The Indian Air Force (IAF) activated an Emergency Landing Facility on the Purvanchal Expressway in Sultanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, on 22 April 2026, conducting day and night operations to bolster defence readiness. The activation was witnessed by the State Minister for Panchayati Raj and Minority Welfare, Om Prakash Rajbhar, Air Marshal B Manikantan, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Air Command, and other officials. The IAF managed rapid establishment and operational use of the expressway strip in coordination with the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) and the local civil administration. The exercise was presented as a validation of procedures for emergency activation of highway airstrips.

A diverse fleet demonstrated operational versatility, with Jaguar, Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30 MKI, C-295 and AN-32 fixed?wing aircraft, supported by a Mi-17 V5 helicopter and Garud Commandos. Operations by day and night confirmed the ability of different platforms to operate from non?standard surfaces and tested associated support processes. The exercise validated standard operating procedures and rapid mobilisation protocols across aircrew and ground support teams. UPEIDA and the district administration participated in logistical and surface management tasks to ensure safe activation and recovery.

The activation is expected to enhance the IAF's capacity to conduct unhindered operations when conventional runways are unavailable, thereby reinforcing operational resilience and flexibility. The activity showcased the professional flying skills of aircrew and the capability of ground crews to prepare and manage expressway airstrips at short notice. Such strategically developed highway airstrips are described as critical force multipliers that can be employed for operational contingencies and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The demonstration highlighted the potential for these facilities to augment national security and regional disaster response capabilities.

The exercise also illustrated a collaborative framework that aligns military operational requirements with civil infrastructure management and local administration support, which optimises the viability of highway airstrips. The synergy between the IAF, UPEIDA and local authorities is presented as strengthening the strategic posture of the nation. Continued joint validation of procedures is intended to sustain readiness and enhance humanitarian aid and disaster relief capabilities in the region.