Ex-civil aviation consultant warns against handing over Lengpui airport to IAF

Aizawl: Former principal consultant (civil aviation) Wing Commander Joe Lalhmingliana has said it would be a grave mistake for Mizoram if the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) govt, led by chief minister Lalduhoma, hands over the Lengpui airport to the Indian Air Force (IAF). Speaking to TOI on Saturday, Lalhmingliana expressed concerns that the state govt's intention to transfer control of the state-owned Lengpui airport would impose a heavy burden on civilians flying in and out of the airport, as the IAF's primary focus would be on defence rather than passenger welfare. "The airport handles around 4.25 lakh passengers annually, which is a significant achievement for an airport with only one runway. There are still opportunities for improvement and increased profits, which would not be possible if the IAF takes over. Under the ministry of defence, there would be no space for cargo handling," he said. Lalhmingliana also said the airport generates approximately Rs 9 crore annually, with funds for improvements and renovations coming from the central govt, not the state budget. A committee led by adviser to the chief minister, TBC Lalvenchhunga, was formed by the ZPM govt shortly after taking office in Dec last year to explore the possibility of handing over Lengpui airport to the Airport Authority of India (AAI) or the IAF. The state govt's intention to transfer the airport to the IAF has drawn criticism from opposition parties and the NGO coordination committee, a coalition of major civil societies and student organisations.