Phase II of Chennai airport modernisation soon.

The Phase II modernisation of Chennai airport that is estimated to cost ₹2,500 crore is expected to begin by the end of the year, chairman of Airports Authority of India (AAI) Guruprasad Mohapatra said recently. It will take about three years to complete the project.

Mr. Mohapatra said AECOM, a global management consultant, has been given the task of creating a blueprint for the modernisation project. “They have given an initial plan which has been sent to the AAI board for approval,” he added. This expansion plan will increase the aircraft movement from 32 to 40 per hour and the passenger capacity of terminals from 18 million to 30 million.

Airport director G. Chandramouli said 15 acres are needed for approach lights and 62 acres each for construction of a parallel taxiway and construction of hangar.

THE HINDU