Coastal Karnataka's Airport Debate: New Greenfield Projects vs. Expanding Mangaluru International
In coastal Karnataka, the demand for a new greenfield airport has intensified significantly, with Belthangady and Padubidri-Yermal emerging as key proposed sites. This push comes even as persistent questions linger over whether the Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) is fully utilising its existing capacity, sparking a heated debate among stakeholders.
Proponents Argue for Enhanced Connectivity and Economic Growth
Supporters of the new airport projects, including prominent political and religious leaders, contend that additional airports would drastically reduce travel time for residents in northern parts of Udupi district, such as Kundapur and Byndoor. Currently, these communities depend heavily on MIA for air connectivity, facing long journeys to access flights.
They argue that new facilities could also strengthen tourism, trade, and industrial growth, positioning the coastal belt for faster economic development. The proposal at Padubidri-Yermal has gained particular visibility, with Udupi-Chikmagalur MP Kota Shrinivasa Poojary actively taking it up with Union civil aviation minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu.
Separately, a mini airport has been proposed in Dharmasthala, targeting around 100 acres to improve access for pilgrims visiting the revered Shree Kshetra Dharmasthala, highlighting the region's diverse needs.
Critics Question Timing and Cost Amid MIA's Potential
However, aviation observers and some local stakeholders have raised concerns about the timing and cost of building new airports. They point out that MIA still has considerable room to expand its services, questioning the necessity of immediate greenfield projects.
Currently, MIA operates about 50 aircraft movements per day with an average daily footfall of roughly 6,000 passengers. In earlier years, when Jet Airways was operational, the airport handled more than 80 aircraft daily, suggesting that higher traffic levels are achievable under favourable market conditions.
MIA's long-term projections further fuel this debate. The airport aims to handle 6 million passengers per annum by 2035 and up to 18 million by 2070, targets that would require sustained route growth and significant infrastructure upgrades.
Calls for Clarity on MIA's Future Plans
A senior IT industry executive emphasised, "The need for a new airport can only be decided when MIA discloses its future plans, including whether it intends to scale up operations and how many flights can be operated daily with available facilities." This call for early disclosure aims to enable timely and informed planning for the region's aviation infrastructure.
Aviation enthusiasts have also highlighted critical gaps in last-mile connectivity, urging stronger public transport links to MIA from across the region. They note that pending upgrades, such as the acquisition of 33 acres required for runway safety enhancements, must be addressed to maximise existing capacity.
Political Perspectives and Future Directions
A political representative noted that while demand exists for an airport in Yermal, it might not materialise immediately due to MIA's relative proximity and accessibility by road. Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta stated that planning for another airport should be guided by MIA's future strategies.
"We will soon seek answers from competent authorities regarding MIA's future plans, prioritising passenger safety and convenience," he said, underscoring the need for a coordinated approach to aviation development in coastal Karnataka.
