FCC

Keshod Airport to Handle AB-320 Flights by January 2027

2025-08-07

The Keshod Airport in Junagadh, Gujarat, is set to accommodate AB-320 type aircraft by January 2027, according to the Ministry of Civil Aviation. This follows infrastructure upgrades undertaken by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) as part of a broader effort to enhance regional connectivity and boost tourism.

Responding to unstarred questions from Rajya Sabha MP Parimal Nathwani, the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, confirmed that the AAI is extending the airport’s runway to 2,500 metres at an estimated cost of Rs 1.91 billion. The project is currently in progress with no reported delays, and the timeline for completion has been set at 18 months.

In addition, the development of a new terminal building is underway, forming part of a wider Rs 3.64 billion investment in airport infrastructure. The terminal, costing Rs 1.42 billion, will span 6,500 square metres and be capable of handling 400 departing and 400 arriving passengers during peak hours. The tender for the construction has been issued, with completion expected within 15 months of awarding the contract.

Nathwani, who also serves as Director of Corporate Affairs at Reliance Industries Limited, said the airport’s upgrade would significantly benefit wildlife tourism and religious travel. “This development will make it easier for wildlife enthusiasts to visit Gir National Park and for devotees from across India and abroad to access the revered Somnath temple,” he stated.

In response to further questions, the ministry revealed that there are currently no scheduled commercial flights operating from Keshod Airport. Since January 2025, 52 Alliance Air flights on the Ahmedabad-Keshod-Diu and Mumbai-Keshod sectors have been cancelled due to aircraft issues.

On aviation safety concerns following a tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a series of stringent safety measures. These include intensified inspections of Air India’s Boeing 787 fleet, broader surveillance across regions, and the issuance of General Safety Circular 01 of 2025 to conduct a special audit of the aviation ecosystem. The government has also reviewed safety protocols across all major airlines and airports.