Will Hosur Airport near Bangalore Be Functional Any Time Soon?

As of late 2023, the status of Hosur Airport near Bangalore remains uncertain. The airport, intended to enhance connectivity in the region, has experienced significant changes since its initial proposal. However, recent announcements by the Central government have led to a dire change in its future prospects.

Changes in the Development of Hosur Airport

The Central government announced the cancellation of the Hosur Airport development plan last week, a decision driven by the logic that the region is within a 150 km radius of Kempe Gowda International Airport in Bangalore. This rationale also implies that other airports in adjacent regions, such as Mysore and Hassan, might similarly be considered for the same reasoning. The move has been met with controversy as the logic behind the decision seems inconsistent, given that growing cities should benefit from infrastructure development.

Tamil Nadu's Resilient Approach to Air Connectivity

In response to the cancellation, the Tamil Nadu government has stated its intention to establish a domestic airport in Hosur. The decision underscores the growing importance of Hosur as an industrial hub. Hosur, located 40 km from Bangalore, is part of the state's strategy to enhance regional connectivity through low-cost air services.

Key Steps Towards a Functional Airport

The Tamil Nadu government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Civil Aviation to launch low-cost air services. Under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) Scheme, the airport in Hosur will aim to connect smaller cities and towns, which may limit its primary functions compared to what was originally anticipated.

The next crucial step involves obtaining approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for the airport to become operational. Additionally, TIDCO (Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited) is in the process of conducting comprehensive studies to identify the most suitable site for the airport. This includes assessing air traffic patterns and potential demand to ensure the project's viability.

Future Prospects and Challenges

While the UDAN scheme aims to improve regional connectivity, the demand from the vicinity of Bangalore for flights to and from major metropolises such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad poses a significant challenge. The Hosur airport, once operational, may struggle to meet these demands due to its smaller capacity.

The Tamil Nadu government’s ambitious plans to set up the airport in Hosur indicate a forward-looking approach to regional development. By focusing on creating a platform for smaller destinations, the airport may become a key player in regional aviation, thereby supplementing the connectivity provided by the Kempe Gowda International Airport.

Conclusion

The future of Hosur Airport remains doubtful given the current circumstances. However, with the Tamil Nadu government’s commitment and the ongoing feasibility studies, there is hope that the airport can fulfill its intended role in the region's growth and connectivity.

For the most current information and updates, readers are encouraged to follow official announcements and news updates on the developments surrounding Hosur Airport.