Following the tragic crash of an Air India Dreamliner in Ahmedabad, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, aviation safety has once again come under the spotlight. This incident has reignited concerns about some of India’s most dangerous airports — those with short runways, extreme geographical challenges, and unpredictable weather that test even the most experienced pilots.
Let’s take a look at five of the most dangerous and challenging airports in India:
With a runway only 3,300 feet long, Baljek Airport was built for small aircraft and remains non-operational today. Nestled amidst picturesque hills, its beautiful yet treacherous terrain poses significant challenges for aviation, earning it a spot on this list despite its limited usage.
Located in the Himalayan foothills, this airport is a crucial access point for tourists. However, landing here requires exceptional precision due to the mountainous terrain and a short 3,691-foot runway. Sudden weather shifts add another layer of complexity for pilots attempting to land or take off.
This high-altitude airport is notorious for cold temperatures, dense fog, and extremely low visibility. Its short runway and rapidly changing weather conditions make it one of the toughest airports in India for flight operations.
Positioned on a narrow strip of land on the Arabian Sea, Agatti Airport connects the Lakshadweep islands to the mainland. With a runway length of just 4,235 feet, fluctuating wind speeds, tidal influences, and very limited maneuvering space make every flight a high-stakes operation.
Constructed during the British era for military purposes, Lengpui Airport now accommodates some commercial flights. However, aging infrastructure, minimal modernization, and its short runway continue to pose a risk for aviation safety.