Rajasthan's Kota-Bundi Greenfield Airport Set to Launch Operations by 2027

Lok Sabha Speaker and Kota-Bundi MP Om Birla confirmed a target date for the Kota-Bundi Greenfield Airport in Rajasthan. The new facility is expected to be operational by 2027, according to assurances from concerned departments. Mr. Birla stated that discussions with aviation services companies have already begun, yielding positive initial responses. The project aims to significantly enhance regional connectivity and support the Hadouti region's economic growth.

Project Scope and Investment

Construction of the new airport is moving forward with tender procedures. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is developing the project. The Union Cabinet had previously approved the airport's development. This approval came with an estimated project cost of Rs 1,507 crore. The state government transferred 440.06 hectares of land to the AAI for the site.

One work order has been issued for a construction package. Mr. Birla mentioned a sanctioned outlay of Rs 10,507 crores for one of the two tenders. However, official government releases verify the overall project cost at the lower figure. One major tender for airside works was valued at approximately Rs 467.67 crore.

Technical Specifications

The new Kota-Bundi Greenfield Airport is designed for modern commercial operations. It will feature a 3,200m x 45m runway. This infrastructure is suitable for handling Airbus (Airbus) A-321 type aircraft. The terminal building is planned to cover 20,000 sqm. It will have the capacity to handle 1,000 Peak Hour Passengers (PHP). This translates to an annual capacity of 2 Million Passengers Per Annum (MPPA). The existing Kota airport is unable to support large-scale commercial operations.

Expanding Aviation Training Infrastructure

In addition to the new airport, Mr. Birla announced another aviation development. A pilot training institute is proposed for the existing airport in Kota. This initiative aims to expand the region's aviation training capabilities. It will support the growing demand for qualified pilots in India's commercial aviation sector. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) oversees all such training and licensing.

Regional Economic Impact

The new airport is a critical infrastructure project for the Hadouti region. Kota is a major educational and industrial hub in Rajasthan. The new air connectivity will boost the city's famous coaching industry. It will also open up new opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment. Improved access will benefit agro-based industries in the region. The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway also enhances surface connectivity to major markets. Stakeholders view the airport as a milestone for Rajasthan aviation development.

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