Chennai Airport Set to Clear Obstacles for Second Runway Optimization
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Synopsis
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has committed to removing obstacles at Chennai International Airport's second runway, located in Kolapakkam, to improve flight operations and capacity. Local officials have pledged to minimize disruptions to residents during this process.
Key Takeaways
- AAI plans to clear obstacles affecting the second runway.
- Improved operations expected once the runway is fully functional.
- Local authorities involved in the obstacle removal process.
- Efforts have already led to the removal of 140 barriers.
- Continued collaboration is necessary to address new obstructions.
Chennai, Feb 10 (NationPress) The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced plans to eliminate all barriers preventing the full utilization of the second runway at Chennai International Airport, especially in the Kolapakkam region.
The clearing operations will be executed while ensuring minimal disruption to the local population.
As per AAI sources, once the second runway becomes fully operational, Chennai Airport will have the capacity to manage a higher volume of flights, including larger aircraft, thus enhancing its overall operational capacity.
During a meeting of the advisory committee for Chennai International Airport, led by Member of Parliament and former Union Minister T.R. Baalu, this matter was discussed extensively.
The meeting saw participation from MPs, MLAs, airport officials, and District Collectors from Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Chennai, alongside representatives from local governance.
Chennai Airport currently operates two runways: the primary runway, spanning 3.66 km, can accommodate large aircraft, while the secondary runway, at 2.89 km, is designated mainly for smaller aircraft and private jets.
Located near Kolapakkam village, the secondary runway faces operational challenges caused by various obstacles, including tall structures, trees, mobile towers, and power pylons, all of which threaten flight safety.
The AAI has been advocating for local authorities to tackle these issues for several years. A survey by the AAI pinpointed 509 obstacles that hinder the effective operation of the second runway.
Since then, concerted efforts have led to the removal of 140 obstacles, which included 133 coconut trees and seven mobile towers.
To avoid future obstructions, the AAI has offered free saplings of shorter coconut trees to residents and instructed property owners to lower the heights of their buildings by about two meters.
By 2023, the count of obstacles had decreased to 180. However, a survey conducted in 2024 revealed an increase to 278, attributed to the addition of 53 new mobile towers, tall trees, new constructions, and even 18 airport-related structures.
The AAI has called on district authorities and local bodies to hasten the removal of these hindrances.
If the second runway achieves full functionality, Chennai Airport will be able to accommodate more flights and permit the landing of larger aircraft, greatly enhancing its operations.
MPs, MLAs, District Collectors, and local government representatives present at the meeting committed to taking necessary actions to eliminate air traffic obstacles while minimizing disturbances to residents.
