Rameswaram Airport Proposal Gains Momentum as AAI Begins Pre Feasibility Study

The proposed Rameswaram airport project has taken a significant step forward with the Airports Authority of India initiating its pre feasibility study in Ramanathapuram district. The study marks an important milestone for Tamil Nadu as the state pushes to enhance air connectivity for one of its most important spiritual and tourism destinations. Officials from the Airports Authority of India recently inspected two shortlisted locations, one near Uchipulli and the other near Keelakarai, to assess their suitability for the new aviation facility.

According to early assessments, both sites have been found feasible for airport development. The Uchipulli site is located closer to key regional transport points and offers better accessibility for travellers heading to the popular Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram. It is roughly forty kilometres from the temple and about half an hour from the Ramanathapuram Railway Station. However, this site comes with an important requirement. Since it is located near the Indian Navy’s INS Parundu air station, formal approval from the Navy will be necessary before further progress can be made.

The second site near Keelakarai is also considered viable but is located farther from the temple, requiring nearly an hour and a half of travel. It is, however, conveniently positioned near the railway station and offers adequate land availability. The state government is studying both options carefully as it continues to evaluate nearly six hundred acres of land for the project.

Once finalised, the proposed airport is expected to transform connectivity to Rameswaram, one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in India. Better air access is likely to boost tourism, improve travel convenience for devotees, and create new economic opportunities for the region. Local businesses, hospitality operators and travel service providers are expected to benefit significantly once the airport becomes operational.

With the pre feasibility study now underway, stakeholders anticipate clearer direction on the final site and project timeline in the coming months. The airport is seen as a strategic investment that aligns with Tamil Nadu’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regional infrastructure and attract higher tourist footfall to its heritage locations.