CII Urges Meenambakkam Airport Upgrades and New Greenfield Site

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has called for strengthening the Chennai International Airport at Meenambakkam and fast-tracking the identification and development of an alternative greenfield airport site, following the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to drop the proposed Parandur airport project.

CII Southern Region chairman Ravichandran Purushothaman stated that an airport serves as much more than standard transport infrastructure, describing it as a strategic enabler of economic growth, global competitiveness, trade, tourism, investment, and employment.

According to the industry body, the immediate priority for the state should be to significantly enhance the capacity, operational efficiency, and overall passenger experience at the existing airport in Meenambakkam. As Tamil Nadu’s principal international gateway, the Meenambakkam airport plays a vital role in supporting trade, exports, business travel, tourism, and broader regional connectivity.

To meet existing demands, the CII called for capital investments in world-class passenger facilities, expanded cargo infrastructure, and general operational enhancements. It also highlighted the urgent need for dedicated facilities capable of accommodating larger wide-body international aircraft.

At the same time, the industry association stressed that modernising and expanding the Meenambakkam facility would address the region's aviation capacity requirements only in the near and medium term. As Chennai’s industrial, manufacturing, logistics, and services sectors continue to expand, the region will require a second airport to sustain long-term economic momentum and attract new investments.

With the Parandur project no longer being pursued, the CII urged the state government to quickly identify and finalise an alternative site for the greenfield airport after thoroughly evaluating technical, environmental, and economic factors.

Purushothaman emphasised that the new airport initiative must be accorded high priority and executed without delay to bolster regional connectivity and ensure Chennai retains its standing as a leading destination for industry and investment.