The international airport expansion of Coimbatore International Airport is progressing, with a newly drafted master plan detailing key upgrades. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued tenders for building a precast boundary wall, signaling a crucial step toward the much-anticipated development.
The plan includes the construction of a new passenger terminal with 10 Multiple Apron Ramp Systems (MARS), allowing each apron to accommodate either one wide-body aircraft or two narrow-body aircraft. Additionally, the existing airport infrastructure is being upgraded, with 11 old aprons and seven new aprons in various stages of commissioning. To support increasing air traffic, the airport’s runway (05/23), currently 2,990 meters, will be extended to 3,810 meters. This extension, planned for the eastern end, will improve operational capacity.
Beyond runway and terminal expansions, the master plan highlights improved passenger amenities. The project includes a multi-level parking area, food courts, a dedicated bus stand, midscale and upscale hotels, additional taxiways, and enhanced facilities to accommodate growing passenger traffic. A new 60-meter-wide approach road is proposed to connect the terminal to the L&T Bypass on the Salem-Kochi Highway, ensuring better accessibility.
To secure the expansion area, AAI has called for tenders to construct a 16.67 km-long boundary wall, estimated at ₹29.19 crore. This includes 9,063 meters for the operational area and 7,600 meters for the non-operational area. Additionally, a tender has been issued for hiring a land consultant, a crucial step in finalizing the land acquisition process.
Aviation experts are optimistic about the project’s progress. Shyam Mohan Prabhu, an aviation analyst, stated that these tender announcements indicate the final master plan is nearing administrative approval. He also mentioned that tenders for environmental impact assessments are expected soon, paving the way for construction to begin.
As Coimbatore continues to grow as a major economic and industrial hub, the airport’s expansion is seen as a crucial step in improving regional air connectivity and supporting the city’s long-term development.
