Bangalore's Aviation Future: Second Airport and BLR's Expansion Plans

Bangalore's Aviation Future: Second Airport and BLR's Expansion Plans


Bangalore's Aviation Future: Second Airport and BLR's Expansion Plans

As Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) continues to grow as one of India's busiest aviation hubs, a new phase of expansion is underway to meet the city's future needs. From a new airport in the south to the massive expansion of BLR's own terminals, Bangalore's aviation landscape is set for a dramatic transformation.

The Second Airport for Bengaluru: What We Know

Discussions about a second airport for Bangalore are no longer just talk. With BLR's current capacity reaching its limits, the Karnataka government has taken active steps to find a solution.

  • Location: Officials have considered several sites, with three potential locations being shortlisted: Kaggalipura, Harohalli, and Chikkasolur. These are all located about 25 to 45 km from the city center, primarily along Kanakpura Road and the Nelamangala-Kunigal Road.
  • Capacity & Timing: While the plans are still in the early stages, the state government has a clear vision. However, due to a legal agreement, a second airport cannot begin construction before 2033. This long-term planning shows a strategic approach to managing the city's long-term air travel needs.

BLR's Master Plan: Terminal 3 and 100 Million Passengers

Even with the possibility of a second airport, BLR is pushing ahead with its own ambitious expansion plan, with an approved investment of USD 2 billion.

  • Terminal 3 (T3): A key part of the plan is to reserve space for a third terminal. While T3 is still in the planning stages, its future construction is intended to help the airport serve more than 100 million passengers each year.
  • Beyond T3: This plan also includes a major refurbishment of the existing Terminal 1 and a new automated people mover system to connect all the terminals, creating a seamless experience for travelers.

Behind the Scenes: Major Operational Enhancements

To support this massive growth, several key infrastructure projects are underway to improve efficiency.

  • Western Crossfield Taxiway (WCT): Construction has begun on this key project, which will connect the airport's existing runways. The WCT is planned to be operational by early 2027, a change from the previous 2026 timeline. It will significantly reduce taxi times and improve the flow of aircraft.
  • CAT III B ILS: BLR Airport uses advanced CAT III B Instrument Landing System (ILS) on its runways, which allows flights to land safely in very low visibility conditions, such as dense fog.
  • MRO Facility by IndiGo: In May 2025, IndiGo signed an agreement with BIAL to build a significant Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility on 31 acres of land at BLR Airport. This will further cement Bengaluru’s role as an aviation hub.

Unique Features and Key Events

Beyond new construction, BLR Airport is also making headlines for its operational excellence and unique features.

  • Record Profit: In May 2025, Kempegowda International Airport reported its first-ever record profit since opening, showcasing strong financial health and strategic growth.
  • Signature Fragrance: Terminal 2 has its own special scent, "Dancing Bamboo," which aims to make the airport experience more calming and memorable for travelers.

A Future-Ready City

The investments in a potential second airport and the expansion of BLR are a clear sign of Bangalore's commitment to being a world-class aviation hub. These developments will not only enhance travel for residents but also it will attract new businesses and investment to the city. This growth directly impacts the value of nearby properties, making a home in a project like Prestige Evergreen a truly smart and future-proof investment.

For a complete guide to BLR's current terminals, services, and connectivity, click here to return to our main Kempegowda International Airport Guide.

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