Second Airport for Bengaluru: AAI's Site Inspections Underway
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Synopsis
On April 8, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) officials inspected two proposed sites for Bengaluru's second airport, with a third site visit planned. The government emphasizes transparency and aims to finalize the location based on specific needs, while also enhancing connectivity to regional airports.
Key Takeaways
- Inspection of two shortlisted sites for Bengaluru's second airport.
- Commitment to transparency in site selection by the government.
- Meeting with airline officials to improve connectivity to various cities.
- Focus on upgrading regional airports to international standards.
- Potential for increased flight frequency on the Kalaburagi-Bengaluru route.
Bengaluru, April 8 (NationPress) Senior officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) conducted an inspection of two of the three proposed locations for Bengaluru's upcoming second airport, both situated off Kanakapura Road near the city.
The expert team is set to explore the third designated site along the Nelamangala-Kunigal Road on Wednesday.
After the site evaluations, officials engaged in a discussion with Infrastructure Development Minister M.B. Patil.
During this meeting, a live presentation was delivered to the AAI team, showcasing the necessity for a second airport in Bengaluru, the increasing industrial demand, and the advantages for civilian air traffic.
Minister Patil stressed that the government is dedicated to maintaining utmost transparency in the site selection process for the new airport.
He mentioned that the government aims to finalize the airport's location according to Bengaluru's specific needs, with the final decision hinging on the AAI's report and recommendations.
The AAI delegation comprised General Manager Vikram Singam, Joint General Manager K. Srinivas Rao, Assistant General Manager Manuj Bharadwaj, alongside Senior Manager Sachidanand and Managers Santosh Kumar Bharathi and Amaan Chhipa from the headquarters.
In parallel, to improve air connectivity to six cities including Kalaburagi, Minister Patil convened a meeting with senior officials from various airlines on Tuesday.
RDPR, IT and BT Minister and Kalaburagi District In-charge Minister Priyank Kharge was also in attendance.
The main agenda of the meeting was to enhance flight connectivity to both intra-state and inter-state destinations from Kalaburagi, Mysuru, Bidar, Hubballi, Belagavi, Vidyanagar (Jindal Township), and the newly established Vijayapura Airport, which is prepared for inauguration.
Representatives from major airlines, including IndiGo, Star Air, Air India, Akash, Alliance Airways, and SpiceJet, participated in the discussions.
Both ministers highlighted that while the Kalaburagi-Bengaluru route has strong profit potential, it currently operates only three times a week. They urged airline operators to boost frequency and expand connectivity to additional important destinations across the state. Responding positively, airline representatives assured that measures would be implemented in this regard.
Patil also underscored the necessity to upgrade Hubballi and Belagavi airports to international standards, directing officials to communicate with the Centre regarding this proposal.
"These two airports fulfill the criteria for international status and experience substantial passenger traffic. Currently, travelers from these areas must go to Goa to board international flights. Upgrading these airports will significantly benefit numerous commuters," he stated.
