Bengaluru: A proposed relaxation of building height restrictions around key aviation zones in Bengaluru could unlock fresh real estate supply and improve housing affordability, particularly in the mid-income segment, according to industry experts.
The Karnataka government has approached the Centre seeking a review of existing height norms imposed in areas surrounding Kempegowda International Airport, as well as zones near HAL Airport, Jakkur Aerodrome and Yelahanka Air Force Station. These restrictions, governed by aviation safety regulations, currently limit vertical development in several high-demand corridors.
Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has called for a more balanced regulatory approach, stating that current norms are restricting urban expansion and discouraging efficient land utilisation in a rapidly growing city.
Height Restrictions:A Long-Standing Bottleneck
Under current aviation-linked regulations, building heights are capped based on proximity to flight paths and radar zones. While necessary for safety, these limits have created persistent challenges for developers:
Inability to fully utilise approved Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
Reduced feasibility of high-rise developments
Delays due to multiple clearances and No Objection Certificates (NOCs)
Underutilisation of high-value urban land
As a result, several prime micro-markets, particularly in North Bengaluru, have seen constrained supply despite strong demand driven by infrastructure growth and proximity to employment hubs.
Potential Impact: Supply Boost and Price Stability
A relaxation of norms could significantly alter the city’s real estate dynamics.
Developers would be able to build vertically, unlocking additional housing inventory across segments. This increase in supply is expected to:
Ease upward pressure on property prices
Improve affordability for mid-income buyers
Enhance project viability in premium land parcels
Analysts believe the mid-segment housing category stands to benefit the most, as increased supply could help stabilise pricing in areas that have seen rapid appreciation in recent years.
Key Growth Corridors Likely to Benefit
If implemented, the policy shift is expected to accelerate development in several high-potential micro-markets, including:
Yelahanka
Hebbal
Jakkur
Airport corridor
These areas are already witnessing strong demand due to improved connectivity, upcoming infrastructure projects, and their strategic location near the airport. Relaxed height norms could further enhance their attractiveness for both developers and homebuyers.
A Calibrated Approach Likely
Officials indicate that any easing of height restrictions will be carefully evaluated in consultation with civil aviation and defence authorities. Safety considerations will remain paramount, and a phased or zone-specific relaxation is more likely than a blanket policy change.
The proposal reflects a broader shift toward enabling vertical growth in Bengaluru, aligning with urban planning strategies seen in other major metros. If approved, it could mark a significant step toward balancing infrastructure constraints with the city’s expanding housing needs.
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