The Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport in Agartala is all set to receive a Category-I runway lighting system. Allowing for safer aircraft landings during fog, rain, and low-visibility conditions. The new system is expected to enhance operational efficiency. Along with flight reliability, especially during the monsoon season.
The upgrade was confirmed by senior officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on Thursday, who said that technical assessments have been completed and civil work is underway.
Category-I System to Enhance Visibility
The Category-I Instrument Landing System (ILS) involves the installation of approach lighting, runway edge lights, and precision approach path indicators. Once in place, this system will enable aircraft to land safely with a decision height as low as 200 feet and visibility of around 800 meters.
According to AAI engineers, the lighting system will be extended up to 720 meters, which is shorter than the typical 900-meter extension for ILS. This adjustment is due to space constraints near the Bangladesh border, just beyond the western end of the runway.
Despite the shorter length, experts believe the system will still meet international aviation safety standards, given Agartala’s unique geographical limitations.
Boost for Air Traffic and Passenger Safety
Officials noted that this move is part of broader infrastructure modernization efforts underway at the airport. With increasing passenger traffic and flight operations, particularly after the terminal’s recent upgrade, runway safety and reliability during adverse weather have become top priorities.
“Passengers will no longer have to face flight delays or diversions due to fog or rain during the winter and monsoon seasons,” said Airport Director Arindam Dutta. “The system is designed to minimize operational disruptions. And boost pilot confidence during approach and landing.”
Currently, many flights to Agartala are often diverted to Guwahati or Kolkata due to poor visibility. Especially in early mornings or late evenings. The new lighting upgrade is expected to drastically reduce such occurrences.
Coordination with Bangladesh Airspace
Given the airport’s proximity to the Indo-Bangladesh international border, authorities have been in touch with their counterparts in Dhaka for any required airspace coordination.
Sources from AAI confirmed that the Ministry of Civil Aviation has formally communicated with Bangladesh for flight calibration and safety verification during the implementation stage.
“We appreciate the cooperation from Bangladesh authorities. Airspace sharing and real-time communication are essential to maintaining regional air safety,” the official added.
Timeline and Budget
The Category-I ILS lighting system project is expected to be completed by December 2025, with a budget of nearly ₹45 crore allocated under the Central Aviation Infrastructure Development Scheme.
The installation work, including cable trenching, light pole fixing, and system calibration, has already begun. And will continue in phases to avoid major disruption to ongoing flight operations.
Local and National Significance
The lighting upgrade not only enhances Agartala Airport’s safety credentials but also cements its role as a key aviation hub in the Northeast. The move supports India’s goal of improving regional connectivity under UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik). Aligning with the vision of Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha. He has consistently advocated for stronger transport links in the state.
What’s Next for MBB Airport?
MBB Airport is also in talks for adding more direct flight routes to Southeast Asia. Considering its strategic location and revamped infrastructure.
Stay tuned for more updates on Tripura’s aviation infrastructure and regional development news.
