AAI has taken up the task of upgrading Tuticorin Airport to cater the rising passenger traffic and demand for better services and connections. The up-gradation and development include the extension of the Runway for the operation of A321 type of aircraft, construction of a new apron, new terminal building, technical Block cum control tower and new fire station at cost of Rs 381 crores.
Tuticorin Airport New Terminal Building:
Spread over an area of 13500 sqm, the new terminal building will be able to handle 600 passengers during peak hours. The building will be equipped with all the modern facilities and passenger amenities with provision of two aerobridges along with car parking facilities and new approach road.
Inspiration from local culture and tradition: Chettinad Houses
Inspired by the famous Chettinad houses of the region, the intuitive form of the new terminal will create a unique architectural identity in southern region and will add a new dimension to the terminal design. Strong references to the local culture and traditional architecture will be expressed by the building’s architecture. The interiors of the building reflect the colors and culture of the city through materials and textures in a contemporary manner.
Sustainability:
The new terminal will be a four-star GRIHA rated energy efficient building with sustainability features.
Also Read: Kolhapur Airport to Get a New World-Class Terminal Building
Tuticorin Airport Development Project:
The airport development project also includes widening extension and strengthening work of existing runway, making airport suitable for operation of A-321 type of aircraft. Construction of new ATC tower cum technical block, fire station, isolation bay, and five aircraft parking bays to park A-321 type of aircraft is also part of the project.
Expected Completion:
The project for up-gradation and expansion of the airport is likely to be completed by December 2023.
Also Read: Kanpur Airport To Be Ready With World-Class Facilities by December 2022
Tuticorin Airport, Tamil Nadu
Tuticorin Airport (TCR) is a domestic airport located 16.9 km from Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, serving the districts of Tuticorin and Tirunelveli in southern Tamil Nadu. It is located 15.6 km west from the city centre on Tuticorin-Tirunelveli NH 7A. It is the fifth busiest airport in Tamil Nadu after Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirapalli and Madurai. Tuticorin is the only airport located beyond Madurai in southern Tamil Nadu region.
Up-gradation of the airport will not only fulfil the demand of local community for enhanced passenger services but will also promote trade and tourism in Tuticorin and neighbouring districts like Tirunelveli, Tenkasi and Kanyakumari.