Maharajpur AFS
Summary
Operating Country | 🇮🇳 India |
Location | 🇮🇳 India |
Status | ◉ Active |
Usage | Dual |
Year built | 1940 |
Operating Organization | Indian Air Force |
Units |
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Description
Gwalior Airport, also known as Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Terminal, is a dual-use airport serving the city of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. It is located in Maharajpura, 10 km north-east of Gwalior. The airport was initially built by the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1942 as a training base for pilots during World War II. Post-independence, the Indian Air Force (IAF) intended Gwalior to be a hub for its heavy bomber fleet, specifically for No. 5 Squadron operating Liberators, but logistical issues led to the relocation of bomber operations. In subsequent decades, Gwalior developed into a fighter base. The Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) was established at the station, enhancing its strategic importance. By the mid-1980s, Gwalior became associated with the Mirage-2000 fleet, housing multiple squadrons and serving as a center for advanced aerial combat training. The airport is operated by the Airports Authority of India and is notable for having two operational parallel runways. Civil aviation commenced in 1958.