The Central government is likely to initiate steps soon to revive the defunct Kailashahar airport in Unakoti district, Tripura Transport and Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury said on Tuesday.

Minister Chowdhury confirmed that a team from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) conducted a feasibility inspection of the airport on Monday. 

The visit marks a significant move towards operationalising the long-defunct facility.

“Our government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been actively working to strengthen Tripura’s communication infrastructure,” said the minister. 

“Be it roadways, highways, or air connectivity — there has been considerable development since the BJP came to power.”

Chowdhury said he has been consistently advocating for the revival of Kailashahar airport. “I have written several times to both the former and current Union Civil Aviation Ministers and met them in person to press for this demand. I’ve also requested the initiation of flight services from the airport,” he said.

He added that Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha is equally invested in the matter and has taken it up with the Centre.

“The issue has been raised multiple times in the State Assembly, including by members of the opposition. I had assured that a feasibility inspection would take place before Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu’s visit to Tripura — and that inspection was completed yesterday. I am optimistic that the Centre will act at the right time,” Chowdhury added.