Airport, imphal, manipur · AI-written from Wikipedia, not independently verified
A Guide to Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal
Discover the history and ongoing development of Manipur's primary aviation gateway.
Official airport website
IMF · VEIM · Imphal, Manipur
Airport name, codes and official link checked 26 Oct 2026. Confirm current flights and travel requirements with the airport and your airline.
All airportsThis guide was written with AI help by Indias.com. Check details such as timings, access and bookings with official sources before you travel.
Tags: Imphal Airport · Manipur Aviation · Northeast India Airports · Bir Tikendrajit International Airport · Airports Authority of India
Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, also known as Imphal Airport and formerly referred to as Tulihal International Airport, serves as the primary international gateway for Imphal, the capital of Manipur. Located approximately 7 km south of the city centre, it stands as the second-largest and third-busiest airport in the Northeast India region, following the major hubs in Guwahati and Agartala.
The airport has a long-standing history, having served as an all-weather Royal Air Force base during World War II. It transitioned into a key civilian facility in 1959, replacing the civilian operations previously handled at Koirengei Airfield.
Historical Significance
The site of the current airport played a strategic role during World War II, functioning as a base for the Royal Air Force. Its ability to operate in all weather conditions made it a vital military asset during the conflict.
In 1959, the facility underwent a significant shift when it officially replaced Koirengei Airfield for civilian aviation needs. Since then, it has evolved to become a critical infrastructure point for the state of Manipur.
Major Infrastructure Upgrades
In June 2019, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) initiated a massive regional project valued at ₹3,400 crore to upgrade various airports across the northeastern region. As part of this initiative, ₹720 crore was allocated specifically for the further enhancement of Imphal Airport.
The development project features a ₹600 crore integrated terminal building. Additionally, the investment covers new airside infrastructure including aircraft parking bays for refueling and maintenance, link taxiways, and a modern Air Traffic Control tower.
Regional Importance
Bir Tikendrajit International Airport is a central figure in Northeast India's aviation landscape. It is currently ranked as the third-busiest airport in the region, trailing only Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport and Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport.
The ongoing technical upgrades, including a new control and technical block, aim to support the growing demands of the city and its surrounding areas, ensuring the airport remains a modern link for the region.
Related articles
- Biju Patnaik International Airport: Odisha’s Premier Aviation GatewayDiscover the history and significance of Bhubaneswar’s international airport
- A Guide to Birsa Munda Airport in RanchiDiscover the history and facilities of Jharkhand's domestic aviation hub.
- A Guide to Chennai International Airport: The Gateway to South IndiaEverything you need to know about the aviation hub serving Tamil Nadu's capital.
- A Guide to Dabolim Airport: Goa's Civil Enclave at INS HansaDiscover the history and operations of the international airport serving Panaji and South Goa.