AP Plans Nine Airports, Two Receive Central Site Clearance

Kuppam and Srikakulam Airport Development in AP

The Andhra Pradesh government’s plans to develop new airports at Kuppam and Srikakulam have taken a step forward, with the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation granting site clearance for both projects. The state government is now preparing to move ahead with the next stage of development.

The Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation Limited (APADCL) has submitted proposals to the state government on possible development models. Officials are examining whether the airports should be developed through a government-controlled model or a public-private partnership (PPP).

Once the development model is finalised, APADCL is expected to proceed with the necessary approvals and tendering process. The corporation is preparing to invite proposals from interested developers.

The state government has identified land for both airports as part of its wider aviation infrastructure expansion plan. Andhra Pradesh has proposed developing nine airports at an estimated combined cost of Rs 6,418 crore.

The proposed locations include Kuppam, Srikakulam, Nagarjuna Sagar, Tuni-Annavaram, Tadepalligudem, Ongole, Anantapur, Amaravati and Dagadarthi.

For Srikakulam Airport, officials have prepared a draft master plan covering approximately 1,185.56 acres. The first phase is estimated to cost Rs 750.52 crore, with the government targeting completion by 2030.

Authorities are considering different development arrangements, including partnerships involving the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the state government and private entities. A final decision on the model is awaited.

Kuppam Airport, proposed in Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s Assembly constituency, is estimated to require Rs 734 crore for its first phase. The state has identified around 1,788 acres, of which approximately 1,300 acres have already been acquired.

The project proposals include Rs 198.75 crore for land acquisition and Rs 146 crore for infrastructure. The estimated investment across both phases of Kuppam Airport is Rs 1,142.10 crore.

The site clearances mark an important regulatory step for the two projects. However, additional statutory permissions, financing arrangements and project approvals will be required before construction can begin.

The state government expects the proposed airports to improve regional connectivity and support economic activity in southern Andhra Pradesh and the north coastal districts.