Shimla Airport Director Satish Sharma said expansion at the current airport site is not possible due to geographical constraints, but authorities are exploring alternative locations and upgrading existing facilities to improve passenger services.

Shimla Airport Chief Highlights Challenges and Future Plans

Shimla Airport Director Satish Sharma has said that expanding the existing airport infrastructure to accommodate larger aircraft is not feasible because of the challenging terrain surrounding the facility. Speaking after an Airport Advisory Committee meeting, Sharma noted that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is exploring alternative sites near Shimla while simultaneously upgrading the current airport’s infrastructure.

“The Airport Advisory Committee meeting is of great significance to the Airports Authority of India, as it focuses entirely on passenger facilitation,” Sharma said, emphasizing the importance of improving air travel services in the hill state.

The meeting discussed passenger convenience, infrastructure development, and long-term plans aimed at strengthening air connectivity in and around Shimla.

Geographical Constraints Limit Airport Expansion

According to Sharma, the present airport site faces major limitations because of its location amid mountainous terrain. Deep ravines on both sides of the runway make any expansion project extremely difficult, ruling out the possibility of extending the runway to accommodate larger aircraft.

“Expansion at the current site is not feasible because there are deep ravines on both sides of the runway, making it impossible to accommodate larger aircraft,” he said.

Shimla Airport currently operates with a table-top runway measuring approximately 5,050 feet. Due to these constraints, the airport can only support smaller aircraft such as the ATR-42.

Airport officials confirmed that ATR-42 aircraft will continue to operate from the facility in the foreseeable future.

Search for Alternative Sites Near Shimla

Recognizing the limitations of the current airport, the Airports Authority of India has initiated efforts to identify potential alternative locations capable of supporting larger aircraft operations.

Sharma revealed that the Chairman of the Airports Authority of India has directed the concerned departments to conduct surveys of possible sites near Shimla.

“Nevertheless, the Chairman has directed the concerned departments to survey potential alternative sites near Shimla that could accommodate larger aircraft,” he said.

The proposed surveys aim to assess terrain, accessibility, and technical feasibility before any final decision is made. If a suitable site is identified, it could significantly improve air connectivity for Himachal Pradesh and boost tourism in the region.

Terminal Renovation and New Aprons Planned

Although runway expansion is not possible, authorities are moving ahead with plans to modernize the existing airport infrastructure. The Airports Authority of India has begun preparations to renovate the terminal building to improve passenger facilities and operational efficiency.

Sharma also announced that new aprons have already been constructed to support the simultaneous operation of two ATR-42 aircraft.

“While extending the existing runway is not possible, the Airports Authority of India has initiated plans to renovate the terminal building and has also constructed new aprons to facilitate the operation of two ATR-42 aircraft,” he said.

The infrastructure upgrades are expected to enhance passenger experience and streamline airport operations.

Increase in Air Traffic Expected

Airport officials believe that the new aprons and terminal upgrades will allow Shimla Airport to handle a greater volume of passengers in the coming years.

“As a result, when two ATR-42 aircraft begin operating simultaneously, air traffic is expected to increase significantly,” Sharma added.

The increase in air traffic is expected to improve connectivity between Shimla and other cities, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Better aviation infrastructure could also provide a boost to local businesses, hospitality services, and the tourism sector, which remains a key pillar of Himachal Pradesh’s economy.

Industry experts note that improved regional air connectivity is essential for promoting economic growth and ensuring easier access to remote hill destinations.

Airport Advisory Committee Focuses on Passenger Facilitation

The Airport Advisory Committee meeting highlighted the Airports Authority of India’s focus on passenger convenience and long-term infrastructure planning. The committee regularly reviews operational challenges and explores ways to improve services at airports across the country.

For Shimla Airport, the priority remains balancing immediate infrastructure upgrades with the search for a long-term solution that can meet the growing demand for air travel.

Officials say that while the current airport will continue to operate with ATR-42 aircraft, future expansion plans will depend on the outcome of site surveys and feasibility studies.

Conclusion

Shimla Airport Director Satish Sharma has made it clear that geographical limitations prevent the expansion of the existing airport runway. However, the Airports Authority of India is exploring alternative sites near Shimla while investing in upgrades to the current facility.

With terminal renovations and new aprons already in place, the airport is preparing for increased air traffic. At the same time, the search for a location capable of handling larger aircraft could shape the future of air connectivity in Himachal Pradesh.

Key Takeaways

• Shimla Airport cannot be expanded at its current location because of deep ravines surrounding the runway.
• The airport currently operates with a table-top runway of about 5,050 feet.
• ATR-42 aircraft will continue to operate from Shimla Airport.
• The Airports Authority of India has begun surveying alternative sites near Shimla.
• New aprons and terminal renovations are expected to boost passenger traffic.

FAQs

Why is Shimla Airport unable to expand its runway?

The airport is surrounded by deep ravines on both sides, making runway expansion technically unfeasible.

Which aircraft currently operate from Shimla Airport?

Shimla Airport currently handles ATR-42 aircraft.

Is the Airports Authority of India looking for a new airport site?

Yes, the AAI has directed departments to survey alternative sites near Shimla that can accommodate larger aircraft.

What upgrades are planned at the existing airport?

The airport terminal will be renovated, and new aprons have been constructed to support the operation of two ATR-42 aircraft simultaneously.