Growing Support for Bengaluru's Second International Airport in Sira, Tumakuru

There is growing support for building Bengaluru’s second international airport in Sira, which is in Tumakuru district.

Home Minister G. Parameshwara supports the idea. However, Infrastructure Minister M. B. Patil has concerns about whether it will work.

Patil explained that if the airport is built in Sira, it will be a regional airport. It will serve Tumakuru and Chitradurga districts, but not be an international airport for Bengaluru.

Recently, several lawmakers, led by Congress leader T. B. Jayachandra, signed a petition. They want the airport to be in Sira, about 120 km from Bengaluru.

Union Minister V. Somanna also supports the Sira location.

However, the state government is also considering three other locations. These sites are near Harohalli on Kanakapura Road and near Kunigal Road in Nelamangala. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has visited these sites for inspection.

Patil said that if the airport is in Sira, it will not be an international airport for Bengaluru. It will serve the local region instead. Experts will be consulted to study the feasibility of the project.

Parameshwara, who is from Tumakuru, said he would be happy to see the airport in Sira or nearby areas. It would help the region grow.

Patil emphasized that the final decision will depend on whether the land is suitable and if the project is financially viable.

The AAI will submit a feasibility report in about 15 to 30 days. After that, a Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be created. The Chief Minister and the Cabinet will make the final decision.

Patil also mentioned that efforts are being made to give Hubballi and Belagavi airports international status to improve travel options.

The new airport project is expected to be completed by 2031-32. The site selection is expected to be done by 2026.