Karnataka Industries Minister M B Patil announced on August 5 that consulting firms IDeCK (Infrastructure Development Corporation Karnataka Limited) and BCG (Boston Consulting Group) have identified seven potential sites for Bengaluru’s proposed greenfield airport. This new airport is intended to serve as the city’s second aviation hub, addressing future growth needs.
IDeCK, a joint venture between the Government of Karnataka, IDFC Foundation, and HDFC, provided consulting expertise for the project. BCG shared insights from their experience with Navi Mumbai’s airport during a recent presentation. Initially, nine sites were considered, but two were excluded after a feasibility study.
Patil explained that an application detailing the seven locations will be submitted to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which will assess each site based on factors such as passenger density, connectivity, industrial growth, cargo potential, and environmental considerations. The final decision will account for these aspects to ensure the best location is selected.
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, also overseeing Bengaluru City Development, mentioned that the second airport is expected to be completed by 2033. Among the shortlisted sites are Harohalli in Kanakapura Taluk and Dabaspet in Nelamangala Taluk, with additional sites near Tumakuru, Koratagere, Kunigal, Huliyurdurga, and Malavalli.
The proposed airport is planned to span 4,500-5,000 acres and handle up to 100 million passengers annually. It is seen as essential to alleviate capacity constraints at Kempegowda International Airport, which is expected to reach its limits by 2035.