BENGALURU: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is set to submit its report to the Karnataka government within the next two to three days on the proposed location for Bengaluru’s second international airport, Infrastructure Development and Industries Minister M. B. Patil said on Thursday.

AAI team inspected potential sites in April

An AAI expert committee had visited Karnataka in April to examine multiple potential sites for the new airport. The move comes as the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) continues to witness record passenger growth, with projections suggesting it may reach saturation by 2035.

“The AAI is expected to submit its report within the next two to three days. Once we receive it, the findings will be placed before the Cabinet for discussion before a final decision is taken,” said M. B. Patil.

Tumkur and South Bengaluru among proposed locations

The minister revealed that several locations have been proposed for the new airport, including Tumkur and areas in South Bengaluru. “MLAs from North Karnataka have suggested Tumkur as a suitable site, while others have recommended South Bengaluru,” Patil said, adding that the final choice will depend on factors such as airspace feasibility, land availability, and connectivity.

Cabinet to decide after reviewing AAI report

Once the AAI report is tabled, the Karnataka Cabinet is expected to review its recommendations along with additional studies on environmental and infrastructure impact before approving the location. The state government has emphasised that the new airport project will aim to support long-term regional development and ease congestion at the existing Kempegowda facility.

Need for a second airport

Officials said that the rising passenger and cargo traffic at KIA, coupled with rapid urban expansion, has made it necessary to identify an alternative airport site early. Bengaluru currently handles over 37 million passengers annually and is projected to exceed 50 million by the next decade.

A second international airport, likely to be operational by the mid-2040s, is expected to serve as a critical hub for business, tourism, and logistics, complementing the existing one at Devanahalli.