Hosur Airport Update: Tamil Nadu Prepares To Build 2 Runways In 2000 Acres

Tamil Nadu is set to construct a new airport just 40 kilometres from Bengaluru, often referred to as Silicon City Valley. The proposed facility, which will feature two runways and span over 2,000 acres, has reached the second phase of site studies, with two locations under consideration.

Locations Under Consideration

As per a report in The Hindu, one site is located 1.5 kilometres from the private airstrip operated by Taneja Aerospace and Aviation Limited (TAAL), while the other is near Ulagam, east of Hosur and north of Shoolagiri.

The initiative stems from the Tamil Nadu government's announcement in June to build an airport in Hosur, part of the Krishnagiri district, known for its automotive and manufacturing hubs. For residents in Bengaluru's southern areas, the Hosur airport could offer a quicker alternative for air travel.

In September, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) conducted feasibility studies for five potential sites: TAAL, a location 1.5 kilometers south of Hosur airstrip, another near Ulagam, a third near Thogarai Agraharam, and two more near Ulagam and Dhasapalli, the report added.

Project Approvals

Following the feasibility analysis, AAI submitted a draft report detailing the advantages and challenges of each site. Based on these findings, the Tamil Nadu government shortlisted two sites and has now tasked AAI with a more detailed examination. This report is expected within two months.

"Once the site is decided, the next step will be land acquisition for the project," the English daily quoted a source as saying. The project will also require approvals from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and the Ministry of Defence.

Discussions have also been held with Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). However, given BIAL's agreement with the central government that prohibits the establishment of any international airport within a 150-kilometer radius until 2033, the potential for collaboration remains uncertain.

Hosur, traditionally known as an automotive hub, is rapidly evolving into a center for advanced manufacturing, electronics, and electric vehicles. The greenfield airport is expected to enhance Tamil Nadu's industrial footprint and contribute to the formation of a twin-city ecosystem with Bengaluru.