Centre approves ₹1,507 crore airport at Kota-Bundi in Rajasthan

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its approval to a proposal by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the development of a new greenfield airport at Kota-Bundi in Rajasthan. This significant infrastructure project, with an estimated cost of ₹1,507 crore, is set to be a major boost for the region's connectivity and economic growth. The decision marks a crucial step toward improving air travel for a city that has emerged as a key center in the state.

The city of Kota, located on the banks of the Chambal River, holds a dual identity as the industrial capital of Rajasthan and a nationally renowned educational coaching hub. The city attracts thousands of students and professionals from all over the country, and the new airport is designed to address their growing travel needs and support the city’s continued expansion.

A substantial land parcel of 440.06 hectares has been provided by the Rajasthan government to the AAI for the construction of the new airport. The new facility will be a significant upgrade from the existing one, with the capacity to handle larger A-321 type aircraft. This will enable it to cater to a much larger volume of passenger and commercial flights.

The project’s detailed plan includes a modern terminal building with an area of 20,000 square meters, designed to handle 1,000 passengers during peak hours. The airport is projected to have an annual capacity of two million passengers. It will also feature a 3,200m x 45m runway, seven parking bays for A-321 aircraft, two link taxiways, an ATC cum technical block, a fire station, and a car park.

The need for a new airport became evident due to the severe limitations of the existing Kota airport, which is also under the AAI. The current facility has a very small runway, measuring just 1,220m x 38m, making it suitable only for smaller Code 'B' aircraft, such as the DO-228. The existing terminal is a mere 400 square meters and can handle only 50 passengers at peak hours, which is insufficient for the city's current needs.