Bengaluru’s second airport likely at Nelamangala or Kanakapura Road

Bengaluru is set to get a second airport, with the Karnataka government narrowing down potential sites to Nelamangala and Kanakapura Road. From an initial list of seven locations, these two have been shortlisted, though Industries Minister MB Patil has not confirmed the final selection.

Also read: Tamil Nadu considers new airport in Hosur to boost connectivity

The urgency to finalize the project has intensified, especially with Tamil Nadu pushing forward with its planned airport in Hosur. Officials have identified 4,400 acres of land at both shortlisted sites, each located around 30-35 km from the city. The proposal is being fast-tracked for Union government approval, given that Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) is projected to handle 90 million passengers annually by 2033.

While Home Minister G Parameshwara had advocated for Vasantha Narsapura near Dabbaspet, it is now considered more suitable for Tumakuru due to its proximity to KIA. The state government believes a second airport at Nelamangala or Kanakapura Road would better serve passengers from Bengaluru’s southern and western regions.

To accelerate development, officials are considering involving Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), which operates KIA. This move could bypass the non-compete clause restricting new airports until 2033.

Officials warn that delaying the project could allow Hosur to emerge as Bengaluru’s de facto second airport, potentially diverting air traffic to Tamil Nadu. Swift action is seen as crucial to maintaining Karnataka’s aviation advantage.