The Tripura government is taking steps to restart flight operations at Kailashahar Airport after a gap of 35 years. The government plans to revive the airport under the Central Government’s UDAN regional connectivity scheme. Kailashahar Airport, located in Tripura’s Unakoti district, has remained non-operational for scheduled commercial flights for more than three decades. The proposed reopening could improve air travel options for people in northern Tripura and support tourism and business activities.
Why Is Tripura Planning to Reopen Kailashahar Airport?
The main goal of the Kailashahar Airport revival project is to improve air connectivity in northern Tripura. The government aims to make travel easier and support regional development. The project could also benefit local residents, businesses and tourists. Better air services may reduce dependence on long road journeys and improve access to other parts of the region. During the review meeting, the Chief Minister also stressed the need to increase state revenue alongside the proposed resumption of air services.
Kailashahar Airport Development Under the UDAN Scheme
The Central Government is supporting efforts to revive Kailashahar Airport under the UDAN scheme, which focuses on improving regional air connectivity across India.
What Is the UDAN Scheme?
UDAN stands for “Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik.” The Government of India introduced the scheme to make regional air travel more accessible and connect smaller cities and underserved areas with the country’s aviation network. The programme supports airport development and encourages airlines to operate regional flight services. Through UDAN, smaller airports such as Kailashahar may get opportunities to restart passenger operations and improve connectivity with other destinations.
How Could Kailashahar Airport Benefit Travellers and Tourism?
The proposed reopening of Kailashahar Airport could improve travel opportunities for people living in northern Tripura. Travellers in northern Tripura often rely on road journeys to reach airports and other major transport connections. The return of commercial flights could offer another travel option once airlines commence operations.
The airport revival may provide several benefits:
- Better regional connectivity: Flights could improve access between northern Tripura and other destinations.
- Easier travel: Residents may get additional transport options for business, education and personal journeys.
- Tourism development: Improved air access could encourage more visitors to explore destinations in and around Unakoti district.
- Business opportunities: Better transport connections may support trade, investment and local economic activities.
However, these benefits depend on the airport becoming operational and airlines introducing suitable routes.
When Will Kailashahar Airport Flights Resume?
The Tripura government has not announced an official date for restarting commercial flights at Kailashahar Airport. Although revival efforts are underway, several factors will determine when the airport can reopen. These include infrastructure readiness, operational approvals, airline interest and the type of aircraft suitable for the airport.
A tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) involving the Tripura government, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Airports Authority of India was reported on September 22, 2026, as part of the airport’s revival efforts. However, the agreement does not by itself confirm that the airport is ready to resume commercial passenger operations.
As of October 14, 2026, the reports reviewed do not identify a confirmed commercial airline, passenger route, ticket price or flight launch date. Travellers should follow official announcements from the Airports Authority of India and the Tripura government for further updates.
The Kailashahar Airport reopening plan could improve regional air connectivity in Tripura after a gap of 35 years. However, travellers will need to wait for an official announcement confirming the resumption of commercial flights.
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