Karnataka's Minister MB Patil to Visit Delhi for Bengaluru’s Second Airport Approval:

Karnataka's Minister for Large & Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development, MB Patil, is set to visit Delhi soon to discuss and obtain approvals for Bengaluru’s second airport. This visit follows the shortlisting of three potential locations, which have been submitted to the Ministry of Civil Aviation for evaluation. Officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) are expected to inspect the proposed sites before granting approval.

Three Locations Shortlisted for Bengaluru's Second Airport

In February 2024, reports indicated that three sites were shortlisted for the project:

Bidadi (Mysuru Road)
Harohalli (Kanakapura Road)
Solur (Between Nelamangala and Kunigal)

According to MB Patil, the Karnataka government has officially submitted these locations to the Union Civil Aviation Ministry.

Inspection and Approval Process Underway

Patil confirmed that after the legislative assembly session, he will visit Delhi to discuss these proposed sites with the Union government. He emphasized that AAI officials must inspect the locations before final approval is granted. Once feasibility and viability are assessed, the state government will finalize the airport site.

“The proposal for Bengaluru's second airport has been forwarded to the Union government. The Kunigal Road site is approximately 38 km from the city centre, while the Kanakapura Road site has better connectivity due to the Metro, NICE Road, and Mysuru Expressway being in close proximity,” Patil stated.

Connectivity and Feasibility Considered for Site Selection

Patil highlighted that the shortlisted locations have been identified based on proximity and connectivity, ensuring they are within 50 km of Bengaluru. The state will provide the land, but private investors will be responsible for developing the airport under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

“If the location is too far, it will not attract passengers. Investors must be willing to develop the airport, and they will assess feasibility and viability before proceeding,” Patil said.

Bengaluru’s Future Growth and Industrialization in Focus

The decision on Bengaluru’s second airport is being driven by the city’s rapid expansion, industrialization, and job creation needs. Patil assured that site selection will be based purely on merit, without external influences.

“We have planned this new international airport with Bengaluru’s future growth in mind. The final location will be determined objectively, ensuring it aligns with development and infrastructure needs,” he emphasized.