This high-growth trajectory by the Andhra Pradesh government in enriching the state’s aviation infrastructure is further enhanced by its proposals for seven new airports, which would boost regional connectivity and spur economic growth. The chief minister, Chandrababu Naidu, recently reviewed progress of these high-priority projects with Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu and Airports Authority of India officials.
The key sites of the proposed airports are strategically spread out across the state, such as in Srikakulam, Tuni-Annavaram, Tadepalligudem, Nagarjuna Sagar, Ongole, Dagadarthi, and Kuppam. As for the Srikakulam airport project, it is already at a completed feasibility study stage and constructing the airport on 1,383 acres through two phases. Land acquisition is actively in progress for the development.
In Dagadarthi, located in the Nellore district, the previous TDP government had earmarked 1,379 acres for an airport, with 635 acres already secured. Due to some delays, the current government is focused on restarting the land acquisition process, especially given the proposed BPCL factory nearby, which is expected to accelerate the project.
The Ongole airport project has identified 657 acres of land, with detailed studies set to follow soon. In Nagarjuna Sagar, plans are in place for an airport on 1,670 acres, while Tadepalligudem will see a new airport built across 1,123 acres. The government has also identified 757 acres between Tuni and Annvaram to establish an airport, strengthening the state’s aviation network.
Anakapalli district is poised to become a key industrial hub alongside the construction of a new airport, and there are ongoing discussions about setting up an airstrip near Sri City, close to Tirupati. The government is also considering the establishment of an aviation university and training centers to foster skilled manpower, while planning for private aircraft parking facilities in the future.
For Kuppam, the government has allocated 683 acres for phase one of the airport project, with another 567 acres for phase two. Feasibility reports have already been prepared, but the project requires clearances from relevant authorities due to its proximity to major airbases and the Bengaluru International Airport.
Meanwhile, the Gannavaram airport is set for a major upgrade, with a new terminal design inspired by Kuchipudi dance and the Amaravati Stupa, showcasing the state’s cultural heritage.
The new airports and all accompanying infrastructure have catapulted the Andhra Pradesh state government into not only upgrading regional air connectivity but also creating new economic opportunities that put the state at a prime position in the growth story of India’s aviation sector.