The Centre has granted in-principle approval for the greenfield airport at Parandur, paving the way for Tamil Nadu to initiate the tendering process for Chennai’s second airport.

Located approx. 42 km from Chennai’s existing Meenambakkam airport, the Parandur airport will span 2,172.72 hectares. It is set to feature two parallel runways and three midfield terminal buildings, with infrastructure designed for Code 4F aircraft and aligned with future global aviation standards. Phase I will cover a terminal area of 3,51,380 sq. mtrs. The airport is to be developed in phases, with Phase I estimated to cost Rs 11,445 crore out of a total project value of Rs 27,400 crore.

The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) had submitted the application for in-principle approval in September 2024. The proposal underwent a thorough seven-month review process, involving detailed clarifications and technical queries, before receiving clearance.

TIDCO plans to begin construction by January 2026 and complete Phase-I within two years. The Parandur facility is envisioned to significantly boost the region’s aviation infrastructure, catering to increasing air traffic and reinforcing Chennai’s status as a key aviation hub in South India. The project marks a significant step in the state’s broader push to enhance its transportation infrastructure and support economic growth. With this approval, the tendering process is expected to begin shortly, aligning with the state’s goal to operationalise the new airport within a strategic timeframe.