Previous Year Question
Which of the following Airports in Uttar Pradesh has been granted International Status on 24th June, 2020 by Union Cabinet of India?
Agra Airport
Prayagraj Airport
Gorakhpur Airport
Kushinagar Airport
Correct Answer: D
Detailed Solution
On 24 June 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the declaration of Kushinagar Airport in Uttar Pradesh as an International Airport.
Kushinagar is situated in the north-eastern part of Uttar Pradesh, approximately 50 km east of Gorakhpur. It is one of the major Buddhist pilgrimage centres because Gautama Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana here.
Important Buddhist sites such as Sravasti, Kapilvastu and Lumbini are also located in the wider region. The international airport was therefore intended to improve air connectivity to the Buddhist Circuit and promote international tourism.
Current status: Kushinagar International Airport was inaugurated on 20 October 2021. According to the Airports Authority of India's official 2026 information, the airport covers approximately 589 acres, has a 3,200 m × 45 m runway, and a 3,600 sq m terminal capable of handling about 300 passengers during peak hours.