The process of transferring the under-construction Halwara International Airport to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is on, with officials expecting the handover to be completed within a month. The public works department (PWD), which oversaw the airport’s construction, is conducting final checks before AAI takes control and begins operational preparations.
A PWD official confirmed that the transfer process had started last week. The official said: “We are reviewing various services, including public health systems, electrical infrastructure, and fire safety measures. Since AAI is responsible for making the airport operational, they need to verify these systems before taking full control.” PWD sources claim that the handover is expected to be finalised by mid-April. Once completed, AAI will begin obtaining the permissions to commence airport operations.
The terminal building has been completed, with key systems such as air conditioning, baggage handling, and lighting already functional. Officials noted that furnishing work will be done just before operationalisation to prevent dust accumulation.
One of the final tasks is the carpeting of the runway, which is set to begin this week and should be finished by mid-April. “Runway work requires specific temperature conditions, and March is the ideal time for this,” an official explained. The last layers of Link Taxi Tracks 1 and 2 will also be laid this month, and a trolley gate has already been installed.
An AAI official confirmed that: “Minor finishing tasks remain. AAI is coordinating with the PWD and the Air Force to expedite the airport’s readiness.
Residents are eager for the launch. Local resident Mandeep Singh said:. “It will benefit region’s traders, industrialists, professionals, students, and travellers.”