The Meghalaya High Court has instructed the state government to expedite the land acquisition process necessary for the expansion of the Shillong airport. The directive includes handing over the required land to the Airports Authority of India by January 10 next year.

Acknowledging reports from both the state and the AAI, the court noted potential delays in the previous timeline. The deputy commissioner of Ri-Bhoi district and the transport department have been ordered to directly purchase 11.75 acres of private land by January 10, 2026. The court also reviewed the progress on a proposed exchange of 10.30 acres of defense land.

The AAI continues to seek approval for runway extensions and other works from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. A fresh tender was initiated in September

See Full Page