Fairfax Eyes Hosur, Chennai for Airport Investments Amid Government Push

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has submitted to the Tamil Nadu government a preliminary feasibility report suggesting two locations at Hosur. One is located 1.5 km away from the existing Taneja Aerospace and Aviation Limited (TAAL) strip, and the other is along Mulug, 15.5 km away from Hosur. A detailed airspace survey is expected to determine the final location. The government aims to finalise the site by the end of April.

Originally, five sites were under consideration, all located within Krishnagiri district. After evaluating the pros and cons, the state narrowed it down to two. The project is estimated to cost ₹400 crore and is part of a broader plan to create a Knowledge and Technology Corridor in the region.

The plan has become controversial because of its closeness only 150 km to Bengaluru International Airport. In the upper house of Parliament, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu replied to questions raised by AIADMK MP Thambidurai, recognizing the requirement for cooperation by the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka governments as well as the Ministry of Civil Aviation to overcome jurisdictional issues. “We will take a positive approach,” the Minister assured.

The AAI is also conducting similar studies for a second airport near Chennai, with four sites under review. Both the Hosur and Chennai proposals are being fast-tracked in tandem with the Parandur greenfield airport project.

With strong industrial growth in Hosur and Chennai, the push for new airports aligns with Tamil Nadu’s broader strategy to strengthen regional connectivity and attract global investors.