Bihar's Aerial Campaign Revolution: Record 450+ Flights Transform Election Strategy

Patna:

The constant drone of helicopters taking off from Patna airport has become the soundtrack of Bihar's election season. This wasn't merely a typical campaign—it represented an unprecedented aerial race that established a new benchmark in the state's political history.

By the conclusion of the second phase of campaigning, an extraordinary 450 flights had been operated.

As the campaign deadline closed on Sunday evening, the helicopter sounds gradually faded, but they left behind a narrative that has transformed political strategy, electoral influence, and campaign budgeting.

These flights represented more than just transportation. They symbolized politics worth crores of rupees. For campaigns spanning 20 districts, approximately 25 helicopters and 12 chartered aircraft departed daily from Patna airport.

The first phase witnessed roughly 210 flights, while the second phase saw nearly 240.

According to an airport official, prominent political leaders typically arrive in Patna via chartered planes before departing for rallies across different districts by helicopter. Four to five chartered aircraft transport leaders each day.

Chartered jets command fees ranging from Rs 400,000 to Rs 900,000 hourly, depending on the amenities provided.

Single-engine helicopters with capacity for four passengers cost approximately Rs 1.5 lakh per hour. Twin-engine models range from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 4 lakh hourly.

These figures clearly demonstrate that the election battle is being fought not only on land but also in the air, fueled by significant financial resources.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav conducted 16 rallies across Arwal, Rohtas, and Jehanabad on the campaign's final day.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar addressed 84 rallies throughout both phases. He traveled by air to 73 of these events.

Ram Sevak, a 45-year-old farmer from Bettiah, remarked that he had never witnessed so many helicopters before. Though dust swirls when they land, it also illustrates the intense competition for his vote.

Political analyst Dr. Aarti Singh believes this aerial campaigning symbolizes time-efficient, financially-driven politics. While it enables leaders to reach constituents quickly, it can never substitute for dedicated grassroots activism.

While prominent leaders traversed by air, others like Prashant Kishor of Jan Suraaj traveled on foot—a contrast that raises questions about whether stricter regulations on election expenditure are necessary to maintain democratic balance.

Over 37 million voters will participate in this phase. A total of 1,302 candidates are competing, including 136 women.

Notable candidates include BJP's Shreyasi Singh from Jamui and JDU minister Lesy Singh from Dhamdaha, both seeking electoral success this season.