Will Bengaluru’s New Second Airport Revolutionize Air Travel and Connectivity by 2033?

Thursday, July 11, 2024

The Karnataka government has stressed the urgent need for a second airport in Bengaluru, a rapidly expanding global metropolis. Minister for Infrastructure, MB Patil, confirmed on Wednesday that constructing a second airport for the city is a definite plan. Currently, the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), which operates Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), has stipulated that no new international airport should be built within a 150 km radius until 2033. Despite this, beginning the planning and development process now could see the new airport ready by 2033, aligning with these stipulations.

Potential Sites for the New Airport

Several potential sites are under evaluation, including Kanakapura Road, Mysuru Road, Magadi, Doddaballapura, Dabaspet, and Tumakuru. Areas like Sarjapura and Kanakapura Road are strong contenders if passenger load is the primary consideration. These locations are well-suited to handle the expected high volume of passengers. If connectivity to the existing KIA is prioritized, Tumakuru and Dabaspet are leading candidates due to their better connectivity options, making them ideal for facilitating smooth travel between the two airports. A high-level committee will ultimately decide on the location of Bengaluru’s second airport.

Site Selection Criteria

The selected site must be free from geographical impediments such as hills, rivers, seas, or high-rise buildings. Additionally, robust connectivity through state and national highways, rail, and metro networks is essential to ensure the airport’s accessibility and efficiency. Approximately 4,500-5,000 acres of land will be required for the proposed airport to accommodate its infrastructure and facilities. Ecological considerations will also be crucial when deciding on the airport’s location.

Current Capacity and Future Projections

Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is currently the third-busiest airport in India, after Mumbai and Delhi. It has an annual capacity of handling 52 million passengers and 0.71 million tonnes of cargo. Planned expansions could increase these figures to 110 million passengers and 1.10 million tonnes of cargo. However, the airport is projected to reach its maximum handling capacity by 2035, with no further scope for runway expansions due to existing limitations. The Tamil Nadu government’s decision to build an airport at Hosur, following Karnataka’s initiation of talks for a second airport in Bengaluru, is not expected to impact Karnataka’s plans. Both states are working independently to address their respective infrastructural needs.

Comparison with Other Indian Cities

Other major Indian cities, such as Mumbai and Delhi, have established second airports located 35-40 km from the city center. Bengaluru could adopt a similar approach, ensuring that the new airport will facilitate growth and enhance the city’s livability. The exclusivity clause with BIAL, which restricts the construction of another airport within a 150 km radius, expires in 2033. Initiating the planning process now ensures that the second airport can be operational by then, meeting the growing demand for air travel in Bengaluru.

Global Impacts on Travelers

The construction of a second airport in Bengaluru is anticipated to have significant global impacts on travelers.

• Increased Capacity: The new airport will handle an additional 100 million passengers annually, significantly easing congestion at KIA.
• Enhanced Connectivity: Improved connectivity between the two airports will facilitate smoother travel for international and domestic passengers.
• Economic Growth: The new airport is expected to boost the local economy, creating numerous job opportunities and fostering business growth.

Bullet Points:

• Global Reach: The new airport will cater to a broader range of international flights, making Bengaluru a more accessible destination.
• Tourism Boost: Enhanced infrastructure will likely attract more tourists, further cementing Bengaluru’s status as a global metropolis.

The Karnataka government’s proactive steps towards establishing a second airport in Bengaluru by 2033 are poised to significantly enhance the city’s infrastructure, cater to the growing demand for air travel, and have substantial global impacts on travelers. With careful planning and strategic location selection, the new airport will play a crucial role in supporting Bengaluru’s continued growth and development.

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