Discover the top three locations being considered for Bengaluru's 2nd airport. Get the latest updates on the race to expand the city's aviation infrastructure.
Bengaluru, also referred to as the "Silicon Valley of India," is witnessing fast-paced infrastructure growth to cater to increasing economic and population needs. With air traffic increasing and Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) reaching saturation point, the demand for a second international airport has become imperative. The Karnataka government has already identified possible sites for this mega project with the aim of maintaining Bengaluru's position as a global business and technology hub.
Table of Contents
- Why Bengaluru Needs a Second Airport
- Shortlisted Locations for Bengaluru’s Second Airport
- Impact on Travelers
- Infrastructure and Development Challenges
- Economic Impact of the Second Airport
- Timeline and Future Plans
- Conclusion
Why Bengaluru Needs a Second Airport
The increasing passenger and cargo traffic at KIA highlights the necessity of a second airport. With a 9% growth in air traffic in 2024, KIA handled 40.73 million passengers, and projections indicate that demand will continue to rise. Additionally, the exclusivity clause that restricts the development of another airport within 150 km of KIA will expire in 2033, making way for a second facility.
| Current Airport | Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) |
| Reason for Expansion | Rising passenger and cargo demand |
Minimum Land Requirement | 4,500 acres |
Shortlisted Locations for Bengaluru’s Second Airport
Proposed Locations | District |
Kanakapura Road | Bangalore Urban |
Kanakapura Road | Ramanagara |
Kunigal Road | Nelamangala |
The Karnataka government has shortlisted three possible sites, each with a different set of advantages:
1. Kanakapura Road
Location: It is located in Bangalore Urban district, near the city center.
Land Area: Around 4,800 acres.
Connectivity: Highly connected to Kanakapura Road, NICE Road, and Metro extensions.
Major advantages: Being close to key business centers, residential neighborhoods, and schools.
Potential Challenges: Increased land acquisition cost because of current developments.
2. Kanakapura Road
Location: Ramanagara district, around 50 km from Bengaluru city.
Land Area: Around 5,000 acres.
Connectivity: Nearby Harohalli, 10 km from Green Line metro terminal station.
Key Benefits: Possible development of new smart cities, easy connectivity to Mysuru Road and NH275.
Potential Challenges: Green clearance since forest pockets are nearby.
3. Kunigal Road (Nelamangala District)
Location: Along Kunigal Road in Nelamangala.
Land Area: About 5,200 acres.
Key Benefits: Ideal for industrial and cargo-related operations, decongesting KIA.
Potential Challenges: Distance from core city areas might reduce passenger convenience.
Connectivity: Well-linked via Tumkur Road, NH75, and NICE Road.
As per the protocol, the Ministry will send a team of Airports Authority of India (AAI) officials to inspect the locations before taking a call on the location for the second airport. Based on their report, a detailed financial viability study would be conducted, sources in the Ministry said.
The state government also informed the Ministry that the three locations are within a radius of 50 km from the city center of Bengaluru and have excellent connectivity by road in the form of national highways. The Ministry also feels that the airport built with.The Ministry is also of the opinion that any airport built in a 50-km radius of the city would be financially viable. Earlier, State Heavy Industries Minister M B Patil had said the state would develop a second airport near Bengaluru to m.Earlier, State Heavy Industries Minister M B Patil had stated that the state would construct a second airport around Bengaluru to supplement the demand, as the existing Kempegowda International Airport is on the verge of saturation.At present, the airspace above Bengaluru is used by the Bangalore International Airport Ltd, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and defence authorities at Air Force Station in Yelahanka.The location for the new global airport can be determined only after there is free airspace release, as indicated by a Ministry official.Impact on Travelers
The
second airport will yield major benefits for air travelers:
- Increased frequency of flights and lower fares due to greater capacity
- Improved connectivity within Bengaluru and neighboring cities
- Improved passenger amenities with new facilities
- Decline in congestion at KIA, resulting in reduced wait times
Infrastructure and Development Challenges
While benefits exist, the new airport has some challenges:
- Infrastructure Investment: Road widening, metro lines, and utility expansion are needed
- Land Acquisition: Smooth land acquisition without legal challenges
- Environmental Impact: Performing thorough environmental studies for sustainability
- Airspace Management: Interfacing with current air traffic controllers at KIA, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, and Yelahanka Air Force Base
- In overcoming these challenges, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is in the process of carrying out environmental and feasibility studies prior to establishing the site.
Economic Impact of the Second Airport
The second airport will significantly boost Bengaluru’s economy:
Economic Impact | Details |
Job Creation | Thousands of direct and indirect jobs |
Local Business Growth | Increased commercial investments |
Infrastructure Expansion | Improved connectivity and accessibility |
The project will enhance Bengaluru’s appeal as a global business hub, attracting foreign investments and multinational companies.
Timeline and Future Plans
The second airport will come up within 7-8 years to avert traffic in KIA, which is also set to touch saturation point in 2035.
Timeline | Details |
Construction Period | 7-8 years |
Expected Completion | Before 2035 |
KIA Capacity Projection | 100 million passengers by 2030 |
The government of Karnataka has collaborated closely with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and AAI in a bid to deliver the deadline while keeping processes running smoothly.Conclusion
The development of Bengaluru's second international airport is a game-changer for the city's economy and aviation industry. As Bengaluru consolidates its status as a world technology and business leader, this infrastructural expansion will prove pivotal in sustaining its competitive advantage. With sound planning, investment, and implementation, the second airport will foster connectivity, economic development, and travel convenience for millions.
FAQS
Q.Where are the sites identified for the second airport?
The state government has shortlisted three possible sites: two places along Kanakapura Road close to Harohalli and one on Kunigal Road in Nelamangala.
Q. What is the proposal status?
A formal proposal has been made to the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation for clearance. The process of making a decision is underway.
Q. When will the second airport become functional?
It is expected to be constructed in seven or eight years. Thus, the airport will likely become operational in 2030 or thereafter
