9 July 2026 – The State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) military is accelerating efforts to reopen Surbung Airport in Falam town, Chin State, about two months after retaking Falam town from Chin resistance forces.
According to the SSPC military’s Information Team, Deputy Minister for Construction Mr. Myo Myint is leading the restoration project, which the SSPC military says is intended to support regional development, improve transportation, and facilitate the delivery of reconstruction supplies.
The deputy minister visited Surbung Airport on 5 July to inspect its condition and review preparations for reopening.
However, observers have questioned the SSPC military’s stated objectives. Salai Van Sui San, spokesperson for the Institute of Chin Affairs (ICA) organization, said the airport’s reopening should be closely monitored, as it may be intended primarily for the SSPC military’s own logistical and operational use rather than civilian air travel.
Military analyst and Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) Captain Zin Yaw said the SSPC military is likely seeking to project an image of stability and development in Chin State after recapturing several towns. He added that the airport could eventually be used as a commercial hub if major regional highways reopen, but extensive repairs are still required, making a reopening during 2026 unlikely.
According to the SSPC military, the airport’s 6,000-foot runway remains in good condition. However, runway lighting, aviation security equipment, air traffic communication systems, and navigation aids have been damaged. Parts of the airport terminal, air traffic control tower, fire station, and Doppler Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range (DVOR) navigation facility have also sustained damage.
Surbung Airport, located at an elevation of more than 6,000 feet above sea level, successfully conducted test landings during the civilian government in 2020.
Chin allied resistance forces captured both Falam town and Surbung Airport in April 2025, but the SSPC military retook the area in April 2026 following a major offensive supported by airstrikes and heavy artillery. Since then, the SSPC military has launched reconstruction efforts while promoting claims that stability and development are returning to Chin State. – Reporting by Daniel
