HAL airport: the last-ditch effort

The onus on retaining civil aviation operations at the HAL airport, even after the new international airport in Devanahalli takes off in April 2008, is back on the State government.
The agreement between Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) says that no airport would be permitted to operate within 150 km from the Devanahalli airport. While government sources say that the chances of a revision are remote, there is a contention that it all depends on how Bangalore’s air passengers mount pressure on the government.
What the experts point out in favour of retaining the airport — the third busiest in India — is its potential to serve as a supplementary airport, operating domestic flights.
Another issue raised by those who endorse the idea of two airports in the City, is the poor connectivity between the City and Devanahalli.
According to aviation experts, the Bangalore market offers enough room for two airports. And they point out that two airports also ensure competition to offer better services.
10/06/07 Deccan Herald

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Categories: Airports Jun 2007, New Jun 2007