Trivandrum Runway Expansion Faces Critical Delay

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport’s runway expansion has stalled due to delays in land acquisition, raising concerns among aviation authorities. The state government has yet to secure the required 22 acres, delaying the development of a Runway End Safety Area (RESA), a critical safety feature mandated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Originally, the DGCA set a September 2024 deadline for RESA development but extended it due to slow progress. A key hurdle is the transfer of 4.5 acres of land owned by BrahMos Aerospace Ltd, which requires approval from the Union Ministry of Defence. The state government has cited this as the primary reason for the delay.

In response, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed Chief Principal Secretary KM Abraham to convene a high-level meeting to resolve the issue. Sources suggest that BrahMos Aerospace, initially hesitant, is now open to transferring the land, pending Union government clearance.

Aviation Secretary KR Jyothilal has urged the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Ltd (TIAL) to expedite approvals. The expansion plan may also require realignment to avoid affecting key defence installations, including the Nirbhaya engine unit.

Additionally, the state government is identifying a new site for the Chackai fire and rescue station, which will be displaced by the expansion. While sections of the Chackai-Shanghumukham Road will be affected, the ITI at Chackai will remain untouched.

Meanwhile, Adani Airport Holdings Ltd, the airport’s private operator, has announced a ₹5,500 crore investment for terminal expansion. However, the runway upgrade—crucial for modernization—remains stalled until the land acquisition issue is resolved.

With rising air traffic, aviation authorities face mounting pressure to expedite the process and ensure the airport’s long-term growth.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.