Parandur Airport Critical for Tamil Nadu’s $1.5 Trillion Economy Vision, Say Industry Leaders

As debates continue over the future of the proposed greenfield airport at Parandur, industry leaders have warned that delaying the project could have long-term implications for Tamil Nadu’s economic ambitions. According to experts, the state’s target of becoming a $1.5 trillion economy by 2036 will require significant investments in infrastructure, with aviation capacity emerging as one of the most critical requirements.

Speaking at a panel discussion organised by Super Chennai, participants argued that the proposed airport should be viewed not merely as an aviation project but as a strategic economic asset capable of supporting industrial growth, global investments and high-value exports.

A recurring concern raised during the discussion was the growing pressure on Chennai International Airport. While recent expansion works have increased capacity, experts believe the facility could approach its operational limits within the next few years. They cautioned that infrastructure planning must anticipate future demand rather than react after capacity constraints begin affecting growth.

Former IAS officer K. Phanindra Reddy noted that major infrastructure projects require long gestation periods and should be planned well in advance. He pointed out that Chennai airport’s expanded capacity is expected to face increasing pressure by the end of the decade, making a second airport a necessity rather than an option.

Industry representatives also highlighted the importance of air cargo in supporting sectors such as electronics, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing and technology exports. As Tamil Nadu continues to attract investments in these industries, efficient air connectivity will become increasingly important for global supply chains and business operations.

Former aviation executive Vijay Gopalan observed that Chennai once held a strong position among India’s leading aviation hubs but lost ground as competing cities expanded airport infrastructure and improved connectivity. He said future investments in artificial intelligence, electronics and knowledge-driven industries would increasingly depend on world-class transport infrastructure.

The proposed Parandur airport is also expected to benefit from its proximity to emerging industrial corridors, the Chennai-Bengaluru Expressway and planned transport networks. Industry bodies believe the project could trigger the development of a new economic zone, generating employment, attracting multinational investments and strengthening Tamil Nadu’s position as one of India’s leading industrial destinations.