Bagdogra Airport, the key air gateway to scenic destinations like Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Kalimpong, is undergoing a major transformation with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) launching construction of a new, climate-resilient terminal.
Designed to handle 1,000 passengers per hour, the terminal spans 1.2 million sq. ft. and is being developed by CP Kukreja Architects. With rising air traffic in the region, the project aims to enhance both domestic and international connectivity while addressing environmental and infrastructural challenges. The terminal incorporates advanced stormwater drainage systems, culverts, and channels to combat seasonal flooding. It is also designed as a net-zero carbon facility—featuring passive cooling systems, energy-efficient glass, and renewable energy use to minimise carbon emissions.
Architect Dikshu C Kukreja stated, "This project is more than infrastructure—it’s a powerful demonstration of how architecture can respond to both context and climate." The structure draws inspiration from the Eastern Himalayas, featuring aluminium fins and pitched roofs that mimic the tea gardens of Darjeeling and Mount Kangchenjunga’s silhouette.
Passengers can expect naturally ventilated, open interiors with local design elements that blend functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability—marking a bold step toward eco-conscious aviation infrastructure in India.