The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has initiated steps to revive the long-defunct Kailashahar airport in Tripura’s Unakoti district. The move follows a request from the state government and instructions from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

On May 27, AAI’s Regional Executive Director for the Northeast, M Raju Krishore, along with Agartala Airport Director K C Meena, visited the airport to assess existing infrastructure, land conditions, and visibility.

The airport, inactive for over 30 years, played a strategic role during the India–Pakistan war in1971, supporting Indian Air Force surveillance. At present, its 1000 metre runway cannot accommodate aircraft like the ATR. Smaller planes, seating16 to 19 passengers, are not always available, raising operational and safety concerns.

To support the revival, AAI has asked the state government for either 75 or 205 acres of land. The revival blueprint will be finalised based on land allocation.

Congress MLA Birajit Sinha has reiterated his appeal for urgent revival, citing regional development benefits.