The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is undergoing major upgradation that includes the construction of a new apron, new terminal building, technical block, control tower, and new fire station at a cost of Rs 381 crores in order to accommodate the increasing passenger traffic and the demand for better services and connections.
The new terminal building, which is 13500 square metres in size, can accommodate 600 passengers at peak times. With the addition of two aerobridges, car parking spaces, and a new approach road, the structure will be furnished with all the contemporary conveniences for passengers.
The new terminal’s intuitive form, which was inspired by the famed Chettinad cottages of the area, will give the southern region a distinctive architectural character and offer a new depth to the terminal’s design. The architecture of the building will make frequent references to regional tradition and culture.
The building’s interiors use modern materials and textures to represent the colours and culture of the city. The new terminal will be a four-star GRIHA-rated, environmentally friendly structure.
The A-321 type of aircraft will operate at the airport as the widening, expansion, and strengthening work that is part of the airport development project makes it suitable.
The project also includes building a new ATC tower, a new technical block, a fire station, an isolation bay, and five aircraft parking bays for A-321 type aircraft. Tuticorin is the only airport in southern Tamil Nadu that is located after Madurai.
Improvements to the airport would not only satisfy local residents’ demands for improved passenger services, as well as foster trade and tourism in Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari, nearby districts, as well as Tuticorin.
The airport’s upgrade and expansion project is anticipated to be finished by December 2023.