Explained: What is the Coimbatore International Airport expansion plan, and why is it needed?

Coimbatore International Airport is set for significant expansion and modernisation, with a projected cost of ₹2,200 crore. The project aims to address the growing passenger and cargo traffic, as well as the need for wider aircraft operations. Currently, the airport handles over 34 lakh passengers annually and 15,000 tonnes of cargo, with peak hour passenger footfall exceeding the capacity of its 18,000-square-metre terminal.

An existing runway of 2,990 metres is insufficient for wide-body aircraft needed for long-haul international flights.

The expansion plan involves constructing a modern terminal building of 75,000 square metres, four times larger than the current terminal, and extending the runway to accommodate wide-body aircraft. The new terminal will reflect the cultural heritage of Coimbatore and include various amenities such as an air traffic control-cum-technical building, cargo terminal, new approach road, multiple apron ramp systems, parking areas, hotels, and bus stands.

Land acquisition for the project began over two decades ago, with the State government acquiring over 600 acres. The process faced hurdles due to landowner opposition and court litigation, but substantial progress has been made in recent years. As of August 19, 2026, only 1.77 acres out of the 633 acres required remained pending. The AAI received permission to enter 472.325 acres of land in August 2024 and took possession of 470.17 acres in January 2025.

Interim expansion work is already underway at a cost of ₹13 crore, aimed at handling existing passenger traffic. The Ministry of Civil Aviation aims to complete the overall expansion within five months and by the end of 2028. Further land acquisition is pending to connect the new terminal with the Neelambur bypass of the Salem-Kochi Highway.