Welcome to the picturesque realm of Mizoram, where the verdant hills meet the azure skies, and the melodies of nature serenade every soul.
Nestled within this enchanting landscape lies Lengpui Airport (IATA: AJL, ICAO: VELP), the primary gateway to the captivating capital, Aizawl.
This domestic airport in the Mamit district connects Mizoram with key destinations across India, including Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Imphal, and Silchar.
Just 32 kilometers away from Aizawl, Lengpui Airport offers seamless access to the breathtaking wonders of Mizoram to Lengpui Airport flight schedule.
Renowned for its lush, evergreen hills and dense bamboo jungles, Mizoram, known as the Land of Blue Mountains, enthralls visitors with its meandering rivers and majestic waterfalls.
However, on a journey of discovery as you explore the beauty and charm of airports in Mizoram, where every moment is an invitation to explore the extraordinary.
Lengpui Airport
Lengpui Airport is a pivotal air transit point serving Aizawl, the vibrant capital of Mizoram, India. Nestled in the Mamit district, this domestic airport connects Mizoram to major cities nationwide.
From Delhi to Kolkata, Guwahati to Imphal, and Silchar, Lengpui Airport is a gateway to these destinations, facilitating domestic travel and commerce. Noteworthy for being the inaugural airport constructed by a state government in India, Lengpui Airport holds historical significance.
Its strategic location, 32 kilometers from Aizawl, ensures convenient access for travelers journeying to and from the capital city. Moreover, Lengpui Airport boasts modern facilities and amenities, ensuring passenger comfort and convenience.
History
The inception of airports in Mizoram traces back to the ambitious construction of the Lengpui Airport.
This airport, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Mizoram, was a monumental feat in infrastructure development. Constructed at a remarkable cost of ₹ 979 crore, it is a testament to engineering prowess and determination.
Commencing in December 1995, the construction journey spanned over two years and two months, culminating in its completion in February 1998.
Before the advent of Lengpui Airport, accessing Mizoram posed significant logistical challenges. The state was far from railway heads and airports, with Aizawl being 130 km from the nearest railway station at Bairabi and 205 km from the closest airport in Silchar.
This geographical isolation hindered connectivity and hindered the region’s growth prospects. However, the establishment of Lengpui Airport heralded New airports in Mizoram of connectivity and accessibility for Mizoram.
Capable of accommodating 300 incoming and outgoing passengers, the airport became a vital lifeline for the state’s transportation needs.
Its strategic location bridged the gap between Mizoram and the rest of the country, facilitating trade, tourism, and economic development.
Land acquisition for the airport, though essential, was subject to controversy. Approximately 65 percent of the acquired land belonged to influential government officials and political leaders in Lengpui Airport to Aizawl.
These individuals initially purchased plots from residents in Lengpui village at nominal prices, subsequently donating them to the government for airport construction.
Consequently, they received substantial compensation as donors, far exceeding the compensation received by the original landowners. You can explore the monuments of Mizoram further.
Technical details
Lengpui Airport, situated in Mizoram, boasts a unique feature among airports in India with its 2,500-metre runway traversing hilly streams beneath.
Alongside notable counterparts like Kozhikode, Shimla, and Mangalore, Lengpui possesses a table-top runway, creating an optical illusion that necessitates a meticulous approach from pilots.
Adding to its safety measures, Lengpui Airport has recently implemented a Cat I instrument landing system, enhancing aircraft’s capability to land safely, especially during periods of low visibility.
Plans are also underway to construct a runway safety area and isolation parking bay, further fortifying the airport’s infrastructure.
Moreover, as part of strategic military initiatives, the Indian Air Force is considering stationing at least four jet fighters at Lengpui Airport.
Additionally, the aviation fuel services at Lengpui Airport are managed by Indian Oil, ensuring efficient operations and refueling facilities for aircraft.
Helicopter Service
Pawan Hans operates a vital helicopter service in Mizoram, centered around Lengpui Airport, the state’s primary aviation hub.
This service efficiently links Aizawl, the capital, with key destinations, including Lunglei, Lawngtlai, Siaha, Chawngte, Serchhip, Champhai, Kolasib, Khawzawl, Mamit, and Hnahthial.
The network facilitates swift and secure travel, bridging remote areas with urban centers and enhancing connectivity across the state. Safety and punctuality are paramount, ensuring a seamless journey for passengers.
Moreover, the service is crucial in medical emergencies, administrative tasks, and leisure travel, contributing to the region’s socioeconomic development.
Integrated with ground transportation networks, it serves locals and tourists, fostering accessibility and growth.
Accidents/incidents
On 4 May 2011, a Northeast Shuttle’s Cessna Caravan crash at Lengpui airport, overshooting the runway due to marginal weather conditions.
The pilot’s inadequate skill level and failure to execute a stabilized approach led to the mishap, damaging the aircraft beyond repair.
Despite no fatalities, the incident highlighted significant lapses in pilot training and regulatory oversight. Furthermore, the DGCA attributed the accident to the pilot’s decision to continue with an unstable approach instead of diverting.
Additionally, the operator was reprimanded for not ensuring compliance with DGCA regulations, particularly concerning operations in hilly terrain.
The absence of essential safety features like a runway end safety area (RESA) and instrument landing system (ILS) exacerbated the situation.
This incident underscores the importance of stringent training standards, regulatory compliance, and adequate safety measures in preventing aviation accidents, particularly in challenging environments like Mizoram’s airports.
On 23 January 2024, a Myanmarese Military (plane) crashed at Lengpui Airport in Mizoram, injuring 6 out of the 14 individuals on board. Against the backdrop of the Myanmar civil war, 276 soldiers sought refuge in Mizoram.
The preceding day, a plane repatriated 184 soldiers, with 92 remaining. However, while attempting to retrieve the remaining soldiers, the aircraft skidded off the runway and fell into a ravine.
This tragic incident underscores the challenges of managing emergencies amidst geopolitical turmoil and emphasizes the critical importance of safety protocols at airports in Mizoram.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lengpui Airport is the sole aviation hub in Mizoram, offering vital connectivity to the rest of India. Despite recent incidents highlighting safety concerns, the airport plays a crucial role in the state’s development.
Its strategic location and modern infrastructure facilitate travel and trade and symbolize Mizoram’s aspirations for growth and progress. As the region embraces advancements in aviation technology and safety measures, Lengpui Airport remains poised to elevate Mizoram’s standing on the national stage.
With ongoing improvements and a commitment to safety, airports in Mizoram are set to soar to new heights, an era of enhanced connectivity and prosperity for the Land of Blue Mountains.
FAQ
Q: How many airports are in Mizoram?
A: The only airport in Mizoram is Lengpui Airport, located in Aizawl, approximately 275 km from other cities.
Q: What is the other name for Aizawl airport?
A: Aizawl Airport is also known as Lengpui Airport.
Q: How far is Aizawl airport from the city?
A: Lengpui Airport is situated about 32 km away from Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram.
Q: Which is the nearest airport to NIT Mizoram?
A: Lengpui (Aizawl) Airport, located around 35 km from NIT Mizoram, is the nearest airport. Pre-paid taxis are readily available for transportation to the institute from the airport.
