Tamil Nadu Seeks New Chennai Airport, Backs Hosur
The Tamil Nadu government is exploring alternative locations for Chennai’s proposed second airport after deciding not to proceed with the Parandur site, while also signalling its intention to pursue the long-planned Hosur airport project despite regulatory challenges.
Chennai Second Airport Search Moves Beyond Parandur
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay recently chaired a review meeting at the Secretariat to examine options for Chennai’s second airport. The government has been considering sites in Chengalpet district as well as possibilities for further expanding the existing Chennai airport at Meenambakkam.
The earlier Parandur project had advanced significantly, with around 1,700 acres acquired and key central clearances secured. However, the project faced sustained opposition over land acquisition, displacement and environmental concerns.
The government has maintained that Chennai still requires additional airport capacity and will identify an alternative location.
Meenambakkam Airport Expansion Under Consideration
Expanding Chennai International Airport is among the options being examined while the search for another greenfield site continues.
Chennai’s growing passenger traffic and Tamil Nadu’s expanding manufacturing economy have increased pressure on the state to develop additional aviation capacity. Selecting a completely new location, however, could require fresh feasibility studies, land acquisition and regulatory approvals, potentially adding several years to the project timeline.
Tamil Nadu Keen to Pursue Hosur Airport
The state government is also determined to move forward with a greenfield airport at Hosur, an important industrial centre near Bengaluru.
The Hosur proposal faces significant hurdles, including restrictions involving controlled airspace and the existing concession framework governing Bengaluru International Airport, which limits competing international airports within a 150-km radius until 2033.
Tamil Nadu is expected to continue discussions with central authorities to resolve these issues and advance the Hosur project.
