The long-pending Bokaro Airport project moved closer to operations following a high-level review meeting on Thursday, with the Jharkhand government directing officials to fast-track remaining clearances. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is expected to conduct an inspection in the last week of May or the first week of June, as security clearance emerges as a key hurdle before commercial flights can commence.
Review Meeting Details
The meeting was chaired by state civil aviation secretary Vandana Dadel and attended by Airports Authority of India (AAI) director Binod Kumar, a Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) officer, and representatives from other departments. Deputy Commissioner Ajay Nath Jha participated virtually.
Airport director Binod Kumar stated, “The review meeting was primarily focused on assessing the work already completed and identifying the pending tasks to accelerate the process of starting commercial flight operations from Bokaro Airport.”
Inspection and Clearance Process
Kumar added, “The BCAS team is likely to inspect the airport either in the last week of May or the first week of June. Once BCAS gives clearance regarding security compliance, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) team will conduct its inspection.” He further explained that DGCA officials will check runway conditions, markings, firefighting arrangements, communication equipment, ambulance facilities, and other safety requirements. Flights will start only after the licence is granted.
BSL's Licence Application
Officials indicated that BSL is expected to submit its DGCA licence application within the next 15 days, marking a major step forward after years of delay.
DC Ajay Nath Jha noted, “Most of the work assigned to the state government has already been completed, including obstruction lights on Satanpur hill.”
Pending Items and Challenges
Pending tasks include obtaining the Consent to Operate (CTO), completing security clearances, and finalizing technical procedures. Another significant concern is finding an airline operator, as the lack of a confirmed carrier remains a bottleneck.
