This is India’s Smallest Airport: Runway Only 1 KM Long, Even Pilots Feel the Pressure Here
This is India’s Smallest Airport: Runway Only 1 KM Long, Even Pilots Feel the Pressure Here
When we picture airports, we often imagine sprawling runways and busy terminals. But tucked away in the scenic hills of Meghalaya is Baljek Airport — India’s smallest airport — that redefines this image with a modest 1-kilometer runway.
A Runway That Challenges Even Expert Pilots
Located about 33 kilometers from Tura, Baljek Airport (also known as Tura Airport) is known not for its traffic, but for its challenging conditions. The 1 km runway, far shorter than standard international runways, demands exceptional skill and concentration from pilots. Landings here are anything but routine.
Built for Small-Scale Flights
Baljek Airport is designed exclusively for smaller aircraft. It can accommodate only 20-seater Dornier 228 planes, which are ideal for short regional routes. Plans for expansion were proposed but never implemented, limiting its operations to light aircraft only.
Decades in the Making
The journey to bring Baljek Airport to life began in 1983 with a proposal to the central government. Approval came in 1995, and the airport was completed in 2008 at a cost of around ₹12.52 crore.
A Small Airport with a Big Purpose
Despite its small size, Baljek Airport holds strategic importance in enhancing connectivity for Meghalaya’s remote areas. While it may lack the scale of major airports, its impact on regional accessibility and development is significant — proving that even the smallest runways can make a meaningful difference.
