Could Andhra Pradesh CM Establish a Civil Aviation University in Vizag?

Synopsis
Andhra Pradesh's CM proposes a Civil Aviation University in Visakhapatnam, aiming to boost aviation education and connectivity in the region. This plan could significantly enhance the state's aviation infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to cultural heritage and economic growth.
Key Takeaways
- Proposal for a Civil Aviation University in Visakhapatnam.
- Improved connectivity from major airports.
- Ongoing construction at Vijayawada and Rajamahendravaram airports.
- Interest from Qatar Aviation Fund in Bhogapuram Airport.
- Increased operational activity at Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam airports.
Amaravati, June 11 (NationPress) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu proposed on Wednesday that the Union Civil Aviation Ministry assess the feasibility of launching a Civil Aviation University in Visakhapatnam.
During a review meeting at the Secretariat, he emphasized the necessity of improving connectivity from airports in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and throughout the state to both domestic and international destinations.
While evaluating the construction progress of the Vijayawada International Airport terminal, Union Minister for Civil Aviation K. Ram Mohan Naidu, senior ministry officials, and the Chairman of the Airports Authority of India participated virtually.
CM Naidu expressed a desire for the terminal’s architectural design to be visually captivating and distinct. He instructed airport authorities to incorporate various elements, such as Kuchipudi dance, Kondapalli toys, Amaravati emblems, and Lepakshi art, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh into the design.
Furthermore, he provided explicit instructions regarding the terminal building's construction, including the ramp connection to the national highway.
The Chief Minister also assessed the progress of terminal developments at Kadapa and Rajamahendravaram airports.
Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu updated the CM that technical feasibility studies are underway for new airports in Dagadarthi, Kuppam, and Palasa (in Srikakulam district). He stated that land surveys for the proposed Amaravati Airport are ongoing and a report from a RITES team will be submitted soon. If land pooling is finalized, the project could begin within two years.
He highlighted that operations at Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam airports have surged by nearly 40%, with heightened interest from operators to expand connectivity from Vijayawada, Tirupati, Rajamahendravaram, and Kurnool airports.
The Minister also announced that TruJet plans to initiate services from Visakhapatnam to various destinations starting in October, with international flights between Vijayawada and Singapore, as well as Tirupati and Muscat, commencing soon. Additionally, seaplane operations are expected to launch after September.
He further noted that the Qatar Aviation Fund has shown interest in investing in the Bhogapuram Airport project.