Bengaluru’s 2nd International Airport: Proposal To AAI This Week, Sites From Dobbaspet To Harohalli

The Karnataka government plans to submit a proposal for a second airport in Bengaluru to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) this week, according to MB Patil, the state's Minister for Large and Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development.

The announcement, made during the CNBC TV18 and Moneycontrol Global AI Conclave 2024, coincides with Tamil Nadu's acceleration of its Hosur airport project, situated near Bengaluru's Electronics City, a major technology hub.

"We will be sending our proposal to AAI this week," Patil said on November 22. He emphasized that the location of the new airport would be determined based on merit and the city's holistic development, adding, "The decision will consider Bengaluru's needs, its industries, and the city's overall growth."

The minister acknowledged demands from various city MLAs regarding potential locations for the new airport. Suggestions include Dobbaspet, Tumakuru, Bidadi, and Harohalli. However, Patil stressed that the final choice would not be influenced by political pressure but by factors that prioritize the city's long-term development and connectivity.

"Currently, Bengaluru has Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in the north. There's a growing need for a second airport to serve the city's expanding population and industries," he said.

On Tamil Nadu's Hosur airport project, Patil remarked, "That's their decision; I won't comment on it. Our focus is to develop a world-class second airport for Bengaluru. The location will be carefully selected, and I am personally overseeing this project."

The minister also mentioned a clause in Bengaluru's airport agreement that restricts the establishment of another airport within a 150 km radius until 2033 to ensure the viability of KIA. "Once this clause expires, the new airport will become operational," he said.

Prominent leaders, including Home Minister G Parameshwara and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, have pitched locations near Tumakuru and Ramanagara (recently renamed South Bengaluru), respectively. Government sources indicate that areas like Harohalli, Somanahalli, and Bidadi are under serious consideration, particularly as Hosur lies just 25 km from Electronics City.

AAI officials are expected to visit the shortlisted sites for feasibility assessments. The decision will hinge on factors such as passenger density, connectivity, industrial growth, cargo potential, and environmental impact.