectivity one of the topmost priorities of his government.

The scope of the expansion includes a 571-metre extension of the existing runway, thereby, bringing the total length to 2,400 metres. This will also facilitate the operation of A-320 type aircraft in Shillong. In addition, the project involves the expansion of the terminal building and apron, along with various associated infrastructure works. As per the tender notice, the estimated cost of the mega project is Rs 11,944.47 lakh (Rs 119.44 crore), and the expected completion period is 18 months, inclusive of a three-month window for monsoons.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma had stated, “This is a moment of great satisfaction and optimism for Meghalaya. The issuance of the tender for Shillong Airport’s expansion is the result of our consistent efforts over the past several years. Improved air connectivity is not just about convenience- it is about transforming lives, boosting tourism, attracting investment, and creating opportunities for our youth. Once completed, this project, along with our efforts to enhance connectivity and tourism activities in the state, will be a game changer for the people of Meghalaya.”

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has taken up the matter of Shillong Airport’s expansion with the Centre at multiple levels. The project is viewed as a cornerstone of Meghalaya’s ambition to emerge as a key tourism and investment destination in the country.

The AAI had submitted the draft master plan for the expansion in August 2024, and the land acquisition process for the additional 22 acres required for the project is already underway. The Shillong Airport expansion is expected to substantially enhance connectivity with major metropolitan hubs across India, paving the way for increased tourist inflow, business travel, and regional integration. The airport expansion is part of a larger vision of the Meghalaya government to transform the tourism and urban infrastructure landscape.