Wings for the Islands: Inside India’s Southernmost Airport Project

India has begun construction of a new airport at the southern tip of Great Nicobar Island, a strategic project intended to strengthen both defence preparedness and civilian connectivity. The airport is designed to handle larger military aircraft, enabling faster response times for defence operations across the Indian Ocean Region.

At present, the nearest major airport—Veer Savarkar International Airport—is located more than 500 km away, limiting the ability to deploy assets quickly. The new airport will be developed in phases under a long-term master plan that factors in projected growth in air traffic, efficient land utilisation, and cost optimisation.

The project has been planned with a strong emphasis on sustainability, aiming to minimise disruption to existing landforms and the natural environment. Once completed, the airport is expected to significantly enhance military readiness while also improving civilian access to the island, reinforcing India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.