Karnataka Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil said on October 23 that the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which recently inspected potential sites for a second international airport in the state capital, is expected to submit its report in two-three days.
"After this, the Cabinet will discuss it and take further action," he said.
Speaking to reporters, Patil said that there is a restriction on constructing a second airport until 2033. "However, if the necessary processes are initiated now, the airport can be completed by then. Building an airport takes at least five to six years," he said.
Also, read: Bengaluru's second airport: Karnataka govt shortlists three sites amid ministers' tug-of-war
Moneycontrol had earlier reported that three potential sites- Chudahalli and Somanahalli on Kanakapura Road, and one on Nelamangala–Kunigal Road- were shortlisted. In April 2025, an AAI team visited these locations to conduct a pre-feasibility survey for Bengaluru’s second airport.
Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (KSIIDC) has already paid Rs 1.21 crore to the AAI to undertake the feasibility study. The state has decided to fast-track the proposal in response to Tamil Nadu’s plan to set up an international airport near Hosur, close to the Karnataka border.
"AAI can give the green signal for both sites it has inspected. We can also offer 5,000-6,000 acres of land on one side. But private companies consider factors such as economic viability. I know better than anyone that this is a complicated task," Patil said.
Also, read: Bengaluru’s second airport: Central team to inspect three shortlisted sites on April 8
"Currently, only New Delhi and Mumbai have two airports. We will also consult the companies that developed those airports," he said. Patil added that the Tamil Nadu government is also exploring the possibility of building an airport in Hosur.
Regarding location considerations, Patil said, "MLAs from North Karnataka are advocating for an airport near Tumkur, while others suggest the southern part of Bengaluru. Passenger traffic, industrial needs, and overall convenience will be taken into account. There is no question of arbitrariness in this decision."
The exclusivity clause with Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), which restricts the establishment of another airport within a 150-km radius, expires in 2032-paving the way for a potential second airport by 2033.
It may be recalled that the state government had earlier rejected a proposal for a third runway at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) due to land constraints. Additionally, HAL Airport in the city centre was closed for commercial operations in 2008 when KIA became operational in Devanahalli. Currently, HAL Airport is used exclusively for military, chartered, and VIP flights.
Also, read: Bengaluru's second airport: Chudahalli, Somanahalli, Kunigal Road top locations in race
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