Bengaluru’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Airport, which ceased operations in 2008 following the opening of Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), is once again at the center of discussions regarding its reopening. Member of Parliament from Bengaluru South, Tejasvi Surya, has been actively advocating for the revival of HAL Airport and has now shared an update on the matter.
The demand to reopen HAL Airport has gained momentum, particularly as Bengaluru grapples with increasing air traffic and congestion at KIA. Surya has emphasized that the city urgently requires an additional airport, considering its status as India’s IT capital and one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas. While plans for a second international airport in Bengaluru are in progress, he argues that the existing infrastructure at HAL should not go to waste.
HAL Airport, situated within the city, was once a major hub for domestic flights but was shut down after KIA was inaugurated at Devanahalli, nearly 40 kilometers from the city center. Since then, HAL Airport has primarily been used for military and chartered flights, while commercial operations remain suspended.
Surya has called for the immediate reopening of HAL Airport to ease the burden on KIA and improve connectivity within Bengaluru. He has also indicated that discussions with relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Civil Aviation and airport operators, are underway to explore the feasibility of resuming commercial flights. However, challenges such as regulatory approvals, agreements with KIA’s operator, and infrastructural readiness need to be addressed before any final decision is made.
With Bengaluru’s air traffic continuing to rise and concerns over travel time to KIA from various parts of the city, the revival of HAL Airport could serve as a critical solution. While no official confirmation has been given regarding its reopening, Surya’s latest update has reignited hopes among passengers and industry stakeholders.