Bengaluru: Even as Tamil Nadu has finalised a site for its proposed international airport in Hosur, Karnataka industries and infrastructure minister MB Patil has reaffirmed that Bengaluru’s second airport project remains firmly on course. He asserted that the city’s second international airport would be operational by 2033, stressing that Tamil Nadu’s decision would not derail Karnataka’s plans.

“We do not intend to change our plan and will go ahead come what may,” Patil told TOI. “If we start preparing now, the second airport could take shape by 2030, with operations beginning by 2033. We expect the Centre to give a go-ahead in the next few weeks.”

Potential sites under evaluation

A team from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) recently inspected three shortlisted sites:

  • Two adjoining land parcels of 4,800 acres and 5,000 acres along Kanakapura Road near Harohalli
  • A 5,200-acre site near Kunigal Road in Nelamangala

The project requires about 4,500 acres in total. Patil said the choice of site would be guided by parameters such as accessibility, passenger load, and cargo potential.

“Based on feedback from AAI, a feasibility report will be prepared,” Patil explained. “A detailed study will follow with the help of expert consultants specialising in airport infrastructure development.”

Growing demand for a second airport

Officials noted that demands for a second international airport in Bengaluru have been growing rapidly, as Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) is nearing saturation. The proposed facility is expected to play a critical role in meeting the city’s long-term passenger and cargo requirements.

The year 2033 holds added significance because the concession agreement with Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL) currently bans the operation of another airport within a 150-km radius of KIA until then.

“Considering the rapid growth of traffic at KIA, a second airport is a necessity,” Patil said, adding that investment was not a concern for the state.

Hosur’s plans not a hurdle

Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu government has finalised land in Shoolagiri taluk between Berigai and Bagalur for the proposed Hosur international airport. The site is just 20 km from the Karnataka border and could potentially attract passengers from south Bengaluru.

Patil, however, reiterated that Hosur’s progress would not affect Karnataka’s project. “Our focus is Bengaluru’s aviation future. The city requires a second airport,” he said.

Conclusion

With feasibility studies underway and demand for air travel surging, Karnataka is pushing ahead with its second airport plan. The facility is expected to become a key aviation hub by 2033, securing Bengaluru’s place as one of India’s busiest air gateways even as neighbouring Tamil Nadu develops its own project.