Karnataka Government Proposes Three Sites for Bengaluru’s Second Airport, Awaits Centre’s Decision

The Karnataka government has submitted a proposal to the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, suggesting three potential locations for a second international airport near Bengaluru. The move aims to address the increasing air traffic at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), which is projected to handle 90 million passengers annually by 2033.

According to reports, two of the proposed sites are along Kanakapura Road, situated in the southern part of Bengaluru, diagonally opposite to KIA. One of these locations falls within Bangalore Urban district, while the other is in Ramanagara district. Among them, a site near Harohalli is approximately 10 km from the last station on the Metro’s Green Line. The first Kanakapura Road location covers 4,800 acres, while the second spans 5,000 acres.

The third proposed site is along Kunigal Road in Nelamangala, where around 5,200 acres have been identified for the project. The state government has assured the central government that at least 4,500 acres will be made available at any of the shortlisted locations to expedite the approval process.

With Bengaluru’s air traffic growing significantly, there is a pressing need for additional airport infrastructure. KIA, the city’s only international airport, has been expanding its capacity but may face operational challenges in the coming years due to increased passenger and cargo movement. A second airport is expected to ease congestion and support the region’s long-term aviation requirements.

The urgency to finalize the location for Bengaluru’s second airport has increased due to Tamil Nadu’s progress in developing an airport in Hosur, which is close to Bengaluru. If Karnataka delays the project, Bengaluru could lose a share of its air traffic to Hosur, impacting passenger and cargo movement within the state.

The Karnataka government is awaiting the Centre’s approval before proceeding with land acquisition and detailed planning. Once a location is finalized, the next steps will include feasibility studies, environmental clearances, and infrastructure planning. Authorities aim to move forward quickly to ensure that Bengaluru’s aviation infrastructure keeps pace with future demand.

The decision on the final site is expected soon, following discussions between state and central authorities.