Purnea – PXN, Purnea Airport

Purnea Airport (PXN) is a planned city enclave at Purnea Air Force Station, situated in the western section of Chunapur. The airfield operates as an Indian Air Force Base, while the Airport Authority of India (AAI) civil enclave (adjacent to it) is still in progress. This civil department is further being developed under India’s regional connectivity program to serve the regions of Purnea and the nearby districts of north-eastern Bihar.

The civil terminal is a single building designed for domestic routes, featuring point-to-point regional links. It is a beneficial alternative for those booking flights to Purnea in Bihar and the northeastern parts of the state, enabling crowd-handling at the Darbhanga and Patna airports. Moreover, the runway at Chunapur is 9,000 ft, making it suitable for accommodating a typical regional aircraft.

  • The military base of Purnea has been upgraded under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme to serve commercial flights.
  • The new terminal is aimed at regular passengers flying to major cities in India.
  • Developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the civil enclave covers approximately 67 acres of land.
  • The main building is a single-storey interim terminal building which spans over 3,000 square meters with an average construction cost of 34 crore INR.
  • The terminal features 6 check-in counters, 2 boarding gates, and a single baggage conveyor belt.
  • The new building is designed to accommodate 300 passengers per hour during peak time.
  • Local artistry is brilliantly showcased in the architecture, flaunting Manjusha paintings and promoting the cultural heritage of the state.
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Purnea Airport Guide

How to reach Purnea Airport?

Travel to the Purnea Airport (PXN) in Chunapur via multiple commute options. The following are a few modes travellers can use to reach the airport.  

By Bus:

Both BSRTC buses and local buses operate to Purnea via diverse routes around the state. Initially, the buses operate up to Purnea Bus Terminus and then local buses are available from the terminus to permit passenger travel to the Purnea Airport in Chunapur. Although no airport shuttle buses are functional in this region, a ride to Purnea Bus Stop, followed by a local bus or cab ride to Chunapur, brings one to the doorstep of the air hub.

By Cabs:

Both rental cabs and shuttle cars operate extensively to the airport, making travel more convenient and faster. It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive from the city centre to Purnea Airport.

By private vehicle:

Travellers can drive via National Highway 27, which is the nearest to the airport. Located in the Chunapur village along the western outskirts of the city, it is further accessible via National Highway 31 and 131A. There is ample parking space for both cars and two-wheelers outside the terminal.

Purnea Airport Details - IATA, PIN Code and Address

Here are some of the vital details regarding Purnea Airport at a glance:

  • Address/location - Civil Enclave, adjacent to Chunapur Air Force Station, Purnea, Bihar.
  • IATA Code - PXN
  • Airport Pin Code - 854303
  • Flight tracker - Stay informed with real-time updates on your flight’s status.

Purnea Airport Terminal Information

The civil terminal at the Purnea Airport is constructed to serve as a single domestic terminal operating adjacent to the Air Force Station. It is developed under the initiative of the regional connectivity (UDAN) policies and possesses a long existing runway. There is a new passenger building which focuses on the point-to-point linking between major eastern and northern cities in India. Flights to Kolkata and Delhi are expected under UDAN connectivity, subject to schedules. Furthermore, several routes are expected to become operational once the UDAN bidding mechanism and aircraft interests are taken into consideration.

Additionally, there are provisions for extra boarding gates and baggage belts to fulfil the growing demand. This aims to facilitate smoother travel while uplifting the economy of northeast Bihar via UDAN policies. There are also hotels in Purnea that offer cab services on request, so that your trip to the airport or to your hotel is hassle-free.

Purnea Airport facilities

Air conditioning in the airport waiting lounges with sufficient seating areas
Efficient CCTV surveillance with security screening
Well-maintained restrooms with purified drinking water facilities
Constant ground staff support for wheelchair assistance and prompt first-aid needs
A food kiosk or cafe, though the selections may be limited initially
An app-based pickup zone for taxis and cabs outside the terminal
Separate intercity bus access point
Flight info screens are updated at regular intervals
Parking area with spacious accommodation for cars and bikes
ATMs and currency counters for exchanges and money withdrawal

Purnea Airport

Designed for quick check-ins, Purnea Airport is a convenient option for short-distance flights.

Here's a list of facilities that passengers can expect at the air hub:

  • Air-conditioned waiting space: Passengers can access the air-conditioned seating areas and the premium lounge for a comfortable wait for their flights.
  • Quick security check-in process: The baggage drop-off and check-in process at the security points is fast and efficient.
  • Functional and convenient layout: The airport is designed to handle swift crowd management, making it easy to navigate. The single small terminal minimises the length of queues and long walks.
  • Amenities: The airport facilitates RO-purified water and clean washrooms. Baggage belts ensure operational ease with staff to conduct pickups efficiently.
  • Proximity to city: Being near the Purnea Bus Stand, it is easy to travel to the airport via budget transportation. Cabs and rental shuttle services are also available in this area.
  • Efficient and helpful information desk: Passengers can raise concerns regarding wheelchair assistance, medical supplies or other emergency requirements and expect timely resolution.

Places to visit near Purnea Airport

If you are scheduled to have a short layover at Purnea Airport, spend some time browsing the nearby attractions. These include shopping malls, spiritual centres and other recreational zones.

Jalalgarh Fort

Built in the 18th century during Mughal rule, the Jalagarh tower was constructed as a defensive structure during cross-border conflicts of the time. Although parts of it are in ruins, the fort features unique Indo-Islamic architecture and artistry. The panoramic view of the region from the tower is breathtaking.

  • Location: Jalalgarh, Purnea district
  • Distance: Approximately 10 km

Kali Bari Temple

This is one of the oldest temples in Purnea township. The holy shrine is frequented by many devotees around the region and beyond. They engage in regular rituals and offer prayers at Maa Kali, the deity worshipped here. Festivals like Durga Puja and Kali Puja are celebrated elaborately at the temple with annual fairs attracting a large crowd of visitors.

  • Location: Line Bazar, Purnea town
  • Distance: Approximately 12 km

Bhatta Bazar and Line Bazar Market

The ideal destination for street shopping in Purnea, the Bhatta Bazar region is highly populated with endless shops and local paddlers. Visitors can indulge in the local sweets and engage in short shopping sprees while exploring the place. Line Bazar Market is the hub for handicraft items and modern goods, making this region a lively spot.

  • Location: Central Purnea
  • Distance: Approximately 11 km

Gandhi Maidan Park

The Gandhi Maidan Park is a large green space with walking trails and a central pond. It offers walking trails for joggers, and seats are available at the park to simply relax and enjoy the ambience. A pond is situated in the centre of the park, creating a picturesque view for the spectators.

  • Location: Krityanand Nagar and Central Purnea
  • Distance: Approximately 12 km

The Banaili Raj Palace

Also known as Banmankhi Palace, the Banaili Raj Palace is a regal site associated with the princely Banaili dynasty. Although some parts of the royal building are in a dilapidated state, the site still reflects the glorious times and grandeur of the bygone era. It is a popular spot for history lovers and just a short drive from the Purnea Airport.

  • Location: Banmankhi, Purnea District
  • Distance: Approximately 35 km

Kosi River Bank

Purnea city lies on the bank of the Kosi River with highly fertile alluvial plains. A short drive from the airport brings travellers closer to the riverbank, known for activities like leisure strolls and fishing. This scenic destination is also popular among locals and tourists as a picnic spot, offering ideal spots for photography and relaxing nature walks.

  • Location: Outskirts of Purnea
  • Distance: Approximately 20 km

Hotels Near Purnea Airport

Curate an itinerary to Purnea in Bihar with these comfortable stay facilities situated close to the airport:

  • Hotel Holiday International (Bhatta Bazar)
  • Mayfair Purnea
  • Hotel Prajyot
  • Hotel JMD International, Purnea
  • Paras International
  • Hotel Park Square
  • Hotel Sunshine, Purnea

FAQs about Purnea Airport

Q. What public transport options are available to reach Purnea Airport?

A: You can access the Purnea Airport via cabs, rental shuttle cars and intercity buses operating to the nearest Purnea bus stand. The cab services are available via Chunapur and allow visitors to reach the doorstep of the Purnea air hub itself.

Q. Is Purnea Airport wheelchair accessible?

A: Yes, Purnea Airport has wheelchair access on request and provides prompt assistance to passengers who have limited mobility. Moreover, staff support is available to the visitors in case of any urgent requirements.

Q. How many terminals does Purnea Airport have?

A: There is a single terminal at the Purnea Airport, which caters to domestic flights with planned connectivity to major metropolitan cities.

Q. Is the terminal at the Purnea Airport expected to be accessible?

A: Yes, the new AAI air hub typically includes facilities like ramps for passengers with reduced mobility and accessible restrooms to freshen up between flights. Wheelchair assistance and an information kiosk further enhance the convenience of flying from Purnea.

Q. How far is Purnea Airport from the city centre?

A: Purnea Airport (PXN) is located in the western region of Bihar in Chunapur. It is around 10 to 15 km from the centre of Purnea and Bhatta Bazar, a significant landmark of the city. It takes only 30 minutes to commute between central Purnea and the airport.