Context:

• The state government of Haryana is actively pursuing the development of an Integrated Aviation Hub (IAH) at Maharaja Agrasen Airport in Hisar, aiming to enhance the region's aviation capabilities and economic prospects.

Key Points:

• This initiative has gained momentum with the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and the Haryana Airport Development Corporation (HADC).
• The agreement, signed in New Delhi, signifies a collaborative effort to secure financial arrangements for technical assistance in completing various development projects related to the aviation hub.

Key aspects of the MoU

The MoU was signed by US Ambassador Eric Garcetti on behalf of US Trade and Development Agency and Dr. Narhari Singh Bangar, advisor to the Department of Civil Aviation, on behalf of HADC. The primary focus of this agreement is to provide technical assistance for several critical projects, including:

• Operations at Hisar airport
• Development of an integrated manufacturing cluster
• Establishment of a global cargo logistics hub
• Creation of an overhaul facility for aircraft maintenance

Economic impact

• Chief Minister of Haryana in this regard has emphasized that this partnership will not only advance technical progress within the aviation sector but also foster long-term economic development in the region. The proposed roadmap from this agreement is expected to create new employment opportunities and position Haryana as a leading hub in manufacturing and logistics.

Development Phases of the Aviation Hub

The Integrated Aviation Hub at Hisar is envisioned to be developed in three distinct phases:

Phase I: Initial Developments

• This phase focused on establishing a domestic airport under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS), which aims to enhance air travel accessibility across India.

Phase II: Expansion and infrastructure enhancement

Currently underway, this phase includes:

• Construction of a 10,000-foot runway
• Development of a terminal building capable of handling 2.1 million passengers annually
• Establishment of facilities for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations

Phase III: Comprehensive Aviation Ecosystem

The final phase will encompass:

• Establishment of an Aerospace Manufacturing facility
• Creation of an Aviation Training Centre and university
• Development of an Aerotropolis, integrating commercial and residential spaces around the airport

Strategic importance

• The strategic location of Hisar Airport—approximately 165 km from Delhi—positions it as a vital link in enhancing connectivity not only for Haryana but also for neighboring states like Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. This development is aligned with India's broader objectives to improve infrastructure and stimulate economic growth through enhanced air connectivity.

involvement of USA 

• The involvement of USTDA highlights the international interest in India's aviation sector. The agency's support will include capacity building for HADC to effectively implement the integrated aviation hub projects. This collaboration is seen as a significant step towards strengthening India’s supply chain network and enhancing cargo logistics infrastructure.