Bengaluru Second Airport Location: Tumakuru-Chitradurga Stretch To Be Explored

The Karnataka government is exploring the possibility of setting up a second airport closer to Bengaluru to accommodate the city's projected growth and bolster air-travel infrastructure. The Tumakuru-Chitradurga stretch is among the potential locations being considered for this development, aimed at complementing the existing Kempegowda International Airport.

"The state is in the preliminary stages of identifying suitable sites for the new airport," said Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil. He highlighted the precedent set by cities like Mumbai and Goa, where multiple airports have been successfully implemented within close proximity.

However, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) guidelines typically discourage greenfield airports within 150km aerial distance of an existing one. If permitted, clear guidelines are established for traffic distribution between the two airports.

Minister Patil emphasized the need to evaluate the air-traffic feasibility around the proposed Bengaluru second airport. The selected location must offer ample land for a fully operational airport and allow for future expansions.

Proposal and HAL Airport Discussions

Officials from the Infrastructure Development Department indicated that this decision was communicated during discussions on a 60-year lease extension with the Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL), responsible for Kempegowda International Airport. Reportedly, BIAL has shown interest in this proposal.

While initially considering the reopening of the old HAL airport, concerns about limited space for expansion prompted the government to explore alternative options.

Tumakuru-Chitradurga Stretch and Location Challenges

Proposals are under scrutiny primarily in the Tumakuru-Chitradurga stretch, although several locations have been deemed unfeasible due to existing airports, potential expansions, or traffic considerations.

The state government is committed to finding a suitable location for the second airport and working through any challenges that may arise. A second airport will have a significant impact on the growth and development of Bengaluru, making it a more accessible and connected city.