Chennai's Second Airport in Parandur Nears Approval, Special Meeting in Delhi Soon.

A special meeting will be held in Delhi within two weeks to grant in-principle approval for Chennai’s second airport at Parandur, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced recently.

The greenfield airport, proposed at an investment of ₹20,000 crore, has already received site clearance. The next step is securing in-principle approval, which will be finalized after due consultations, the minister said while addressing the media in Chennai.

Addressing concerns over land acquisition protests in Parandur, he emphasized that state governments are responsible for selecting project sites and handling land-related issues. “The Centre is keen on expanding aviation infrastructure, but the feasibility study is conducted based on the land provided by the state,” he noted.

The Parandur airport is planned to handle 10 crore passengers annually with two runways, terminal buildings, taxiways, an apron, and a cargo terminal. Meanwhile, ongoing modernization at Chennai airport will expand its capacity from 2.2 crore to 3.5 crore passengers annually over the next seven years.

On other airport projects in Tamil Nadu, Naidu said Coimbatore airport is set for expansion once the state provides the required land. Under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS-Udan), Neyveli, Salem, and Vellore airports are being developed, with an airline expected to begin operations on the Chennai-Vellore route soon. The government is also encouraging Flight Training Organizations (FTOs) at Salem and Vellore to address the growing demand for pilots.

Regarding rising airfares, Naidu stated that ticket prices fluctuate based on demand. The government is in discussions with airlines to ensure affordability, particularly during peak travel seasons.

HBL