In a major boost to Meghalaya’s aviation and infrastructure landscape, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has officially floated a tender for the long-anticipated expansion of Shillong Airport — a development hailed as a breakthrough in the state’s pursuit of stronger air connectivity.
The move, described by the government as the culmination of sustained efforts by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, marks a defining step toward transforming Shillong into a regional air hub. Under the proposed plan, the existing runway will be extended by 571 metres, taking its total length to 2,400 metres — a crucial upgrade that will enable the operation of Airbus A-320 aircraft.
The project, estimated to cost Rs 119.44 crore, also includes the expansion of the terminal building, apron, and associated facilities. According to the AAI tender, the work is expected to be completed within 18 months, factoring in a three-month monsoon window.
Calling the development a “moment of great satisfaction,” Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said, “This milestone is the result of persistent engagement with the Centre over the years. Enhanced air connectivity is not merely about convenience — it is about transforming lives, driving tourism, attracting investment, and unlocking opportunities for our youth.”
Once completed, the upgraded airport is expected to be a game changer for Meghalaya, creating ripple effects across the tourism, trade, and service sectors. The project is also viewed as a crucial component of the state’s broader strategy to position Meghalaya as a high-value tourism and investment destination in the Northeast.
The AAI had submitted its draft master plan for the expansion in August 2024, and the process of acquiring an additional 22 acres of land for the project is currently in progress. The expansion is projected to substantially improve Meghalaya’s connectivity with major Indian cities, catalysing economic activity and promoting regional integration.
This infrastructure push aligns with the Meghalaya government’s larger vision of reshaping its tourism and urban development landscape. With close to Rs 4,000 crore committed to tourism infrastructure, the state is developing new circuits and upgrading existing ones to accommodate rising footfall.
Parallel to this, the government is attracting private sector investments, including large resort projects in Umiam, Shillong, and New Shillong, designed to elevate the hospitality ecosystem and generate employment.
In December 2024, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for the Shillong Ropeway Project — the state’s first passenger ropeway — aimed at linking major cultural and tourist landmarks across the capital. The project, envisioned as a model of sustainable urban mobility, complements experiential tourism initiatives in Mawsynram, Mandalgre, Marngar, and Wahkhen. Together, these ventures promise to create new jobs and diversify local economies.
To ensure inclusive growth, the government is simultaneously investing in strategic road infrastructure, connecting Shillong city with the emerging New Shillong Township — a move expected to unlock new avenues of development and improve accessibility.
Adding to its vibrant tourism ecosystem, Meghalaya has successfully positioned festivals such as the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, Me’gong Festival in Tura, and Winter Tales as national attractions celebrating local culture, music, art, and cuisine. With the Shillong Airport expansion, the state anticipates a further surge in visitor numbers.
The government has also prioritised operationalising Baljek Airport in the Garo Hills, with plans to commence flight services and expand its runway to accommodate larger aircraft.
Officials say these efforts — from expanding airports to building ropeways and roads — are being pursued with urgency and strategic intent. Together, they signal Meghalaya’s ambition to not just connect its skies but to build a future where air travel becomes a vital link between opportunity, culture, and progress.
