Barapani AFS
Summary
Operating Country | 🇮🇳 India |
Location | 🇮🇳 India |
Status | ◉ Active |
Usage | Dual |
Year built | 1965 |
Operating Organization | Indian Air Force |
Description
Shillong Airport, also known as Umroi Airport, is a domestic airport located in Umroi, Meghalaya, India, serving the city of Shillong. It was constructed in the mid-1960s and became operational in the mid-1970s. The airport is operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Significant developments include land acquisition for expansion in 2009, leading to the inauguration of a new terminal building in 2011. Further land was allotted for expansion in 2015. In 2017, the AAI upgraded the airport's infrastructure by installing an Instrument Landing System (ILS), constructing two refuelling facilities, extending the runway, and removing flight-path obstructions. The airport received its Category 3C license from the Indian DGCA in June 2019, enabling operations for aircraft like the Q400 and ATR 72.
While primarily a public airport serving civilian airlines, Shillong Airport is also listed as an 'Indian Air Force base' under the Eastern Air Command, indicating a dual-use capacity. There are ongoing plans to extend the existing 6,000 ft runway by 900 meters to the south to accommodate larger aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, which would require additional land acquisition and significant investment. The state government is collaborating with AAI and the central government on this expansion project, aiming to minimize environmental impact by extending to the south to avoid cutting into hills.