AAI plans revamp of Himalayan airports

The Airport Authority of India (AAI) has earmarked a total of Rs2547.71 lakh for the development of Kullu and Kangra airports and an amount of Rs98.29 lakh for the development of Shimla airport.

AAI has taken up upgradation works for construction of a new terminal building for 100 passengers at a time with all amenities, a new apron to accommodate 3 ATR-42 type of aircraft, a new taxiway, a new fire station, an MT workshop and a car park etc at the Kullu-Manali airport. Work on the apron and taxiway has been completed, and that on the new terminal building is likely to be completed by 30 June, 2006.

Various development works have been undertaken at the Kangra (Dharamshala) airport and new control tower cum technical block is under construction and is likely to be completed by 30 June 2006. These include strengthening and extension of runway, construction of a new apron for the parking of two 50-seater aircraft with a link taxiway, construction of a new terminal building for 100 passengers with a car park, a new fire station, etc.