Malda Airport (LDA)

Malda Airport (VEMH/LDA) is currently non-operational for commercial passenger flights, and therefore, recent traveler reviews and experiences are largely unavailable. Information from late 2024 and early 2025 indicates the airport is in a dilapidated condition, despite ongoing efforts and demands for its revival under schemes like UDAN.

What Travelers Would Appreciate (Future Potential/Aspirations):

• Regional Connectivity: If operational, travelers would benefit from domestic flights primarily connecting to Kolkata, with proposed routes also including Cooch Behar, offering easier access to the Malda region.
• Boost to Local Economy and Tourism: An active airport is highly desired by local residents, businesses, and political representatives to foster socio-economic development and tourism in the historically significant Malda area.
• Accessibility to Healthcare: Operational flights would significantly benefit residents needing to travel for medical treatment, especially to South India, which is currently a long journey by road or rail.
• Road and Rail Connectivity: The surrounding area is generally well-connected by road and rail, suggesting potential for integrated transportation options once flights commence.

Common Complaints (Current State/Challenges):

• Non-Operational Status: The most significant complaint is the airport's inactive status for commercial flights, with services withdrawn decades ago (e.g., Vayudoot flights ceased in 1989).
• Dilapidated Condition: As of late 2024, the airport is described as being in a dilapidated condition, with a collapsed main gate and an unpaved runway. The office building is also noted to be in disrepair.
• Cancelled Revival Bids: Attempts to revive the airport under the Regional Connectivity Scheme - UDAN have faced setbacks, with a proposed Malda-Kolkata route bid being cancelled due to the airport's non-readiness.
• Lack of Facilities: Given its non-operational status, there are currently no functional terminal facilities, amenities, security checkpoints, customs, or immigration services for commercial passengers. Locals sometimes use the runway for walking or cycling.
• Absence of Parking and Transportation Infrastructure: While parking services are advertised by third parties in anticipation of operations, there is no active infrastructure or established transportation connections for commercial travelers.

In summary, Malda Airport remains a focal point of local aspiration for improved connectivity, but it is currently non-operational for commercial flights and requires significant development to become a functional aviation hub. The desire for flight operations is strong among the local populace, who currently rely on distant airports for air travel.