Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has sought the Centre’s support to accelerate several major civil aviation projects in the state, including the expansion of Shillong Airport, development of Baljek Airport, construction of additional heliports and a proposed water aerodrome at Umiam Lake.
During a meeting with Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu in New Delhi, Sangma reviewed the status of the projects and requested early approvals to improve air connectivity across Meghalaya.
The Chief Minister said the expansion of Shillong Airport at Umroi remains the state’s highest priority. He informed the Union Minister that the required land has already been handed over to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), environmental clearance has been secured and the runway expansion contract has been awarded. He urged the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to grant the necessary execution approval so construction can begin without delay.
According to Sangma, the upgraded runway will enable Airbus A320 aircraft to operate from Shillong, paving the way for direct flights to major Indian cities and reducing dependence on Guwahati airport. He also highlighted that the state government is funding the relocation of obstacles along the flight path, including the shifting of Umden Mission Village.
The Chief Minister further requested the AAI to take over Baljek Airport in Tura, proposing a phased development plan beginning with smaller aircraft operations before expanding to larger commercial flights. He also sought approval for the project under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN.
Sangma additionally requested the sanction of more heliports across the state and proposed the development of a water aerodrome at Umiam Lake following the successful seaplane demonstration held in 2024. He said these initiatives would significantly enhance regional connectivity, promote tourism and contribute to Meghalaya’s economic development.
