The launch of the Centre’s Modified UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) Scheme has renewed expectations that the long-defunct Kailashahar Airport could soon be revived, bringing improved air connectivity to northern Tripura after more than three decades.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently unveiled the revamped regional connectivity scheme with a financial outlay of ₹28,840 crore over the next 10 years. The programme aims to strengthen India’s aviation network by making 100 existing airstrips operational, developing 200 helipads, expanding regional flight routes through viability gap funding and making air travel more affordable in underserved regions.
Although the Centre has not officially announced the inclusion of Kailashahar Airport in the current phase of the scheme, aviation experts believe the airport is well placed to be considered. They point to the existing infrastructure and the airport’s long-standing presence in discussions on regional air connectivity in the Northeast.
Kailashahar Airport, identified by the IATA code IXH, remained operational until the early 1990s before scheduled commercial flight services were discontinued. Since then, residents of Unakoti and North Tripura districts have relied mainly on road transport to travel to Agartala and neighbouring states, with repeated demands being raised over the years for restoring air services.
The Tripura government has in recent years pressed for the construction of a modern passenger terminal at the airport. The Airports Authority of India has responded positively towards the proposal to restore operations. However, several key requirements remain to be completed before commercial flights can resume. These include strengthening the runway, installing navigational facilities, securing operational clearances and resolving certain land-related issues.
If revived, the airport is expected to initially handle smaller regional aircraft under the UDAN network, reducing travel time for people living in northern parts of the state. Improved air connectivity is expected to benefit tourism, trade, healthcare, education, emergency services and government administration by providing faster access to major cities.
The reopening of the airport could also complement Tripura’s ongoing infrastructure development, including improvements in road, rail and digital connectivity. Better air links are expected to encourage investment, support eco-tourism in the Unakoti region and provide easier travel for students, entrepreneurs, patients and visitors.
