In a major step towards addressing Bengaluru’s growing aviation needs, the Karnataka government has submitted a proposal to the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, identifying three potential sites for the construction of a second international airport. The move comes as Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) continues to witness exponential passenger growth, necessitating additional infrastructure to accommodate future demand.
The identified locations include two sites along Kanakapura Road, spanning 4,800 acres and 5,000 acres, respectively. The third site is on Kunigal Road in Nelamangala, where approximately 5,200 acres have been earmarked for the project. The selection of these sites was based on factors such as land availability, connectivity, and feasibility for large-scale airport infrastructure.
The Karnataka government’s decision to push for a second airport is driven by Bengaluru’s status as a major IT and business hub, which has resulted in a continuous rise in air traffic. Kempegowda International Airport, despite its recent expansions, faces increasing congestion, making a second airport a necessity in the coming years. Experts have also highlighted the importance of diversifying air traffic to improve accessibility for passengers from different parts of the city and its outskirts.
The proposal will now be reviewed by the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, which will assess the feasibility of the locations before moving forward with further approvals and planning. If approved, the new airport is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing Karnataka’s aviation infrastructure and supporting economic growth in the region.