CREDAI Pushes for Chennai’s Second Airport, Says Delay Could Cost Investments and Growth

The Confederation of Real Estate Developers Associations of India (CREDAI) has once again highlighted the urgent need for a second airport in Chennai, warning that delays in expanding the city’s aviation infrastructure could affect economic growth, investments, and global connectivity.

Speaking on the issue, P. Kruthivas, President-Elect of CREDAI Chennai and Managing Director of Pushkar Properties Private Limited, said the debate is no longer about whether Chennai requires a second international airport but about how long the city can afford to delay the project.

According to CREDAI, Chennai is already facing increasing pressure on its existing airport infrastructure. While ongoing expansion works are expected to increase passenger handling capacity to 35 million passengers annually, industry estimates suggest the airport could approach saturation between 2028 and 2032.

Kruthivas pointed out that several international airlines have either reduced services or shifted focus to competing cities due to capacity constraints. He noted that Bengaluru and Hyderabad continue to strengthen their positions as aviation hubs, attracting greater airline traffic and investment opportunities.

CREDAI strongly backed the proposed Parandur Greenfield Airport project, stating that significant progress has already been made, including land acquisition and infrastructure planning. The proposed airport is strategically located along the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor and is expected to benefit from connectivity through the Outer Ring Road and the Chennai Metro Rail Phase II extension up to Thirumazhisai.

The real estate body believes that a second airport will significantly improve Chennai’s ability to attract foreign investments, boost exports, strengthen tourism, and support long-term economic development. Improved air connectivity is also expected to enhance cargo movement and position Chennai as a stronger competitor against global aviation hubs such as Dubai and Singapore.

Industry stakeholders maintain that sustainability concerns must be addressed responsibly, but infrastructure development and economic growth should progress together. With aviation demand expected to rise steadily in the coming years, CREDAI has urged policymakers to expedite the Parandur airport project and secure Chennai’s position as one of India’s leading business and investment destinations.