Agartala MBB Airport to Upgrade Landing System by December; Flights to Operate Even in 400-Metre Visibility:Report
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Agartala
- Jul 08, 2026
- 124
Air travellers usingMaharaja Bir Bikram Airport (MBB) in Agartala are likely to receive major relief from frequent winter flight disruptions. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has launched an ambitious runway lighting upgrade that will enable aircraft to land safely even when visibility drops to just 400 metres, significantly improving flight operations during dense fog and adverse weather.
According to the report this project is expected to be completed by December next year, marking a major milestone in strengthening aviation infrastructure in Tripura.
Current Visibility Restrictions Cause Flight Delays
At present, aircraft can land at Agartala's MBB Airport only when runway visibility remains at least 800 metres. During winter mornings and periods of dense fog, visibility often falls below this limit, forcing airlines to delay arrivals, divert flights, or cancel services altogether.
These disruptions have long affected thousands of passengers travelling to and from Tripura during the fog season.
Advanced Approach Lighting System to Enhance Safety
To overcome this challenge, AAI has initiated the installation of a 900-metre-long advanced approach lighting system on the northern side of the runway.
The new lighting network will work alongside the airport's existing Instrument Landing System (ILS), providing pilots with better visual guidance during final approach. Once operational, aircraft will be able to land safely with runway visibility of only 400 metres, reducing weather-related operational disruptions.
Airport Director Explains the Project
Airport Director Kishan Mohan Nehra said that runway visibility frequently drops well below the current operational limit during dense fog, making landings extremely difficult.
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He explained that reducing the minimum landing visibility requirement from 800 metres to 400 metres will greatly improve operational efficiency and passenger convenience while minimizing flight delays and cancellations.
Installation Work Near India-Bangladesh Border
According to airport authorities, the approach lighting system will be installed towards the Narayanpur–Narsinghgarh side of the runway.
Since the 900-metre installation corridor lies close to the India-Bangladesh international border, the project required careful planning. Officials have already secured almost all required land, with only one small private plot remaining for the installation of a three-to-four-metre lighting pole.
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A formal request has been submitted to West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar seeking permission to complete the final phase of land acquisition.
Project Expected to Be Operational by December
Airport officials are confident that the entire approach lighting project will be completed by December next year.
Once commissioned, the upgraded landing infrastructure is expected to dramatically improve operational reliability at Agartala Airport, allowing more flights to operate safely during foggy weather and significantly reducing delays and cancellations.
The project is expected to strengthen air connectivity for Tripura while enhancing passenger safety and travel convenience.
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