HAL Airport’s Big Leap: A Gateway to Bengaluru’s Future
Bengaluru’s HAL Airport is on the cusp of a major overhaul, following the approval of a comprehensive master plan by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The redevelopment aims to meet surging air travel demand as the city continues its rapid expansion.
Previously the city’s primary aviation hub until 2008, HAL Airport now accommodates approximately 12 smaller aircraft daily, including those for defense, VIPs, and private use. It boasts a 3,306-meter-long, 61-meter-wide runway, regarded as one of India’s finest. Despite limited current operations, the airport’s potential remains high.
The revamped plan envisions handling up to 4 million passengers annually by 2047, with peak-hour capacity for 2,500 passengers. The first phase will see the terminal area expand from 21,885 sqm to 32,000 sqm. A brand-new terminal with separate levels for arrivals and departures will replace the existing structure. The road outside will double to four lanes, and a multi-level car park accommodating 500 vehicles will be constructed.
Although the runway will remain unchanged, HAL’s upgrade aligns with Bengaluru’s need for enhanced connectivity. The exclusivity clause with Kempegowda International Airport, expiring in 2033, will further enable this transformation.
Opened in 1941 and commencing passenger services in 1946, HAL Airport holds a legacy ripe for revival. With the overhaul’s budget yet to be finalized, improved facilities and its role in the UDAAN scheme promise a brighter future for travelers.
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