Thoothukudi Airport's Major Upgrade Unlocked by PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the ₹381 crore redevelopment of Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) Airport, addressing a long-standing demand from industries investing in South Tamil Nadu. The upgrade is set to significantly boost regional connectivity and support the area’s growing industrial ecosystem.

The expansion marks a major leap in capacity and capability. Previously limited to ATR aircraft, the airport can now handle larger aircraft such as the Airbus A321, which seats up to 250 passengers. In a symbolic first, the Prime Minister’s wide-bodied aircraft—arriving from the Maldives—is set to be the first of its kind to land at the upgraded facility.

The new terminal building spans 17,341 square meters and features four entry gates, 21 check-in counters, seven baggage scanners, three aerobridges, 644 seats, and five aircraft parking bays. The airport’s passenger handling capacity has increased nearly ninefold—from 156 to 1,400 passengers per hour—and it can now manage five aircraft simultaneously.

This redevelopment is poised to enhance air connectivity across Southern Tamil Nadu, creating strong logistical support for regional industries and improving overall travel infrastructure.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.