Industry leaders pitch dual-airport plan for Vizag amid connectivity concerns
The proposed closure of Visakhapatnam International Airport after the commencement of commercial operations at Bhogapuram International Airport in July has raised concerns among air travellers and industry representatives, who are advocating a phased transition with limited operations at both airports for an interim period.
Airport Advisory Committee member and Visakhapatnam Air Travellers’ Association vice-president O. Naresh Kumar said passengers from industrial regions such as Rambilli, Anakapalle, Atchutapuram, and Nakkapalli are likely to face difficulties in reaching Bhogapuram due to inadequate transport connectivity. He noted that the increased travel distance would lead to higher transportation costs and fuel consumption.
Speaking to The Coastal Times, Mr. Kumar said the northern industrial corridor of Visakhapatnam district is witnessing rapid industrial expansion, driven by projects such as the NTPC Green Hydrogen Hub and the proposed integrated steel plant by ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India. He observed that these developments are expected to generate significant growth in passenger traffic in the coming years.
To ease the transition, he suggested continuing a limited number of domestic flight operations from Visakhapatnam airport to destinations including Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Chennai, New Delhi, and Bengaluru by imposing user charges. According to him, this arrangement would help address commuter concerns until connectivity to Bhogapuram improves.
Mr. Kumar further stated that both airports should remain operational until key infrastructure projects, including the proposed six-lane Coastal Corridor and the first phase of the Metro Rail project, are completed. He emphasised that robust road and public transport connectivity would be essential before shifting all flight operations to Bhogapuram.
He also proposed that the GMR Group establish business lounges at major locations across the city as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives and introduce green hydrogen-powered buses to facilitate passenger travel to Bhogapuram Airport.