MBB Airport Agartala is fully ready for international operations, says MP Biplab Kumar Deb in Parliament, urging the Centre to introduce global flight services. With upgraded infrastructure and resolved technicalities, Tripura seeks immediate approval for international airport status.
former Chief Minister and current Lok Sabha MP from West Tripura, Biplab Kumar Deb, on Wednesday urged the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) to grant international status to the Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport in Agartala. Speaking during the ongoing Parliament session, Deb stressed that the state’s premier airport is fully prepared—both technically and infrastructurally—to begin international flight operations without delay.
Raising the matter under parliamentary proceedings, Deb highlighted the immense potential of the north-eastern region and the strategic importance of Tripura in expanding India’s air connectivity with neighboring countries, especially Bangladesh. He noted that MBB Airport has undergone major upgrades in the past few years and meets all essential criteria to function as an international terminal.
“The MBB Airport Agartala is completely ready for international flight operations. The airport has 20 check-in counters, four aerobridges, and the capacity to handle 3 million passengers annually. The state government had also allocated Rs 18.85 crore to the Airport Authority of India for additional infrastructure development,” Deb stated in Parliament.
He further informed that all major technical formalities required for international operations have already been completed. “The Government of Tripura has forwarded a list of 25 police officials who will be deployed for immigration duties at the counters. Since the technical issues have been resolved, the Government of India should now consider introducing international flight services from MBB Airport, Agartala,” Deb said, pressing for swift action.
According to Deb, MBB Airport has recently been accorded the designation of a “bordering airport,” strengthening its eligibility for international operations. As part of the development drive, a modern ground lighting system has also been installed, ensuring safe flight operations even during low-visibility and night-time conditions.
Strategic Importance for Northeast India
The push for international connectivity at MBB Airport is expected to significantly benefit Tripura and the wider northeastern region. Agartala’s proximity to Bangladesh positions it as a crucial hub for short-haul international routes. Direct flight services to cities such as Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet could dramatically reduce travel time and improve cross-border trade and tourism.
Tripura has long advocated for improved connectivity to unlock its economic potential. The state government believes that international flights would attract investment, enhance export opportunities, and strengthen Tripura’s role as a gateway between India and Southeast Asia. With the Act East Policy steering India’s larger geopolitical outreach, improved air infrastructure in the Northeast becomes essential.
Infrastructure Upgrades at MBB Airport
The MBB Airport, inaugurated in a revamped form in early 2022, is considered one of the best airports in the Northeast. Built with modern architectural elements and advanced aviation technology, the airport includes:
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A spacious integrated terminal building
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Automated baggage handling systems
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Multiple aerobridges
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Expanded runway capacity
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Enhanced security and surveillance mechanisms
Deb emphasized that with such extensive upgrades already in place, the airport is more than capable of hosting international arrivals and departures.
Political and Public Support
The demand for international flights from Agartala has garnered widespread support across political and public platforms. Various trade bodies, business chambers, and tourism groups in Tripura have repeatedly appealed to the Centre to expedite the process.
Deb’s intervention in Parliament adds fresh momentum to the cause. As a former Chief Minister, his advocacy carries significant weight, especially in highlighting administrative readiness and the infrastructural preparedness of the airport.
If the Centre grants international status and authorizes flight operations, MBB Airport will become the second international airport in the Northeast with major outward connectivity after Guwahati. Such a development would mark a historic milestone for Tripura’s aviation growth.
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Deb urged both ministries to treat the matter with urgency, as the commencement of international flights would not only boost the state’s economy but also strengthen India’s overall connectivity footprint in the northeastern frontier.
